•Flat reed, flat oval reed, and other reed shapes
These are strips of reed that are flat on both sides (flat), flat one one side and oval on the other (flat oval), or some other shape (such as oval on both sides), available in varying widths. Flat reed is particularly suitable for connectors.
Tools
Basket making is a manual activity—your hands will be your most important tool! You can start with the basic tools and add more pieces to your collection later. You will find many of these tools in general craft stores, but some of the more specialized basket-making tools may only be carried by basket-making shops or suppliers.
Basic tools
•A basin large enough to soak the rattan/reed weavers.
•A spray bottle to constantly keep the work wet.
•Towels (1) to wipe the work and protect you from water.
•A pair of pruning shears (6) or a peeler to cut the weavers. Alternatively, you can use a pair of cutting pliers.
•An awl (9) can be purchased in various sizes to part the weavers and make holes.
•A ruler (13) or a measuring tape (14) measures your weavers and controls the proportions of the object to be made.
•A pair of scissors (10), paper, pens (4), clips (7), paintbrushes (3), masking tape (2), and other household supplies will help you with sketches and decorative finishes.
Additional tools
•A reed measuring tool (12) or gauge allows you to check the diameter of round reed.
•A peeler is used to cut protruding weavers flush.
•A small billhook (8) or pruning knife is a tool with a wooden handle and curved blade used to cut, split, and notch rattan/reed.
•A reed packing tool (5) is a heavy tool used to pack the work to tighten the finished weave.
•Pliers (11) help to bend the spokes.
•A weight placed on the base of an object stabilizes the object while working.
•Templates, made with wood, nails, and a hammer, can shape an object.
Optional material
•A premade plywood base, wooden or metal hoops, and/or a structure or frame, such as a vase, can give your work a defined shape.
•Wooden beads, leather straps, etc., can enhance your creations.
Preparation
The projects in this book are divided into five chapters and are presented at varying difficulty levels. Choose a simple project to get started and set aside enough time to complete it. If you run out of time, you can divide the project into several phases. Read all the steps for a project before you start working, and refer to the information here in the front of the book if necessary.
Workspace
Set up in a clear space with all your tools at your fingertips. Small items can be created either on a table or on your lap. Protect the table or floor with a tarp/ cloth and your knees with a towel.
Having a good working posture is essential in basket making. It is crucial that you feel comfortable and at ease while working. Posture can also affect the quality of a work in progress. It is important to be able to freely rotate the object in all directions while you work. Pay attention to your hand position and take regular breaks to avoid fatigue.
Choosing and preparing the rattan
Choose the quality and diameter of the rattan/reed according to its use: very thick for framework, thick for spokes, and thinner for weaving. For a simple basket, for example, use at least 2 diameters: a thicker one for the spokes and a thinner one for the weavers. For a project requiring the use of a premade wooden base, you must adjust the diameter of the spokes to match the diameter of the holes in the base. The total amount of rattan/reed required depends on the size of the object and the finishes chosen.
Before you start to weave, cut out all your spokes per the recommended size. Remove blackened parts, if there are any. Set aside the weavers that you will use for the longest weaves.
For each project in this book, we specify the quantity and diameter of rattan/reed used as well as the length of the spokes.
Generally, to calculate the length of the spokes, you must consider the following:
•the length required to attach the spoke to the base or to use the spoke for both base and walls,
•the height of the object that you wish to make,
•the border chosen, since a more complicated border requires more material.
If you want to modify the dimensions or create your own project, you can base your calculations on these factors and the sizes given in this book. But be prepared—it is better to have too much rattan/reed and cut the spokes too long than to not have enough! You can always trim your spokes and weavers after weaving.
Dyeing
Before you weave them, you can stain weavers in a hot bath using natural textile dyes. Most rattan products, including reed, are porous and easily take on color.
When dyeing with powdered textile dyes, the amount of product you need will vary according to the desired color level (for example, you might use dye in a quantity of 5% of the weight of the material to be dyed). You can also vary the amount of water (e.g., 20 times the weight of the material).
Mix the color in a small amount of hot water in a large pot dedicated to dyeing. Add the remaining water and salt (1 tablespoon per 10 liters). Mix well and add the rattan/reed (after pre-soaking it in clear water). Allow it to boil for 30 to 45 minutes while stirring well. Let the mixture cool in the dye bath for 30 minutes. Rinse well and allow to dry before use.
For more information about natural dyeing, check out books on the subject. One of the easiest substances to acquire and use is walnut stain. Mix the dye with water according to the desired hue and soak the rattan/reed in it. For a light color, you can use lukewarm water. Remove the weavers when the desired color is achieved: Allow 15 to 30 minutes for a light dye and several hours for a darker hue. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Soaking
Rattan