"Weavers Words" Vol. 2 Iss. 110 Date Sent: April 08, 1999 Web Page: http://www.iei.net/~davidc/ Subscribers: 1007 David Collins 408 North Devon Avenue Indianapolis, IN 46219 317-899-5747 davidc@iei.net %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% Do You Like Weavers Words? Click Below To "Recommend-It" To A Friend! http://recommend-it.com/l.z.e?s=210339 %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% "Web Cards" - Create Full-Color Postcards For Your Web Page. http://www.printing.com/affiliate.asp?site=davidc For every free sample of "Web Cards" that you request from the above link, I will receive a $1 commission. It cost you NOTHING. Once you receive your free sample, you can purchase personalized "Web Cards" for your web page and/or business if you like. %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% Subject: WW - Poison Ivy Date: Wed, 31 Mar 1999 16:36:26 PST From: "Alice Edwards" To: jbenner@juno.com CC: davidc@iei.net Judy, I suspect that dried and dead vine was poison ivy or one of the other poisonous vines. The 'active agent' is an oil and might still have been present even when dried and dormant. Hopefully you are better by now or have gone to a Doctor. If not you could try over the counter cortisone cream/ointment and antihistamine such as Benadryl tonight. But, especially if you have sores on your face close to your eyes, you should go to a Doctor if you are still having trouble. There are prescription medicines that can help and some people are much more sensitive than others. I am going to send this to you now and copy David, who can include it then if he wants in the regular WW, but don't think the advice should wait for the next issue, just in case. Hope you are well by now and this isn't needed Alice Edwards in the Kansas City area %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% Subject: Slumpless in Sooke Date: Tue, 6 Apr 1999 22:45:32 -0700 From: "Anne Boquist" To: "Weaver's Words" I've been reading with interest all the chat about being in a slump. I've been in a slump for ages and have tried several things BUT...Today...a few days after responding to Sweet Sue and requesting to be a part of the Basket Swap, I sat down and wove all day and I'm very happy to say, have woven something swap-worthy. It's the first basket I've made in ages that I really like, I can hardly wait to send it off. I feel charged! I spoke to a native woman from Washington last summer, she told me that to be a true weaver you must give away lots of baskets. Your weaving will only improve when your spirit soars. Works for me! %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% Subject: Controversy Date: Wed, 07 Apr 1999 07:37:52 +0000 From: Tony Stubblefield or Dean Meredith To: David Collins References: 1 Hello, Lois - about patterns - As I thought, my comments stirred up some controversy. I have no problem with patterns per se. What I said was that I think patterns "can become a real crutch for weavers" especially new weavers. What I mean by this is that many people think they can only make a basket by following a specific pattern word for word and line by line. They think they must not make any variations and worst don't know how to make any adjustments. I guess I shouldn't say I "never" use a pattern because I do use them to learn new techniques. Believe me I still have to read the directions sometimes, I couldn't make a quadrafoil without one, but I know that I can make any size basket with any size materials even if it does say so in the pattern. Sorry if I offended anyone, especially weavers who make a modest living from writing and selling patterns. Tony Stubblefield St. Louis http://www.tetranet.net/users/deanandtony/baskets.htm %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% Subject: Re: "Weavers Words" V. 2 I. 109 Date: Wed, 7 Apr 1999 08:10:11 -0400 From: "Susan Tripp" To: "David Collins" I just want to say, I love patterns and do buy them. I hardly ever use them partly due to never having enough time and partly because I remember the picture and take off from that and do my own thing. I really enjoy seeing other people's creations. It always seems that when I do get around to making a pattern, I learn a different way of doing something which is fun in itself. There's lots of great weavers out there with great ideas. Attention WinterWeave '99 participants: To the person in Patty Hawkins' Japanese Spiral class who took my business card to send me the pattern of her purse she carried throughout the convention - PLEASE DON'T FORGET. I'm anxiously waiting. Thanks. Okay, now for last names. Try having "Tripp". I used to think it was a simple, harmless name. Now, thanks to Linda, that's not so. I told my husband if one more person asks me if I am any relation to "Linda", I'm saying: "Why, yes, she is my sister-in-law!" I can't believe the strangers that ask me that question - from grocery clerks who see my shopping card, to phone orders, to customers at work and even when I was being interviewed for a job, every interviewer asked me! When my husband comes home from work some day and there's a flood of reporters at the door, he will know I finally followed through on my threat and told someone I am related. Susan, no relation to Linda, Tripp in Upstate NY. %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% Subject: WW Date: Wed, 07 Apr 1999 12:11:10 +0000 From: Sandy Atkinson Organization: Atkinson's Country House To: David Collins Hi All, Finally getting back to normal (?) after the conventions. NC was very good as usual. Down in attendance, but great in spirit! Was hard to leave all the "spring" and come home to cold, but its been pretty nice here in Mich. this year. Thanks for showing Sharon and Larry such a good time in Indy. They were really wound up when they got home. Wow, did she ever get the nicest goody bag from IBA!! Lucky you all that went to Indy!! To Laurie and all others: Our new Heartland stain is in!!! It is so very nice. Oil based so the baskets stay nice and flexible. The odor goes away quickly. Nine colors we now have. The cans are $5.49 each. The colors are: Cherry Mahogany, Natural (clear), Classic Pecan, Colonial Maple, Early American Walnut, Fruitwood, Driftwood, Light Oak, Red Mahogany. We are making up color charts for those who are interested. They will be $2.00 each. I never measure any ribs for the rib baskets. Always just eyeball the size and that is the way I teach it. How creative you can get when you are not precise. Isn't that one of the great features about basket weaving, most baskets do not have to be exact! Also, another general tip is to add enough ribs to have them approx. 