"Weavers Words" Vol. 2 Iss. 24 Compiled By: David Collins Snail Mail: 408 North Devon Avenue Indianapolis, IN 46219 Owned By: Weavers Everywhere Date Sent: August 10, 1998 Subscribers: 720 {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} ***IMPORTANT INFORMATION*** ***PLEASE READ BEFORE PRINTING*** 1.) Highlight entire issue. 2.) Click copy. 3.) Paste issue into a word processor of your choosing. 4.) Now Print. {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} +++++Individual Weaver's Words Pages+++++ Of course you can always find links to each individual page on Weaver's Words home page (http://www.iei.net/~davidc/). Weaver's Words Home Page: ---http://www.iei.net/~davidc/ Weaver's Words Back Issues: ---http://www.iei.net/~davidc/2468.html Weaver's Words Classifieds: ---http://www.iei.net/~davidc/classifieds.html Weaver's Words Basketry Links: ---http://www.iei.net/~davidc/basket.htm Weaver's Words Chat Room: ---http://www.iei.net/~davidc/chitchat.html Weaver's Words Bulletin Board: ---http://www.InsideTheWeb.com/messageboard/mbs.cgi/mb83941 Weaver's Words RIT Dye Color Chart: ---http://www.iei.net/~davidc/ritdye.html Weaver's Words Basketry Wallpaper Page: ---http://www.iei.net/~davidc/graphics/graphics.html Weaver's Words Basketry Clip Art Page 1: ---http://www.iei.net/~davidc/graphics/clipart.html Weaver's Words Basketry History: ---http://www.iei.net/~davidc/history.html Weaver's Words Basketry Dictionary: ---http://www.iei.net/~davidc/dictionary.htm Weaver's Words Guestbook: ---http://www.lpage.com/wgb/wgbsign.dbm?owner=Basketry Weaver's Words Favorite Links & Stuff: ---http://www.iei.net/~davidc/cool.htm Weaver's Words Free Postcard Page: ---http://www.iei.net/~davidc/postcard.html Weaver's Words Bulletin Free Banner Service: ---http://www.iei.net/~davidc/banner.html {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Hi Everyone, Check out my RIT Dye Color Chart. I've tried to match each color name to its appropriate color. To view it go to: http://www.iei.net/~davidc/ritdye.html I've also received some pictures from Cheryl VanDeVeer of her baskets and some Tule Shelters. Check them out at: http://www.iei.net/~davidc/yourpics/vandeveer.html and http://www.iei.net/~davidc/yourpics/vandeveer1.html You no longer need a password to access the back issues. Just go to Weaver's Words home page (http://www.iei.net/~davidc/), and select back issues from the menu. The password was causing too many problems. Take Care, David davidc@iei.net {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Weavers Words Date: Fri, 07 Aug 1998 19:47:45 PDT From: "Alice Edwards" To: davidc@iei.net Hello Weavers, I haven't written in ages, I've been busy at work and slowly recovering energy after the health problems. But I'm determined to get this finished and sent before I receive another issue to add comments about. I have tried to accumulate all my notes about past issues. If not I'll have to bring it up later. Perhaps I will try out Bert Comstock's method of organizing comments and replies. About the pattern question raised by Susan Reed-Fanfoni, I have enjoyed reading all the comments and further questions and I'm glad that she raised the question. It is very enlightening for those of us who are new to basket weaving. Many of the letters opened up further ramifications to consider as well. MUCH food for thought. Most of you may remember the letter from someone who had devised a large tissue cover on request for someone, then saw a very similar pattern for sale on the net. No copying, just 2 people with the same intentions and very similar results. Combined with the passage of time, and one of us 'newbies' might easily come up with something very similar to an older pattern. But that possibility doesn't eliminate the possibility of someone deliberately copying someone else's pattern. For me, as for Susan, the issue is a question, probably because I have never wrote a pattern for sale, or even my own use. However, I have one basket that is a modification/evolution of one I learned in a class that I need to write up directions for me at least. I made two at the time, one to keep and one for my oldest son who had requested the basket. When my youngest son saw the basket, and wanted one also, I had to promise to make him one because I was afraid without the example, I wouldn't get the same basket the next time. If I wrote out the directions I wouldn't need to keep a copy of the basket for me in case I wanted to make another one. The basket is now square, not rectangular, and to get the number of spokes and size of base I halved the difference between the length and width of the original pattern. Then, instead of the fancier and more expensive 1" ash strip, I just used dyed 1/4" flat oval in dark green with the natural reed. I actually changed the number and placing of the dyed reed in each basket for variety because I couldn't decide how I wanted to do them. In fact, it looks quite different, but the issue of when modifications become a different basket has concerned me and I always feel the need to refer back to the original basket pattern in conversation. I made the basket when I was a fairly new weaver and might be more adventurous now, but at the time it really helped to use the original basket and pattern as a starting point to what I wanted. And if I want a basket that is different from the pattern I have, I still tend to look for another basket with some of the features I want that I can combine with the pattern I am changing. Well enough rambling on, I suspect that I want a simple answer to a complex question. * - * Nancy in Glen Arm, Md. - In your quest for just the right blue, have you tried Rit's Evening Blue? I tried it and Sea-foam green this year and was very happy with both of them. I like Royal