Frame willow baskets – third Hjornholm class 2013

 Also a two-day class we enjoyed making frame baskets of different styles, sizes and designs. Furthermore a few students who didn’t make it into our “Baskets on a Catalan Base” class were making a purse on a Catalan base during this class. 

Anne Mette taught us the basics of making big rings of willow for the hoops of the baskets. Most of us succeeded somewhat with the rings, but when any of us had a challenge, Anne Mette’s strong hands and expertise from making hundreds of these rings quickly and seemingly without much effort magically fixed the ring.

For the rings I had cut some fresh rods of Salix dasyclados that has not been cut down the last two years and now have the strength, flexibility and tension that make for good rings. The rods had been cut 2 weeks before the class and were stored in the shade behind the barn.

                                                     

Cathryn working concentrated on her beautiful tray and in front of the barn with the finished product. Great job!

These four baskets are basically the same although the shapes vary from almost round to oval and the sizing is different. The basket to the right has a random weave which looks very beautiful and will be finished off with bands of willow bark woven in between some of the willow.

As I mentioned in my earlier postings about Anne Mette’s classes here, it was a delight to watch how Anne Mette is able to cater to the needs of both the beginner and more experienced willow basket weaver. I believe that everyone went home full of inspiration and with some new skills learned.