2 fingers widths apart or less. So glad to hear that John McGuire attended and spoke at the Indy convention. Hope he is doing OK. Spose' to rain but looks sunny out here in Michigan. Happy Spring, Sandy Atkinson %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% Subject: Misc. Date: Wed, 7 Apr 1999 07:29:14 -0700 (PDT) From: Carol Miller To: davidc@iei.net Hi all, Regarding convention sickness, sounds to me like the same sickness I get when my husband insists we go on vacation! I like to go home to my own surroundings. More than one night away from home and I feel exactly as you described (Pam W) without the basket convention. Judy- about small children's ability to learn, they take in a whole lot more than we are aware. For the longest time I was so upset with my pine needle work seemed I had an odd shaped spot here and there and it was not as tight as I like it. Decided I was working on it when I was too tired, then I caught my youngest son adding a few stitches of his handy work EARLY one morning. seemed he had thought it might be fun and had occasionally been adding stitches to my work for sometime. I had no idea he even paid any attention to what I was doing. The only time he gets into trouble is when it is an ordered basket and he is told not to touch it! To this day he helps out! Carol in Montana %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% Subject: Mistake Date: Wed, 7 Apr 1999 07:35:31 -0700 From: "Kathey Ervin" To: "David Collins" Hi everyone - sorry about my post in the last newsletter. Those were not my words but someone's from a previous posting and I was trying out her directions and put it in my outbox to mail letter and it mailed without me realizing it. But I finally understand how to read these postings and make notes along the way to respond to later. Good directions that maybe needed to be rerun for more than myself. Thanks! Kathey Ervin in Sequim where I've had my first cedar gathering of the season. Yippeeee!!!!!!!!! %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% Subject: Weaver's Words Date: Wed, 7 Apr 1999 07:35:36 -0700 From: "Pam Feix" To: "David Collins" Hi David and all!!! Hope you are all well and having nice weather. We are having beautiful weather here in southwest OH and I am just loving it. It looks like we will be mowing the yard sometime within the next week and I always look forward to that, as it starts the season off looking real nice. I am anxious to get some flowers planted, but I wait until May to do that. Pam Woodbury: I, too, would like to know if there are any other folks out there who have trouble with the air in hotels and if they get sick from them. I would love to go to other conventions, but I think if I do go, I will take my motor home, find a campground close by, and just attend the classes and such in the hotel. Maybe sleeping in "my" air would help, I don't know though. Thanks for sharing. Well, I haven't heard from anyone about where to buy the hand carved animals wholesale from, but sure have a lot of folks who also want to know, so if there is anyone out there who knows, please share this information with me, it is greatly appreciated. Donna and Angie: Pam W. is right, you don't have to have an "L" sounding name to have that question asked. I am sure that you must get it a lot more than I do though, am so sorry to hear that. You might find this interesting: I was at the IBA convention and the person in class next to me told me that she sells Longaberger Baskets. We got into a discussion about them and I, of course, had to offer my opinion of them being displayed for sale at art/craft shows. She told me that as a Longaberger representative/home party person, or whatever you call them, she had to sign a contract with them and that in the contract it states that they are not to set up at art/craft shows and that they are not even allowed to sell within so many feet of another person who sells baskets. I find that to be quite interesting. This person also told me, that they cannot say that they craft anything with Longaberger baskets, because in their contract it also states that when they do home shows or other sales where they are set up, only Longaberger baskets and their products are allowed to be displayed. I have written to the "L" company to find out what their actual policy is on this and when I find out, I will sure let you know. If this is true, and they let me know, I am sure going to show a few of the craft show coordinators in my area. I have been asked by my local high school academic boosters club to coordinate a fall/winter art/craft show. I am excited about doing it for them and hope that we can make a go of it. I won't have a date until next week, as we are waiting on the return of our Athletic Director, to know when the gym is available. If anyone has any suggestions, I could sure use them. I have a good idea of what needs to be done as far as booth space and stuff like that, but the food area and any other tips would sure be appreciated. Thanks to all of you. What a wonderful group of people basket weavers are!!!! I must get weaving, I have a show coming up April 17th. Happy Weaving to All!!! Pam Feix from southwest OH Feix Family Baskets & Crafts http://www.feixbaskets-crafts.com %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% Subject: Irish Weaving Date: Wed, 7 Apr 1999 09:57:16 -0500 (CDT) From: Kathryn M Gomm To: David Collins In answer to the question from Laurie Burns: Last year I had the opportunity to work with an Irish Weaver, Grainne Ui Mhaitsiu who was in the US to teach at Irish Fest Summer School in Milwaukee, WI. She said that she knew most of the "production" weavers in Ireland, and all of them work in willow. It is the easiest material to grow and use for them. Their style of willow weaving is very similar to the English style, with slight variations (that I saw). Grainne had a different upstake and used a different border, but it was easy to see what she was doing and copy it. If you would like more info, just let me know! Kathryn