Blue, but it is bright. Mindy - Glad your customer finally paid for the large nesting set. Thanks for letting us know. Judith Olney - I was not familiar with the Mining Company web sites, and I agree that the basketry site is great. Kelly Ballenger - Alpharetta, GA - Glad you joined in, Alpharetta is a very familiar name for me at work. My company is using computers provided by Digital in Alpharetta. Eileen, MI - I'll add my two cents worth. Flo Hoppe's first book "Wicker Basketry" is really great. I enjoy round reed and fell in love with this book. One of these days I'm going to find the time to finish going through the patterns in the book. It is well written with well organized instructions about all the various techniques and a group of patterns in the back organized to add new skills and increase the difficulty as you work through them. Great for beginners and I agree it is a must have type of book. Beverly Seegert - what a neat idea to dye the 1/4" flat moss green and use it with naturals. I really enjoy your magazine and am looking forward to the new issue. Lois Keener - How lucky you are not having to worry about Rabies in Hawaii. The book " A YANKEE CHRISTMAS" sounds interesting. Maybe I will be lucky and find a copy. Kay Janke - Glad you are starting to feel better. I haven't had any problems, just aggravation because I'm still taking tests etc., while the doctors try to decide what if anything I need to do to avoid kidney stone problems in the future. And it is taking forever to get my energy level back up to something approaching normal. Of course, it doesn't help that I am working a lot of 10 hour days lately! Good Luck storing your basket purchases. I have done more buying than weaving since last spring and I need to start using some of my purchases so I won't need as much storage. When you figure out how much dye is in the box, please let all of us know. I've been a bit intimidated by color mixing instructions that call for half a box since I didn't know how much a box should hold. David - 700 subscribers. WOW!!! Susan Tripp - I think I remember one of my teachers mentioning Basket Tree powder dyes and I think she preferred them to RIT, but found them harder to get and so used Rit a lot anyway. (?) Wish I could remember more definitely. I can sympathize with addresses no one has heard of, my home town in western Kansas is Meade. Small and unknown also, I usually say 40 miles from Dodge City, but I'm not sure that the younger folks have heard of it either and 172 miles west of Wichita is kinda vague! Betsy Clark - Glad your husband is back safely and you are enjoying yourselves. I got your book back out and read through it. Didn't notice any typos but I wasn't making the baskets either, just reading and that might make a difference. Some of them are however on my list of 'want to make' baskets. I did notice you suggested using a cotton pillowcase for the walnuts if you were making dye, so it would be sturdier than the pantyhose usually suggested. I have read that the hose were better, since if left in too long, the cotton could be damaged by something in the walnut stain and break down. I think some kind of acid perhaps that is released from the black walnut as it 'brews'. At our last guild meeting we were talking about stain and dye and Bert Comstock said she looks for old nylon curtains (sheers I think) at yard sales or thrift stores and sews them into bags with drawstrings. She suggested using the hems for the drawstring casing. That might be the best of both worlds, not as fragile as the hose and synthetic so it wouldn't rot out. Kathy Fullerton - hope you got the aubergine out of your weaving towels and lots of info about Ft. Polk. I personally don't mind you using space in WW for the question. Diana Selvey from Indiana - Will you be teaching classes at the herb farm over an extended period, or just once or twice. I take lessons, when I am free and can, at a museum. The three teachers who have classes there kept a Rubbermaid trash can with walnut stain there for all of us to use, at least until lately. I think for my last class there the teacher had brought "Weavers Stain" and sprayed our baskets. If you moved the stain in a LARGE Tupperware or Rubbermaid container that sealed you would probably be safe. But, I would be sure it sealed and carry it in the trunk, just in case. Also, you might consider using one of the tea stain recipes instead of walnut. When I first heard of it, I thought it sounded odd, but I have used it on some baskets and really liked it. If you used one of the recipes that use instant, you could even wait and mix it on-site. Kay Harradine - I sometimes think that copiers are too available and accepted. I use them myself, but many people seem to forget about copyright protection. I applaud your generosity of spirit, and positive attitude in the face of such aggravation. Perhaps it would help to put a price on the sheet and add a statement about the availability of volume pricing on request. But, it suspect that some people still won't 'get it'. Karen Awong - Glad you are enjoying weaving baskets and are contributing. It gives us all a chance to make suggestions and maybe even pick up a few new ideas. Now to answer your questions. Ideally I agree with Paula Harrison, one of my teachers that you should separate out the thicker reed for stakes and keep the thinner ones for weaves when you first open the bundle. However, I tend to be rushed and whether I do this depends on the size and how often I use it. I usually store open bundles of reed in two gallon plastic bags. For the sizes I use most I am willing to have a separate bag for weavers, but for some sizes I don't bother with it. I do check them when I get the reed out to weave or cut. Whether I use curved strips