About Carol Antrim Expertise I can answer most questions about basketry techniques, and how to or where to find instructions/instructors. Also most questions about the materials used in basketry, either preparation and/or sources. I cannot answer questions regarding value or appraisal of baskets. Nor can I address questions about locating cheap wholesale baskets for gift basket businesses, or how to fill such baskets or conduct such businesses.
Experience I have been weaving baskets since 1986. Studied with Native American basket makers from several Woodland tribes as well as with teachers from coast to coast and Canada,Japan and Russia. Have taught basketry in Indiana, Ohio, New York, Montana, Michigan and Tennessee. Had acceptances in shows and won awards in Indiana, Ohio, and Michigan, including purchase awards to the permanent collection at Minnetrista Cultural Center. Twice had baskets at the Indiana Governor's residence in the Indiana Arts and Artist Program, and was in 'Innovation--Baskets and Beyond' an invitational at The Firehouse Gallery in Damariscotta, Maine in 1999. My work can be viewed at http://cantrimbaskets.com/
Organizations Member of the Virtual Basketmakers Guild http://home.sprynet.com/~cpantrim/
and the Indiana Basketmakers Association http://www.indianabasketmakers.com/
Basketry - how and when to do step ups when triple twining
Expert: Carol Antrim - 2/2/2001
Question I started making baskets about a year ago and love it. I have found a few books, but they don't explain the proper way to step up when triple twining. I know when I am coming to the starter spoke I need to do a "step up" to continue the pattern. Do I start the step up on the spoke before the starter?
Answer Hi Terri, I think you have it but just to be sure, here is how I teach it in class to right handers...If you need the lefty version, just let me know...
Triple Twining
Begin by inserting three weavers, each behind three consecutive stakes. (Mark the stake furthest to the left with an X).
With the weaver furthest to the left, weave over 2 and under 1 towards the right.
Pick up the new furthest left weaver, go over 2, under 1 towards the right.
Continue in the same manner with each “far left” weaver until you return to X. (DO NOT go behind X)
To End Row (Step up)
With the weaver immediately to the left of the X stake, weave over 2 and under 1.
Pick up the weaver to its immediate left (not the “far Left”) and weave over 2, under 1.
Now repeat with the “far left” weaver. Your weavers are now in place to begin a new row.