Gomm Milwaukee, WI %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% Subject: misc. Date: Wed, 7 Apr 1999 13:21:33 -0400 From: "Angie Longenecker" To: "David" Hi all, Pam Woodbury - NOOOO! Don't tell me that! I always thought (that most of it) was just ignorance and getting the name wrong. It's hard to believe people can't see the difference between a factory made basket and an original hand-woven basket. We need to educate people! I've stopped hedging when people ask me what I do for a living. I state proudly "I'm a basket weaver" and then laugh at 9 out of 10's reactions! It's actually good, most people start asking questions and I answer them and pull out a little photo book of my work (I don't go anywhere with out it any more!). Naomi in FL - Make sure your reed is nice and wet, place a ruler or spoke weight on top of the spokes. Bend the spokes gently against the side of the spoke weight. Push gently upwards as you weave the first several rows. RE: reed in plastic bags - any time reed is placed in a plastic bag (wet or dry) - do NOT close or tie the bag tightly. The reed will turn moldy. It's a beautiful day in PA and yesterday my kitten had her 3 kittens on my bed! Angie The Country Seat http://www.countryseat.com %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% Subject: Re: "Weavers Words" V. 2 I. 109 Date: Wed, 7 Apr 1999 13:44:13 -0400 From: "Donna" To: "David Collins" Pam W. - I know exactly how you feel and I've finally figured out something to do about it. I pinned it down to breathing recycled air all day long. We forget what kind of a "close" environment we're in when we go to conventions. When you go on vacation, you're in and out all the time. At a convention, you totally forget about the outside world. I now make a point to go outside for a few moments several times a day - just a short walk through the parking lot or around the hotel area but breath some fresh air into your system. People come to conventions carrying all kinds of bugs - they've signed up and paid for it and will show up no matter what they're "just getting over" or "just coming down with". Consequently, everyone they come in contact is a target for the "bugs" they are carrying with them. It doesn't matter what time of the year it is since hotels are all climate controlled. I would hope after the Legionnaire's outbreak some years ago, that all hotels are on top of keeping all the duct work clean - but I wouldn't bet on it. You figure the condensation that builds up in there promotes the growth of mold spores in the dust, this is then forced out through the systems by the fans constantly circulating the air. Not a pleasant thought, but certainly a reality. Ever since I got so sick a few years ago one August that I was barely at work for a month (a few hours, then I'd have to go lay down). It started with what seemed like a sinus infection, and ended up in my lungs. It literally took me until the week before Christmas, many, many Drs. visits, and many changes in meds until something would bring it under control. Since then, I'm very careful to remember to get out in the fresh air several times a day, all times of the year. Donna http://www.countryseat.com Check out our new online searchable catalog with shopping cart ctryseat@fast.net %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% Subject: Mini-Midi Date: Wed, 07 Apr 1999 16:00:48 -0400 From: Steve Steidel To: davidc@iei.net Thanks to everyone that emailed me with their suggestions on what word to use besides "mini". I think MIDI is the winner. I've officially changed my new pattern "Mini Lobster" to a revised edition called "MIDI LOBSTER BEAN POT" My Mini Fiesta Egg Baskets are going to stay "mini" for awhile - I've got too many patterns already printed. Thanks again for the interest. Fran Steidel %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% Subject: splitting reed, summer conventions Date: Wed, 07 Apr 1999 17:30:31 -0400 From: Winnie Organization: @Home Network Member To: David Collins Hi Everyone, Naomi asked about bending flat reed without having it break or split. I soak the reed well and place a bone awl against the outside of the reed, extending above the point where I'll be bending the reed. Use the awl to force the reed to bend. This sometimes prevents splitting, but some reeds are going to split anyway, just trim any ends. Kristin I live in Connecticut but my travel range for a convention is unlimited, I travel frequently. My time availability is basically June 23- Aug. 25, but I'll be doing vacation travel, to Egypt, during that time too. Winnie, enjoying the beautiful spring weather %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% Subject: bits and pieces Date: Wed, 7 Apr 1999 17:34:09, -0500 From: BDKE97B@prodigy.com (MRS BILLIE A DORRIS) To: davidc@iei.net Let's not start that pattern business all over again. Just accept that everyone works in a different way and one is no better than the other. If it works for you than that is what's right. Let's face it even though a Nantucket isn't done from a pattern it is set up by a certain formula of proportions etc. and after all that is basically a patttern, it just isn't written as one. No one has to defend themselves and their work. It would be a pretty dull place if everyone did everything the same. We need to remember that many of us weave at different levels and just because something is done differently or isn't a new idea that it is bad. Remember the saying that beauty is in the eye of the beholder and leave it at that. I am sorry to hear that more haven't signed up for the Handweavers Guild function at Arrowmont. It sounds really interesting and will be nice to have enough time with one person that you can really understand and not just parrot what they do. A friend and I have applied but I made her promise that if my husband had to be away on business the week after (because he has to stay home with the menagerie while I'm gone) she will help me set up for the upcoming show that weekend. I'll certainly need a rest afterwards as I'll have a 2 day show then leave on Tues. to come home on Sun/Mon for another 2 day show the coming weekend. This old creaky body doesn't take well to such punishment these days. I particularly hate the 5 am wakeup when I'm doing shows. Even my animals know I'm not very nice at that