depends on how curved they are. You can use them, usually on the outside pieces of reed in a base where they can curve out without overlapping another spoke. If I think there is too much curve for this I try to use them where I can cut close to the curve and not waste much reed. Hope this helps, I'm sure there will be others who help also. {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: WW--"out of lurking" Date: Sat, 08 Aug 1998 00:31:14 -0400 From: "Kathleen M. Calvert" To: davidc@iei.net Hi All, I figured I had better come out of lurking before I get that Lurker of the Year award from Joy. I haven't really been lurking, just spend so much time with business correspondence on the computer that my social computer time has ben greatly cut down. But... I do inhale every WW and appreciate everyone's input. I have also put a voice and face with each one of you. Can feel your personalities come through with your style of writing---love it. I have sleep over party for my daughter's 12th birthday happening as I write and it is getting rowdy. And I wanted to weave tonight--guess that idea is gone up in smoke. Well, here's all my in out to make up for lost time. First--I was privileged to be a judge at the Basket Exhibit at the Pinelands Folk Music & Basketry Center (Mary Carty) this past April. What a fun weekend, and I learned a lot about "judging". It was great to meet WW'ers Gail Caron and Diana French. Basketmakers are always fun people to meet. I promise to be sending in photos to David--or scanning them over, now that I am finally figuring out how to use my scanner. The baskets in the exhibit were beautiful. Guess I will never be entering one of mine. My daughter, Molly came with me, and was just getting over pneumonia---in fact we had been in the ER the night before and didn't know if we would make it to the Exhibit. But we got there, and Molly sure recuperated quickly once in Mary Carty's shop. Molly has woven a few simple baskets, but is certainly not an avid weaver, ....but she is VERY good at critiquing my work. She jumped right in with the judging and had no problem putting in her 2 cents. Molly was very intrigued by the music in Mary's shop, and we came home with, no, not a basket....a dulcimer! She is making beautiful music with it. Thanks for turning her on Mary--we will get back to visit soon--promise (with dulcimer to play of course). I have learned a lot from all of you about dyeing reed. As I have discussed with Joy Moody, I guess I have color phobia because I don't use much color in my baskets. I actually do prefer them plain and stained, but am getting a little less tense about using some color. I have used both Basketree and Rit, and Tintex. I prefer using Rit Liquid simply because of quantity control and ease of storing. Not a big deal to dye up a few strands at a time . The best hint from you all that really works is using vinegar in the rinse water. I always pull it through a paper towel, and I notice hardly any, if any color comes off after adding vinegar to the rinse. Great color I have discovered is mixing Rit Dark green with Tintex forest green. Last night I used 3 quarts of water to 1 ounce of dark green liquid Rit and lightly sprinkled some forest green Tintex-- a beautiful green--a cross between seafoam and teal. I found the Basketree hunter green is too black looking, but if you add a bit of the tintex forest you get a prettier shade of dark green. Thanks for all your help with getting me to experiment with some colors Last, I wanted to put in my 2 cents about pattern copying--such a dilemma. I have two extremes on the subject to comment on. I feel it is totally wrong to photocopy a pattern and use it to teach--and that's where all the bad stuff is starting I believe. When I first started my basketry supply business I had a customer actually offer her photocopy machine to me " just in case I wanted to copy any patterns". I really plowed into this poor old soul. I made it clear to her that I do not condone photocopying--it is stealing. She looked at me like I had 10 heads--she had never heard of such a thing. I explained that there are people who spend an immense amount of time and money to design and create these patterns and that this is their job--their income. I continue to make this point to new weavers I meet, hoping to make a small impression. Now, on the other hand--I have never written down a pattern of my own ( maybe a couple of silly little ones). I get ideas all the time for baskets that I would like to do, then I dismiss them. Mostly because I do not have the time to follow through right now, but also because I always think well, maybe someone did this already--how does one really know? How many versions of a market basket can you do? I made a basket a few years ago in Vermont--simple market style on a 6 x 12 D. I was thinking about how beautiful Vermont was while I was making it, so added maple strip for the beautiful maples, a few green strips for the Green Mountains, and hung a painted pine tree on it, painted the handle green and added a few wildflowers on the handle as well-- for the Vermont Wild Flower Farm. I couldn't think of a way to add Ben & Jerry's. I called it my Green Mountain Gathering Basket. Yes, my basket, an original style--heck no. I have seen designs by some very renown writers that say "adapted from: Suzy Q's apple basket" or "inspired by Molly Malone's potato basket." I think if you do a take off on another pattern and you say "this pattern is an adaptation from so and so's blah blah blah basket," and include info on how to get that pattern, that is fair. My point is I certainly believe in protecting what I am aware of is someone else's, but come on guys, sometimes it's like vanilla ice cream with a different container. If you have