Monday, February 14, 2011

Baskets 101

I was shopping for everyday type mini baskets online...didn't find what I wanted except beautifully woven ones that didn't fit my purpose.  So I decided, while reading Casey's blog and her posts on baskets (awesome tips, tutorials and photos!), to learn how to weave some myself.  A basket tutorial by Lesley Shepherd was also very helpful to me.  The first and second attempts came out okay...they're made from unwaxed, white linen thread, cotton-covered wire and Minwax stain.  The lighter basket was dipped in stain once, the darker was dipped twice in the same color stain.




And finally, I've waxed and buffed the top of the low table destined for the washitsu.  I wanted it to look like a family heirloom that was lovingly cared for through the generations.


I hope I've passed the test for beginner's basket weaving (and beginner's furniture making, as well).  Casey and Lesley, thanks for your help!!

p.s. Have a great Valentine's Day!!

10 comments:

  1. Those look great!!!Isn't basket weaving fun? And adictive.... Keep up the good work!

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  2. Casey, I'm hooked! Hope to tackle a coil basket soon. Thanks again for sharing your expertise!!

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  3. Enhorabuena por esas preciosas cestitas.
    El envejecimiento de la mes te ha quedado fantastico.
    besitos ascension

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  4. More than pass the master, Alison! Those baskets are fabulous! Th stains came out so well too!

    That table is indeed an heirloom piece :). I think I can see from the legs, that you didn't use any nails in its creations :). So you used the peg method? I have this mini wooden bench made the same way and a mini stool made in the tongue and groove method. I love them like this , both mini and life size ones :).

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  5. Ascension, a big hug for you, you are so kind!! Hope you had a great Valentine's Day.

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  6. I love weaving, Sans, believe you will, too!
    Can't wait to do more...

    You're right, legs are glued in square insets carved into tabletop with a flat top Xacto blade. I'm far from creating fancy joinery...so much to learn :)

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  7. Thanks for the links of tutorials. Your baskets are very nice and well done!! Alison, you will start the oval one soon I believe! :o) Hugs, Peiwen

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  8. My pleasure, Peiwen! Happy that you like the baskets :) Would love to do more but must get back to work on the washitsu...Hugs back at you!

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  9. Well Done Alison, I may have to give that basket making a go myself. I think I have 15 or 20 minutes of free time in my day at the moment.

    The wee table looks super!

    Cheers,

    Tom

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  10. Wow, Tom, you're busy!! I'm totally hooked on weaving. With the proper supplies the possibilities are endless!! I appreciate your approval of the table...means a lot :)

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