hour. Even after all the shows my husband and I have set up together it is never an easy process we just work at different speeds and levels and tend to "bicker" a bit. I finally point out that it is my booth and I'll do it the way I like. Nothing like being diplomatic. Better get a move on as I have to finish a penny Nantucket to send to my daughter in law in Japan as she needs it for a gift. Billie in warm, sunny V. Beach. %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% Subject: response to latest WW Date: Wed, 7 Apr 1999 18:56:01 EDT From: CHobbsNANA@aol.com To: davidc@iei.net Hi All, To the person wanting to find flat reed that doesn't crack when you are rimming-Some does, some doesn't. It is covered by the rim, so why worry about it? Luke and Willow Block plan to submit a big basket like a laundry basket. Yes, he and Willow were both cutting handles and rims with a draw knife. By the way, he buys all of his tools at used tool places or flea markets. Many have tried to get him to produce baskets faster with power tools, but he prefers to keep up the old traditions. In regard to the food carts at IBA, Pam, thank you for speaking your mind. I didn't have a hamburger, so I could not express that opinion. I enjoyed their prepared meat sandwiches, and their fruit. I thought the whole thing was very convenient. Being diabetic, I have to eat fairly regularly, and last year was difficult for me to get a meal in a hurry in the evening. "L" baskets are nailed together..(So are Nantucket's, but people who are talking about "L" baskets don't know that. Also, the weavers are so loose you can just move them up and down..A handmade basket probably has been packed a whole lot better. Someone recently gave me an "L" basket-said she thought I ought to have one. She was pleased, and thought she was doing me a favor. I appreciated the thought and the friendship. Poison ivy-three leaves say "I hurt you." 5 leave ivy says "I will not hurt you." It can be caught whether or not there are leaves on the vines. If you are around PI, wash well in a shower-do not take a bath where the water will be concentrated with PI. I made that mistake, and had to have cortisone to correct the problem. And my clown of a Dr said, "What have you been doing in the woods, Clare?" Time for me to go weave with a group of friends. Clare %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% Subject: Date: Wed, 7 Apr 1999 20:10:37 -0400 From: "Mary Hooper" To: "David Collins" Pam: Try $5 for a sandwich, chips, cookie and soda at NCBA. Wouldn't have been too bad but was I irritated when I asked for turkey and got ham. I did appreciate the convenience, so ate the ham and lived with it, but the mistake was one more in a long line by the staff of the NCBA hotel (Adam's Mark) in Charlotte. The saving grace is that no one has asked me to plan convention and to be sure that everything works properly and in good time every time. I'd like to take this opportunity to say THANK YOU to all the people who worked so hard on the NCBA convention and next year I plan to volunteer for the pattern room. And I promise not to complain about the food in Raleigh. If we had any guts, Pam, we'd take it back and voice our dissatisfaction, but we don't always have the guts, energy, spirit, time, or inclination to do that. Did you fill out the comment card or folder provided (probably) in your room? Come to think of it, if we complain too much, maybe no one will want us in their hotel! Now that's a thought to contemplate...... Mary Hooper %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% Subject: rims Date: Wed, 07 Apr 1999 20:13:00 -0400 From: Ruth Emberg To: David Collins Keener Clan, Lois I agree with you on the way to do flat oval rims. On flat oval rims, I have my students measure the circumference of the tucked basket with a tape measure, then add 3 1/2 " to the measurement. [They need to keep the tape snug when measuring.] Measure the flat oval rim on the FLAT side, and cut . Cut the inside rim 2" shorter than the outer one. While still dry, shave the ends, and then wet the rims, and clip into place. There is no lost time, and no excuse for using flat rims instead of flat oval. Ruth in beautiful green [at last!] PA %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% Subject: Silver Dollar City Date: Wed, 7 Apr 1999 20:21:19 EDT From: Wickrwoman@aol.com To: davidc@iei.net David, this makes the third time that I have tried to mail you this information about Silver Dollar City, Branson, Missouri basketry seminar. Each time I tried to hit the "send" button I ended up hitting the wrong key and wiping it all out. I wonder if the glass of wine I just slugged down after finishing our taxes could be the culprit? Anyway, if you are considering attending the seminar on May 21, 22, & 23, you must send in your registration by April 15, 1999!! The registration fee is $65, which entitles you to: (1) free admission to Silver Dollar City, the home of The Great American Music Festival, during that weekend (2) discount on merchandise (3) door prizes (4) bags (5) evening musical show in Echo Hollow (6) purchase additional SDC ticket for the family (at a reduced rate, I think). With over 60 classes offered for the very new beginning weaver to the extremely advanced, and with 25+ teachers from around the nation, you are sure to find something to your liking. If you haven't already received your brochure and because the deadline is so close, I would suggest a call to Donnie Ellison (this is a male) or Glenda Workman at (417)338-8232 for more information or to register. I don't know what they are planning for late registrations or anything else. I am enclosing a picture of my deer antler melon basket that I am teaching on Saturday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., for David to post so that you can all take a better look at it. Hope to see some of you there, please come up and introduce yourself. Everyone knows me as "The Wicker Woman," but I also answer to Cathryn Peters. ~~The Wicker Woman/Cathryn Peters/MN~~ http://albums.photopoint.com/j/AlbumIndex?u=16796&a=72533 %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% Subject: Wind Storm Settlement Date: Wed, 7 Apr 1999 20:41:50 EDT From: Wickrwoman@aol.com To: davidc@iei.net Thank goodness the contractors finally finished with the repairs/replacement