designed something very distinctive with a custom designed base and handle, specific painting design--yeah, that's yours---but I think you have to lighten up on the more common versions and let the customer choose. Bet I just opened up a can of worms--sorry. Again, I do all in my power to protect what I know is a design belonging to a specific author. I think it is also important to see photos of a pattern before purchasing it--there is some garbage out there, and it does help to see if it looks like anything you might be interested in making. I include photos of all patterns I carry in my catalog, and plan to continue. It is very hard, if not impossible to count rows or copy from the black and white photo that I show, but it does give the customer a good idea if they would like to make it. I, however, do not allow patterns to be returned---I think it is a fair policy considering the photo has been seen before purchase as well as my answering any questions to see if it is indeed a basket you would like to make. Thumbnail photos on the internet would also be pretty difficult to copy---but a pattern in the hand is real easy to swipe through a copy machine. Guess I've rambled enough--for those who don't know me I am one of the original WW'ers and owner of KMC Baskets & Folkart in NJ. Stop and see me if you are traveling through--I love company--especially basket people. For my customers--remember I will not be shipping from Aug. 15th through Aug. 24th---then it is full steam ahead to re-editing my catalog with lots of new things, submitting my web site plan and get ready for Fall classes! And for David--a hug for all you do for us. Will be talking to you soon about this website stuff that is giving me a major headache. I think you are hired!! Enjoy the rest of your summer everyone--weave a basket you have always wanted to, but didn't get to. I'm heading to the mountains next week to do just that. Take care. Kathi Calvert---in the "nights are getting too cool already" NJ KMC Baskets & Folkart rcal@concentric.net {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Re: "Weavers Words" V. 2 I. 22 Date: Sat, 08 Aug 1998 02:46:15 EDT From: froggestow@juno.com (Roberta R Comstock) To: davidc@iei.net References: 1 "Weavers Words" Vol. 2 Iss. 22 Jessica Buehlmann - I hope you're reading WW so I can thank you for sharing "The Rit Custom Color Recipe Chart". Thank you! Pam Woodbury - Glad to hear the bad show was a loner and not a trend. Diana Selvey - I've never heard of a basket teacher providing stain for their students. If I were you, I wouldn't worry about it. I don't know of a beeskep pattern, but there are a lot of books with coiling directions. Dorothy Hartley's book *Lost Country Life* has some discussion about straw skeps and sleeping pads. The skeps I've seen are made of straw with the bundles about an inch to an inch and a half in diameter. The shape is a rounded cone, sort of like a haystack in the nursery rhyme illustrations or on honey jar labels. They are coiled and stitched in place with fine twine if I remember right (such as jute craft twine), or they could be stitched with raffia or fine reed or binder cane. The stitches are up to an inch apart. I'm not sure about the placement of the entry hole. There may also be sticks inserted to go across the inside space to give the bees a place to build their honeycombs. USDA may have a publication on beekeeping that would explain such technicalities. I suppose it depends whether people want functional skeps or ornamental ones. Please let us know what you find out about skeps and how the class turns out. Miss Jimmie - I would not consider a piece my original work unless it was my own design (or my own pattern). When I weave in a class or use someone else's pattern, I usually write that information on the basket along with my signature (indicating that I made it) and the date. Kay Harradine - Regarding the people who say they plan to teach your basket: Right when they tell you that is an ideal time to offer them a discounted price on multiple copies of the pattern for distribution to their students. Then if they indicate they intended to just make copies from the one they already bought, you can politely inform them that it isn't legal to do that (or ethical). If they indicate they don't intend to make copies, you could offer your card so anyone who wants the pattern can order it from you. Karen Awong - When preparing to weave a basket and opening a new coil of reed, I usually pull what I need for the current project intending to sort the rest later. (Although I know it would be easier next time if I would just go ahead and sort the entire pound.) I check for thickness as I go. I don't much worry about straightness unless the distortion is severe. There's some flex in damp reed and minor curves don't really show much in the finished basket, unless it's very fine work and precision is necessary. So I use as much of the reed as I can, if not in this basket, maybe in the next one. If a lot of the reed is thin, I sometimes compensate for that by using it doubled. Pam D-K - The Chinese Cookie Cooler basket is a Barbara Morton pattern. I'm not sure who all carries it, but you can order it directly from her. I think her daughter reads Weavers Words - so she probably has the contact info handy. BSKTCHERYL@aol.com - (Oops! No signature on your post.) Cheryl? - Basketry materials are usually worked wet because it is necessary to dampen them to make them flexible enough to bend without breaking or cracking. Soaking time varies, but should only be long enough to make the material flex without breaking. Thin reed just takes a dip. Dried willow rods may have to soak for many hours, sometimes several days. Raffia is usually plenty flexible in the dry state, so I never soak