Threads 114: Basketry for display
This basket is a charming and unconventional piece, perfect for displaying fruit year-round or even squash during the Thanksgiving season. Its distinctive long, skinny shape, formed by two intersecting forked branches, makes it a conversation starter on any dining table. The weaving process begins at both ends and works towards the center, creating a sturdy and aesthetically pleasing display piece.
Gathering Your Materials
The foundation of your basket lies in finding the right forked branches. Look for two branches that are roughly the same size and have a "Y" shape, allowing them to interlock nicely. You can find suitable branches from various shrubs like spirea or wild willow, but don't limit yourself – use whatever fresh or dry forked branches you can source. The beauty of this basket is its organic, found-material aesthetic.
In addition to your branches, you'll need:
Twist ties: To secure the initial frame.
Stakes: You'll need 4-5 stakes to insert into the frame as you weave. These provide the vertical structure for your basket.
Fine weaver material: For the actual weaving. Fine willow or purchased round reed are excellent choices. If using a purchased reed, you might consider dyeing it brown to match the natural aesthetic of the branches.
Constructing the Frame
Once you have your two forked branches, it's time to build the frame for your basket. Carefully position the two branches so their "forks" interlock and create a flat, stable base. This intersection will form the central part of your basket. Using twist ties, securely attach the branches where they meet. Ensure the connection is tight and the frame feels stable, as this will dictate the overall shape and integrity of your finished basket.
The Weaving Process: Working from Both Ends
The weaving of this basket is unique because you'll be working simultaneously from both ends, meeting in the middle. This technique requires a bit of patience and attention to detail.
Initial Weaving and Stake Insertion: Begin by taking your fine weaver material. Start at one end of your frame, just past the secured intersection of the forked branches. Begin to weave a few rounds around the forked branch, creating the initial base of your basket. As you weave these first few rounds, immediately insert your first central stake into the weaving and weave over and under.
Repeat at the Other End: Once you've completed a few rounds and inserted two more stakes on either side of the central stake and weave a few more rounds. Depending how wide you want your basket, will depend on how many stakes you insert.
Adding More Stakes and Shaping: Continue to weave from both ends, gradually adding more stakes, if neccesary.
Joining in the Center: When you've woven about a third of the way in from both ends, you'll reach a crucial point: the stakes from each side need to be joined together. Do this by fitting the ends from one side into the other side and continue weaving to the centre.
Final Touches and Considerations
It's important to note that if you've used fresh willow or other green materials for your weaving, they will shrink slightly as they dry. This natural shrinkage might require you to fill in any small gaps that appear at a later date to maintain the basket's tight weave and appearance.
Enjoy your unique, handcrafted fruit display basket!