to our building after the wind storm of June 1998, here in Minnesota. It was a very long haul with a very small crew doing the work. Since there was so much damage around here, construction crews were few and far between and swamped with work. Our insurance company, Safeco American States, was very nice company to work with and because of all the documentation that I did, settled well with us. The final inspection was on Friday and we should have the final settlement check this week. Take a look at my "Storm" picture album on PhotoPoint to see all the damage that was done. Will post more pictures of the restoration as I take them. ~~The Wicker Woman/Cathryn Peters/MN~~ http://albums.photopoint.com/j/AlbumIndex?u=16796&a=70788 %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% Subject: Longenberger baskets Date: Wed, 07 Apr 1999 18:47:20 PDT From: "ms. ann" To: davidc@iei.net Hi!! I'm not sure this how to respond to some things I have read in WW or not but here goes. As to "L" baskets. I have a great deal of respect for David L. and the company. If it weren't for this company, Dresden, Ohio would be a ghost town. The company employs many people from that area and also has a co-op program with local high schools. I don't think the baskets are the quality of a John McQuire or any of the other spectacular weavers in this country. However, I do think the company does serve a useful purpose. One other item. Have any of you thought of demonstrating basketmaking while doing a show? I don't do a lot of show because I don't have the time to build up an inventory. However, when I have done a show, I always ask if I can demonstrate during the show. It is a really excellent to show how people how a basket is made. Many people don't realize that baskets cannot be made by machine. %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% Subject: patterns Date: Wed, 7 Apr 1999 21:51:05 -0700 From: "Marc L. Ames" To: "David Collins" I just have to add to the controversy, er, discussion --- I think patterns are a tool, just like anything else we basketmakers employ. There is nothing inherently evil, or magical, about them. I find they have their convenience and their place. I like to teach classes that empower students to go further by teaching them weaving techniques and the skills for figuring out their own measurements, but often what students want is a recipe class, and most beginners want that pattern, big time. I often provide brief "class notes" that capture the essentials, but I also tell my students that when I take the time to develop a pattern for the class, two things happen: 1) the cost of the class goes up, and 2) I learn more than they do. But patterns with precise measurements have definite benefits: I used a pattern recently written by someone who makes production baskets (many of one type.) I was in a hurry and just didn't want to be bothered with figuring out how many, how wide, how long, how far apart, even though this was a simple flat reed basket. What I discovered was that I had no wastage at the end, everything had been carefully thought out, so that when I was done weaving, I just tucked. My eyeball figuring often has "a little extra, just in case" thrown in. So there is the added step of trimming, and sometimes I estimate incorrectly, so there is a "design change" part way through to compensate for spokes too short or spacing too narrow, etc. I can see how it would be very handy to streamline the process by following a good pattern if one were doing a lot of production work. I have a friend who made the most exquisite egg baskets from reed, in half a dozen different shapes and sizes, often very large, with nearly invisible turning back, very uniform in shape, etc. I found out that she had woven them for so long, fine tuning her process, that she had worked out formulae for the length and number of spokes, exactly when and where to insert them, how many rows of round reed at the beginning, exactly what spoke to begin on, to join on and to turn on, etc. etc., even just where to put the color accent rows for most pleasing balance. Once she had developed them to her satisfaction she rarely deviated. She was after a certain look and level of perfection for each of her baskets, so she effectively engineered that in, and it worked very well for her. Me - I wing it each time when I make rib baskets. No two alike, but also none as elegant and refined as hers. I do agree that a market basket is a market basket, as someone else wrote. After some familiarity with how they go together, a weaver should be able to "figure out" how many, how wide, how long, how far apart... to yield a desired finished product. The exercise can be rewarding, challenging, instructive, especially the first few times. There will be "Aha"s as you figure out why something is done a certain way in the patterns you have used before, why you need an even (or odd) number of spokes, why a certain weaving technique is needed. You will never forget those concepts if you have discovered the whys for yourself. When faced with designing a basket, I often will haul out books and patterns to do a little research first, especially for color accent design ideas, because on flat reed baskets I have a tendency to want to incorporate TOO MUCH stuff, too much color, or too busy design, or too fancy weave, when plain and simple is often best. After all, I keep reminding myself, it is a very coarse grid in which to squeeze all those ideas (e.g. 5 spokes wide by 7 spokes by twelve rows of weaving) compared to say a round reed twined basket with lots of spokes and rows, and much smaller stitches. I study pictures looking for a pleasing effect and force myself to stick with the "simple is best" theme. Recently I wanted to teach a simple round basket with flat spokes and weavers, to beginners in a given amount of time. I looked through books and patterns to find time-savers and the most simple beginning. I could think of several ways to make the basket, and discovered several other ideas too, and evaluated all of them for the purpose at hand: a quick and easy base for a class for beginners, with quickly woven sides and a striking accent of colored weavers (done late in the project so they don't get bogged down by color choice agonies). My dilemmas on designing the base went like this: Go with even