it. Too much soaking weakens the fibers and shortens the life of the basket. It also makes the drying time longer, and may allow mold to invade the wet material. Jill Choate - It's so nice to have you with us at WW. I went to your website last night & also checked your Onliner info at Baskets, etc. I'm in love with your baskets! I may have to find a job and go back to work so I can get to some of your classes. I've got a daughter in Fairbanks (& a son in Valdez), but won't be able to get up there this year. Did I not go far enough to find the costs for your classes? Or do I need to request further information? Maybe I can catch you when you come outside next summer. Joy Moody - Got your swap message just fine. Sorry you had to drop out. Hope your booth organization is coming along well & good luck with the coming shows. Thanks a bunch for being our coordinator. I'm sure you'll get a lot of appreciative feedback from the participants. Pam from Southwest OH - I hope you enjoy the Renaissance Festival if you get to go. It's a taste of 'historic' atmosphere & can be a lot of fun. I don't know whether there is any SCA involvement there. This year is the first in over 20 years that the SCA will Not be participating in the KC RenFest. We used to do demonstrations of various period arts and sciences as well as hand to hand armored combat, and also ran an archery line where visitors could (for a small fee) shoot at hand painted targets. The main differences between RenFests and SCA are: RF is a commercial enterprise featuring mostly paid entertainers and numerous unpaid volunteers, with licensed concession stands selling food and drink and many artisans selling their wares. Modern people pay to attend as spectators and customers. The SCA is a non-profit, educational, participatory organization. Anyone can pay the fees and attend our events (wars, tournaments, feasts, workshops, bardic festivals, etc.), but everyone is expected to wear an attempt at appropriate historic costume. Beyond that, participation level depends on your interests. We are our own entertainment. There is probably a group near you. If you are interested, email me privately for more information. (Froggestow@juno.com) Back to the baskets! I've got several barter orders to fill this month, as well as the swap basket to make. Bert Comstock, Independence, MO (cool & cloudy today) {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: when??? Date: Sat, 8 Aug 1998 13:12:26 -0400 From: "Angie" To: "David - Weavers Words" Hi all, I've got a question for us all to mull over. When does something become public domain? When did a "D" handle stop being an original? Who was the first person to design a Williamsburg handle - was it a weaver or handle maker? We now carry a 6" Towel bar handle with pegs. As far as I know, no one else has such a handle - does this give us exclusive rights - we designed the handle? When I weave a basket on this handle, my pattern will be the first. Do I have to right to say no to someone else who wants to weave their own version (I'm not talking about sitting down with a pattern I wrote and weaving - but their own design) - what if it looks like mine and they never even saw mine? Yes, this was inspired by the cabin boy questions. I've heard of someone (not Barb Gilbert) who claims to have the rights to the cabin boy name. Who knows? I've written a couple of patterns and have several more baskets just waiting for the time to sit down and write the patterns. I know people have copied down measurements and all for baskets that I have in our store (these are ones I haven't written patterns for yet), what if they go home and make one and write the pattern and publish it before I do? What about a copy of a basket in a museum? I make a small amount of slotted wooden hearts and shapes for sale in our store. They are painted with my designs (some are stained plain) and all are slotted with a carving knife by my hand - some which have been inspired by stencil patterns, the rest are my original ideas. In my mind, my painting makes them my design. Other people make wooden and ceramic slotted shapes. We did start to make them because we started carrying a pattern using wooden slotted hearts and we knew other companies were supplying them. When did it move from an original idea? Is it open season? How many original ideas are out there - or are we all just repeating ideas that have been done somewhere at some time? Just some points for everyone to ponder. I don't know what the answers are. I do not agree with anyone sitting down with someone else's patterns and changing them slightly - that's just dead wrong! I do understand the teacher's problem, tough call. I'd like to hear other's thoughts. Still beautiful in PA Angie Country Seat http://www.countryseat.com {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Weavers Words Date: Sat, 8 Aug 1998 16:32:02 -0500 From: "Robert J. Corbett" To: "David Collins" I have noticed there are two people who participate in the "Weaver's Words" newsletter who are from Southern New Jersey, Gail Caron and Diana French. How far south in NJ are you? I will be in Southern Delaware not too far from the Lewes/Cape May Ferry. Our daughter is in Jackson, NJ (she doesn't make baskets, just appreciates them). Would it be possible for all of us to join together and form a guild? We may not be next door to each other, but it might be an opportunity for us. It would be a start. I have found no guilds or shops in my new area. Have basket materials -- will travel! Bert, you are quite right, our move is certainly not the trend. We have been Florida (paradise) for 20 years and I have never liked the weather. I can't wait to see snow again, put on another pot of coffee, then weave a basket. If one doesn't have to get up and go out in bad weather, it should be a pleasure. We are originally from a small town outside of Columbus, OH, it is called Westerville, OH. Have you heard of it? Probably now called "Powerball USA". Carolyn Corbett, still in Jackonsville, but soon to be in Delaware. {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: RE: "Weavers Words" V. 2 I. 23 Date: Sat, 8 Aug 1998 20:41:22 -0400 From: "Susi Nuss" To: "'David Collins'" Hi Everyone: Susi Nuss here in the lovely summer weather in CT I thought I would offer a few resources on copyright. I hope they help your understanding of this serious subject. http://www.benedict.com/ The Copyright Website http://lcweb.loc.gov/copyright/ United States Copyright Office http://www.law.cornell.edu/treaties/berne/overview.html Berne Convention for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works http://www.intellectual-property.co.uk/copyrt.htm E. Eder & Co. Copyright & Design Right http://www.law.cornell.edu/copyright/regulations/regs.overview.html 37 CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS http://fairuse.stanford.edu/ Copyright and Fair Use - Stanford University I hope you have all had a chance to stop by and read the feature on Nantucket Lightship Baskets I did for the Mining Co. Basketry site. http://basketry.miningco.com/library/weekly/aa080398.htm I was quite amazed at the amount of material there was available on the Internet on this regional basketry style. In addition to the molds, tools, supplies and finished baskets there were many gift items. For one, I like the gold Mother's basket pendants and the diamond earring jackets. Now I just have to win Powerball (oh, yes those 13 guys already won that - too bad). Does anyone have a feeling for the price (retail) of sweetgrass right now? I'd like to know what the going rate is. One of the students in my last class (Linda Benson) gave me the name of a nursery where you can purchase sweetgrass starter plugs: The Redwood City Seed Company, PO Box 361, Redwood City, CA 94064 (650) 325-7333; Internet http://www.batnet.com/rwc-seed/ Has anyone had luck growing it themselves? I'd love to hear about your experiences. Woven Wooden Wishes, Susi Nuss Basketry - The Mining Co http://basketry.miningco.com mailto: basketry.guide@miningco.com {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: (no subject) Date: Sun, 9 Aug 1998 11:17:49 EDT From: Arlo1225@aol.com To: davidc@iei.net Hi Everyone! Hope your summer is not going as quickly as mine! Have not written in a long time, so I'm making up for it now! Haven't started my swap basket yet - but I do think I know what I want to make - it's a start! To Susan from Ithaca: It's funny how New Yorkers refer to themselves and their area of NY. We consider ourselves "upstate NYers" and consider you folks "western NYer's"! I live about 30 minutes SE of Albany. However I know of folks from Long Island that consider Westchester Co. "upstate"! We think of anything below Dutchess County as "downstate" and anything above Albany as "The North Country". Your talk about Ithaca also brings back many memories. My husband is a Cornell graduate and I lived in Ithaca for 1 year with him - in an apartment complex next to the county airport - Warren Road? All I know is that we didn't need an alarm clock - a small jet took off every weekday around 7AM! Yes, I also know Dryden and all the little areas around Ithaca. It is a beautiful area - but I too do not miss the winters there! Just came back from Lake Placid (in the North Country :-) !) where we found a satellite picture of the Finger Lakes area. It was really interesting - you could identify everything! We have spent many vacations in that area and it was fun trying to find all of our favorite spots! Re: idea stealers - we were at one time in the crafts business - attending all the local shows and some of the nationally known ones. (we made primitive-styled wood items). There were many stealers at those shows too, with many trying to sketch our patterns and jot down notes about our finishes. While it was annoying, we did not let it get to us as we figured we could not stop the practice and we knew we made quality items. Many woodworkers didn't even sand their products! The customers who knew quality workmanship would by- pass these vendors and buy from us, while the others would complain our prices were too high compared to other vendors and go and buy the unsanded, stapled together - ready-to-fall-apart, items. Our consolation was that we went home with a tidy profit, guilt-free, knowing we sold quality items at a reasonable cost that our customers could enjoy for a long time without the product falling apart! Re: Country Seat's book return policy: Please don't stop! I have ordered and returned many patterns and books, especially when I first began weaving. It was too hard to try and decide which patterns I could easily complete without actually reading the directions. Also, since I too suffer from PAS, I found that some patterns ordered were duplicates of those I already had in other sources! (Not copies, just duplicates!) Country Seat's policy of return has allowed me to return those duplicates plus the ones I considered too difficult to tackle as of yet. By giving only store credit for these returns it also made me feel like I was able to buy supplies for "free" since I had already spent the $ for the patterns :-) ! Does that make sense to anyone else? Also, I would never even consider photocopying the patterns then returning them. Just writing about doing that makes me feel guilty! I know there are some out there that would to that without the least bit of guilt, but I am not one of them! I just hope "those people" don't ruin it for the rest of us! As I mentioned before, we have just returned from a short vacation