number of spokes and twine? (slow to build fabric), chase weave? (Not the easiest), stop and start? (Hard with flat weavers in the round on a base), skip over two spokes at end of row? (Tricky concept for beginners, will be noticeable), Japanese weave? (Forget it!), or use continuous weave and go with uneven number of spokes by adding extra spoke (where to add it?), cut one spoke out (where to cut one out?) or split one spoke into two (always shows a bit, and split reed is rough) or start with one extra wide spoke but trim one half down and split the other half in two (not quick and needs to be neatly done). Lots of thinking for a simple basket that I knew how to make. Again, I learned a lot more than I expected to. I no longer collect patterns avidly. But I do love to read them - some gem of an idea could be lurking in a seemingly plain ol' market recipe. For anyone who has never tried to design their own basket, I say, make it your millenium project: give it a try, using the skills and knowledge you already have, throw in a little research, and have a goal or purpose in mind. You will be pleased when you succeed and you can tell us all about it on WW! Soap box relinquished. %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% Subject: NCBA Date: Thu, 8 Apr 1999 01:33:31 -0700 From: "judy" To: "David Collins" David, Thanks again for a job well done. Jill C. You can contact NCBA through Susanna, at susybasket@aol.com To the Classy Lady I meet at the NC convention thank you. It was nice to put a face to the name , I have enjoyed reading your posts.(keep up the good work) Remember we all have opinions!!!!!!!!! Jill B.: Glad to have you join us. I am gathering up your care package now. Billie: So glad to meet you in person .You are the nicest thing since Karo Syrup was invented.:) :) I think everyone had a good time at the convention, but there were to many other events going on at the same time. Maybe Raliegh will be better. The fellowship was great. Old friends, new friends. It was nice to see them all. If the Ladies that wanted me to send them the spoke measurements for Egg Basket, would please email me I will send them right away. Lost your email address. Judy Sanford NC %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% Subject: Wisconsin Date: Thu, 08 Apr 1999 08:39:43 -0400 From: dan Organization: ggconcepts To: David Collins Hello everyone. We will be in Wisconsin April 25 through May 2. I can help make the schedule. I will be traveling with my husband on one of his business trips. I will also have the car. So I am looking for any shops and or classes during this week. We need to be in Madison,( 2 days) Racine, Milwaukee, Kenosha and other places if I find shops or classes. Could someone let me know what is going on. I had another class Tuesday, 3 people, one 70 old lady that I had make a beginning wall basket, she had a blast. and 2 other people. I like small classes because I make baskets right along with them. SO it is fun for everyone. Has anyone ever painted just the handle and stained the rest of the basket. I want to try one or two to see how they come out. Any suggestions? More later Gretchen Where a very nice stray (dumped dog) has adopted this as home. I have to find a new home, 5 cats and 2 dogs is one 2 many dogs. I can't seem to find a home for this dog. %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% Subject: Re: "Weavers Words" V. 2 I. 100 Date: Thu, 8 Apr 1999 09:26:59 -0500 From: tblack@iquest.net To: David Collins Hello everyone! I feel like I am finally becoming part of the world again. IBA Convention is over and things seem to have gone fairly smoothly. At least no one said much around me!) Just trying to wrap up the last details, pay bills, go through evaluations, etc. Fun, fun, fun. And just think, I agreed to do this again in 2001. Am I stupid or what? Just kidding Dollie and Lynn;) I am behind about 12 WW but have to respond as I go or I'll never do it. Carol Miller- Natural dyes on Easter eggs. I know it's a bit after the fact, but save this for next year... In one of my cookbooks there are several natural ways to decorate Easter eggs. Some of the suggestions: for RED use beets, red cabbage or strawberries. To make YELLOW or ORANGE, use onion skins or marigolds. Use spinach for GREEN. Blueberries for BLUE. Use tea or coffee for subtle shades of brown. To dye: Combine item (such as beets) with water, about 1:2 . Simmer over low heat until water becomes a dark shade of the deisred color (about 20-30 minutes). Add some vinegar to dye (for the beets it suggested 4 c. beets, 8 c. water, 2 T. vinegar). Dip egg into dye, turning it occasionally until you've reached the desired color. Also suggests applying glue in patterns to egg and then rolling egg in dried herbs or spices. You can also place a brightly colored spice, such as paprika or curry, in a bowl, add water so you reach paint consistency, then paint the egg. Another idea was to hold a leaf against the egg and let the egg sit in a tea dye. You get the impression of the leaf on the egg. The pictures looked really cool of all these. Next year when my kids are old enough not to make too HUGE of a mess I think I'll try these. Carolyn (?) asked about a Flower girl basket for a wedding. I have woven some and used a pattern adapted by a friend from Sue Canafax's flower basket. It's in Sue's book In The Pink. Just scale down appropriately. Denise from BC - Welcome! Where in BC are you located? I have family on Vancouver Island in Victoria, Parksville, and Port Alberni. I know those are all interior, but it's only a couple hours across the island anyway. Or Are you on the mainland, just WAY up north? Winnie - dyed reed in the DRYER??!! You must have been really desperate. that would be new reason for my husband to blame me for turning his undershorts pink! Kudzu Karen - I have used raffia by braiding it and then stitching it into the desired shape. Judith Mishler in Northern IN makes wonderful hats and shoes out of raffia. You can also use it as your stitching when doing coiling (like pine needles...) although heart of palm or artificial sinew work better, I think. Marilyn Moore does some beautiful tenneriff work with raffia (I think I spelled that right). Yet one more thing to learn to do in the lifetime... Kathy in KY - mosaics. Cheap tiles - try your tile store. They