up north to Lake Placid - beautiful area! Went to the Adirondack Museum and all the shops in L. Placid - saw Lisa Nortz's Adirondack Pack Baskets for sale in the museum and also in a few shops in town. Beautiful! PAS attack! Must order her pattern for the mini and small pack baskets! A request: While in the museum I bought a small birch-bark woven fish ornament. Does anyone know where I could buy patterns for small items like that? We have a Japanese exchange student with us for the summer and I would like to make some small woven items for her to take back to Japan as gifts for her family. Thanks in advance. Another request: Are there any weavers out there from the Albany, NY area? Pittsfield, MA area? Every WW has messages about the guilds, weekends, etc. in the mid-west, west, north and south, but this area seems to be "weaver- empty"! I hope I am wrong! Would love to get together with other weavers in this area - if there are any! Please let me know! Thanks! Finally, thank you Dave for all your hard work - WW is great! TTFN from sunny, humid, and hot "upstate" NY :-) ! Lesley {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Reno Conference Date: Sun, 9 Aug 1998 14:59:18 EDT From: CMGARDNER@aol.com To: davidc@iei.net Hi to everyone, I noticed a posting a few issues ago about a conference of Native American Basketmakers that was going to be in Reno, NV next June. Would anyone remember that announcement or have information on it. We have a great guild here in Reno and would love to be involved with the conference. This invitation is open to anyone visiting our area! If someone knows about the event, I would appreciate hearing from them. Thanks very much! Molly Gardner Reno, NV {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Weaver's Words Date: Sun, 9 Aug 1998 20:58:02 -0000 From: "Jeff & Diana French" To: "David Collins" Hi everyone! David: Thanks so much for posting the Rit dye chart - you are right on top of all our needs! We really appreciate you :) And 700 subscribers... WOW!!!! Jace isa cutie - I've voted... hope he wins! Carolyn Willoughby: Congratulations on your prize winning baskets! It's so exciting to be recognized, isn't it? Even though you had a low turnout at this particular event, it gives you the confidence to enter more events like it. And, as you said, exposes the art of basket weaving/making to the community. Looking forward to seeing those prizewinning baskets :) Gail Caron: One of these days we will run into each other. I haven't been over to Mary's in ages - vacations and company have kept me busy although I have been doing some weaving here at home. Once fall arrives & school begins, things will quiet down and I'll get back to regular weaving. :) Laurie in Clinton: Hmmmmm.... I've never heard of popcorn weave but am anxiously awaiting a response to your question... sounds interesting! I'm sure someone on this list knows what it is. Anna from Down Under: Welcome!!! Glad to have you as part of our little community. Always fun to hear how people from other parts of the world do things and the products/naturals they use. I'm sure you'll get lots of curious questions from us. I must say, I'm envious - always wanted to go to Australia, but haven't, as yet, had the chance. Hope we hear from you often. Well, I've got to get a batch of walnut dye made up tonight while my son is sleeping - have several baskets waiting to be stained, including my swap basket ... yup, I'm finished! Now to find a box - YIKES!!! Happy weaving to all from Diana French in warm & muggy southern New Jersey {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: my thoughts Date: Sun, 9 Aug 1998 16:46:45 -0700 From: whoville4@juno.com (Brian/Diane D Vanden Heuvel) To: davidc@iei.net References: 1 You do such a great job with this David. Thanks!! I received my name for the basket swap, and have my basket done. I just have to get it packaged up to mail. Thanks Joy for making this possible. Great idea! For those of you that are always mentioning the weather at the end of your notes, we had quite a storm last week, and the lightning blew out our modem. I'm over at my parents using their computer to check my e-mail. It will be about three weeks before we can get it replaced due to backorders because of the number of storms this year. The storm also ruined our garage door opener and the circuit board in the furnace. Praise God for insurance! There has been a lot of discussion about patterns and such in the latest WW. I don't sell any patterns of my own, though I have made up several baskets. Maybe therefore, that doesn't qualify me to give any input, but here it goes anyway. I've made over 500 baskets, and consider them all to be 'originals' of a sort. No two baskets are the same regardless if the same pattern and colors is used or not. That is one of the great things about baskets. I have taken several patterns and altered them, whether it be by number of stakes or the number of rows and colors and such. I have also taken patterns and changed them by size. Usually taking a basket and downsizing it to fit a different handle. Would that be considered my own? Like I said I don't sell any patterns, so what I do in the privacy of my basement doesn't really matter. I do have sympathy for those of you that write and teach baskets on a regular basis, and that make your living off such. For some it may be that they didn't know that the pattern existed in the first place, and in that case how can you ever know? For those that do it out of their own greediness, then shame on them. Unfortunately, that is part of what society has become. It sounds to me like most of us agree that knowingly reproducing other peoples patterns is wrong. As far as the convenience of teaching them, I don't know. It had been mentioned back in