often have odd lots or discontinued pieces that they will part with for a song. Have you ever tried broken dishes? I did a tabletop a few summers ago with broken dishes. It came out really cool! Got most of them a garage sales for a stack for a quarter. Tony - about teaching out of state - check into the organizations/conferences details. IBA convention pays travel and a teacher stipend. the student then pays a material fee direct to you. When we have someone come for a local guild, someone often "hosts", so at least lodging is free. Also, enjoy your potbelly mold! I made one of those baskets with Jim 2 years ago. What fun! He is an excellent instructor and funny in class. Lois - Shaving rims while dry is a lot easier than doing it while wet with the stanley planers. The grate clogs up fast when the reed is wet and I find it hard to get a nice thin scarf. I always shave one end first anyway, then soak it, form it on the basket, then let it dry. This way I don't have to fight the rim any more than I have to. Once dried, I shave the other end. Pam F.- No I'm not mad. The comments about the food need to be known by those who can help. Just be aware, that in past years the situation was as bad as described by some at NCBA, or last year, it was an all inclusive price regardless of what you got ($8). This year we got the a la carte pricing because of the feedback from the evaluations. We also added the dinner carts because of that. Sales were brisk and the hotel was pleased overall. Menus can be adjusted if the food is less than desirable. We are already planning to ditch the pizza, I think, (bleh), but definitely keep the lasagna (yum). Each year continues to improve so don't dog it all in one fell swoop. Keep in mind the comments about the campground of years ago, and some things like the dry air and costly burgers fall into perspective. Wow! I made it! I finally caught up on these issues of WW. I took me almost 5 hours, but I made it. Tomorrow morning will come very early... Sorry for the length, but one more note: Jill Choate - Hey, I've finished my basket but what do I do with the goodies in the ziploc baggie? How do I attach the foot thing? I know I would have learned this in class if I had actually been there... Happy Weaving all, Carolyn Black, in central Indiana where it's been 70 and gorgeous for several days now and my daffodils are in full bloom and the early tulips are blooming as well. %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% Subject: Re: "Weavers Words" V. 2 I. 109 Date: Thu, 08 Apr 1999 10:47:11 -0400 From: James & Diane Langston Organization: Di's Heaveny Treasures To: David Collins References: 1 Dear David, Please try to fit this reply in if you can, I have sat back long enough. Thanks. To Pam Feix: You made a comment that sometimes things need to be said. You have no idea how many times that I have wanted to say something to you, but I have held back, hoping that you would see the light on some issues. You have made a statement that my animals could not be afforded by you, because the retail price is to high, this statement does not put Di's Heavenly Treasures at the top of anyone's list now if they were thinking of ordering animals from us. Frankly, I think that you would be able to afford them since you have cut my price in half on our ORIGINALl "The Promise" finished basket. I have been making them for years, and the quality of my finished basket far surpasses yours. You also purchased 1 of our original designed base and deck for the medium size and then that size appeared on your web site and it under priced us $2.00. There are other things that you have changed a bit and prices that you have copied right from our price sheet, and then under priced each of our items a few cents. Now since our business has slowed down, because of you and others like you. Now you want the animals and I am sure that eventually you will be under pricing us on these things as well. I am a nice person, I have always tried to go the extra mile for a customer, And we have always tried to be fair. We have designed new baskets every year to please our customers, but we have grown so weary of the copying, that it has taken the heart right out of us. I could not be so bold to say these things to you or anyone.....but like you, some things just need to be said. I do not want to hurt you, I just want you to know that you (and others) have hurt me, and other original designers. This is America and you have every right to have your own business. All that I am saying is that sometime basketry has to change!!!! We all talk about how everyone changes one thing and then it is legal. But how is it really? Ethically I mean. Some things are original! no matter how many different names are put on it. What has happened to us, when did basketry become so cutthroat! It used to be that if anyone wanted to teach your basket they asked permission. By the same token, shouldn't you ask permission to carry our original wood parts for our design? And shouldn't it have been kept the same price, instead of under pricing someone $2.00 on an item? I am so grieved and sickened at what we have become. We copy parts and patterns and the original designers are quitting. We have to many patters that never get sold, because they are run off or they have been rewritten in their own words! Quit lying to yourselves. Legal is one thing. But what happened to offering our support to the art of basketry! Pam, I have not met you and you sound like a nice person. So I ask your forgiveness if I have offended you but the truth is still the truth. I too, want to be liked, no one wants to be hated. I hate no one. It's just like you said something's need to be spoken of if we want things to change. Jim & Diane of "Di's Heavenly Treasures" %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% Subject: Fwd: New Info on 2nd Minnesota Guild Date: Thu, 8 Apr 1999 11:05:20 EDT From: Wickrwoman@aol.com To: davidc@iei.net I'm sorry everyone, but the membership contact person I sent is incorrect, it's from last year. Our new membership contact person should read: Robin Fladebo, 8883 Fountain Lane North, Maple Grove, MN 55311 612/420-6959 Email: s_lebahn@minn.net Sorry for the mistake, won't happen again! ~~The Wicker Woman/Cathryn Peters/MN~~ %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% Subject: Silver Dollar City Registration Date: Thu, 8 Apr 1999 15:02:25 EDT From: Wickrwoman@aol.com To: davidc@iei.net Hi Everyone, I just spoke to Glenda Workman, one of the coordinators of the Silver Dollar City, Branson, Missouri basketry seminar to clear up some of the confusion I have heard about the registration. Glenda said to disregard the registration date of April 15, because the brochure was four weeks late coming out. The printer had several problems, although I thought the final product was wonderful, and because of this, they are leaving the registration date open for some time. Another misunderstanding was in regard to the teachers and vendors paying the $65 registration fee and mailing in the form. This requirement refers to the students only, not the teachers, vendors or helpers that are not taking classes. Classes are listed in blocks of time, and if your class finishes early or takes a little longer, there is no problem. The blocks were, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10, I think. For example, my antler melon class is set for 6, but will probably take 7-8 and my cane footstool is also set for 6 but will probably be done in that time or less. There are always kinks to iron out in the "first" of anything, but this looks to be a winner! Spread the word to help make this a terrific experience and one that will continue for years. ~~The Wicker Woman/Cathryn Peters/MN~~ http://albums.photopoint.com/j/AlbumIndex?u=16796&a=72533 %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% Subject: NC Convention Date: Thu, 8 Apr 1999 18:23:31 -0400 From: Chris & Melissa Kile To: davidc@iei.net Could someone please post information on the NC Convention? That is the only one close enough to me. I'd love to go to the ones in the Midwest, maybe when my kids get older and move out..... Thanks a bunch. Melissa in windy, warm Riner, VA %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% Subject: Weavers Words Date: Thu, 08 Apr 1999 18:30:31 PDT From: "Alice Edwards" To: davidc@iei.net Hi Everybody, Congratulations David on membership topping 1000. You are obviously doing something right. I feel guilty cause I've been so quiet, but have really been enjoying reading all the issues. Please remember I think of all of you often. Hope I didn't leave too much out, this seems to long already. Anything else will have to go in the next letter. If I have missed anything directed to me, feel free to e-mail me direct. My husband and I are in the process of buying a house, (GRIN-a really big one you notice!) and it has been really wild around our place lately. I am hoping to move in May, before Missouri convention and the usual June madness associated with helping run a book sale for the friends of the library. I am excited about moving, but not looking forward to packing, unpacking and organizing. Especially organizing all my basket weaving stuff again. Darla - Thanks for the tip about dyeing reed in Ziploc bags. I can sympathize with your hassle. I have always been super careful about dyeing reed, since I am in rental housing, and I am going to try the bags. Sounds like a neat idea that I might use even after I move into my own house. Lately I have just bought dyed reed for the colors I wanted. I've especially enjoyed some 1/4"FF and #3 RR that I bought in bundles of mixed colors. Leigh - 'a pine cone stain'??? Was I napping? Do you mean a stain made from pinecones? If so does the kind of cone matter and how do you fix it? And while I'm admitting my ignorance, why so much ammonia when making the sweet-gum stain compared to walnuts? Diane in Kansas - I don't think the search is limited to the subject line. I have found things that were only in the body of the message. Books - I have the Sally Goymer book about Willow in hardback and have enjoyed reading it. Since the classes I took from Marlys Sowers (great, but I am going to stop signing up for more than one class a weekend!) were my first experience with willow I have been a lurker in the world of willow. By the way Bert, this is the book I suddenly remembered I never sent you the full title and author for that Marlys mentioned in the class. I got my copy from one of my regular suppliers, and if a book is recently unavailable it is worth checking places like Country Seat and others to see if they still have copies on hand. Kay Harradine - thanks for the link to the teacup shaped baskets. Wow! I really enjoyed seeing them. Darleena - Yes, I sympathize! Although I agree that she probably thought it was a compliment. It seems to me that the concept of craft-persons who work for themselves escapes most people nowadays. Why the world seems to think that someone with skill and talent would want to work for a big company instead of themselves is beyond me. I think the "L" baskets are boring by comparison to the baskets our members produce. Just take a look at the wonderful pictures on the web-site. Oops, I'd better be careful or I'll be up on that soapbox again. Naomi - No guarantees about avoiding cracking. But the first thing that seems to help is to be sure that you have the 'good' or smooth side of the reed on the outside of the bend. This is the reason that most instructions tell you to mark the rough side and put it up when weaving the base. I still find it wise to test for the good/bad side by bending the reed after dampening it. Just bend it an inch or so from the end. If it is the rough side it will splinter, the smooth side should splinter/fray much less if at all. Then make sure it is damp and let it mellow or rest a few minutes. These hints help with up-setting the stakes for the sides and again when tucking. I usually spray the stakes on both inside and outside, then wait a few minutes, spray again, then wait a few minutes more. Sometimes flat reed just seems to crack when bent, this is what I do to keep it to a minimum. If a stake cracks/frays too much when I test it, I usually just replace it. I used to think it just wasn't damp enough, but lately the 'mellowing' seems to help more than extra moisture. Remeber you are all in my thoughts and prayers. Happy Weaving from Alice Edwards in the Kansas City Area %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% If for any you would ever like to cancel your subscription, simply send me a message with "unsubscribe" as your subject.