some July issues about someone going to a seminar/convention at Lake Iowa. I haven't seen anything about it. Was it a good time? Where is Lake Iowa? I so enjoy reading all the input on Weaver's Words. Till I can get on next time! Diane - Beloit is now sunny and Humid, but no more lightning!! {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Re: "Weavers Words" V. 2 I. 23 Date: Sun, 09 Aug 1998 20:09:11 -0600 From: mlower@mail1.aeroinc.net Organization: Baskets by Mindy To: David Collins References: 1 Hi everyone, Susan, I've seen a Jose Formosa Reyes purse (Nantucket Lightship basket) advertised for $5400. An antique dealer on Nantucket Island told this man who found his mother's purse that it would probably be worth $2000-3000. He has found a reputable woman on the island who is going to look at the purse and place a value on it. In 1994 a labeled set of six nesting baskets made by David Hall brought $118,000 at a Sotheby's auction. He was one of the first Nantucket basketmakers. The set was valued in the $20,000 range but there were two bidders who really wanted it. Mindy Northwest Illinois {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Weaver's Words Date: Sun, 09 Aug 1998 22:16:34 -0400 From: Jayna Glemby To: davidc@iei.net Hello fellow weavers! I haven't responded in some time to WW, due to some minor health problems...but have enjoyed keeping up with the news and tips. Over 700 of us now! Thanks David, for all you do. I want to welcome Anna from Down under and like you, I have no idea what the Chinese Cookie Basket is. If someone sells the pattern, perhaps they might be good enough to send a photo for David to scan, since we hear so much about it? (Hint) Also, have enjoyed all the sharing about Rit dye...thank you all! Joy Moody...what a great idea to have a basket swap! I'm certain there are others like myself (who are not able to participate at this time) who are nonetheless interested in how it turns out. Look forward to the comments. Perhaps by the next swap I'll have more energy and will be weaving enough to take part. Have just begun weaving again after a long unproductive spring and it feels so good to feel good and active again.(nothing serious just allergies and a bunch of little things that sapped my energy.) Annetta in WI: congratulations to your young daughter...and thanks for telling us about her! Last summer, there was a discussion on WW about great floor baskets and someone mentioned one for sale in a shop in Bar Harbor, Maine. We had just returned from our annual trip to visit friends in Maine, so I tucked the information away for this year. It was worth saving...Gooseberry Hollow on Maine Street (across from a park) in Bar Harbor was a real treat. No floor baskets this year, but many other baskets for sale, and all beautifully made. This was a delightful gift shop with many treasures and I want to thank who ever told about it. It took us a while to find...up the hill from the harbor and then right onto Main street. Lois K. I love to hear your comments and the things you get into, and in fact, enjoy all of you on WW!!! From Jayna in warm and sunny central Massachusetts {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Weaver's Words Date: Mon, 10 Aug 1998 09:36:52 -0400 From: "joym" To: Hello All You Happy Weavers! The Basket Swap has officially began! We have 76 wild & crazy basketmakers happily at work, weaving for another Weaver's Words family member. As it turned out, there were a few snags which appear to be due to e-mail transmission problems, but all is well now. The method I used works for an even number or an uneven number of people, but once the list is done the "loop is closed" and others can't be added. There were a few stragglers, and they were paired with each other ~ luckily we had an even number for that! Karen: I use only high quality reed, so I don't see that much variation in one coil. The coils do vary depending on the time of year & how the plants grow. When I get a crooked piece, I generally toss it. I have found that, more often than not, unless the curve isn't too bad, it makes it more difficult to get a good finished product. Pieces with slight curves may be placed on the outside edges of your basket base. As for variations on thickness, I try to get the stakes as uniform as possible. If you don't, the weave will not look right & your basket will have noticeable wobbly places. Who asked about set-ups for fairs? I have researched several types of canopies. I do think this is a matter of tastes & priorities, as well as budget. WW readers may want to check out http://www.artfairsource.com/ndssa4.htm for a SourceBook of various listings. I have looked at E-Z Up, CraftsHut, and Flourish canopies. The E-Z Up is probably the most popular, probably due to it's "e-z up" feature ~ it pops in place in seconds. But, the people I spoke to did NOT like the performance of the low price model in the rain &/or wind. They also did not like the pitch of the roof, which tends to puddle water. No offense to E-Z Up owners who love their E-Z Ups. The higher priced E-Z Ups were more expensive than some other models with additional features. I looked at Craft Hut, which sets up in about 20 minutes. I liked some of its features, but the price was close to the Flourish top of the line model that I liked the most. It has a visor in front, a rounded roof, a skylight so your set-up doesn't feel like a cave, & air vents to equalize the pressure in inclement weather. The downside is that it takes 30 minutes to set up. However, it can be used inside as well as outside and has a number of wall options. Be prepared to pay between $300 for the cheapest E-Z Up without walls to around $875. Including walls &tie-downs. Other options are extra. Once again, all Basket Swap baskets are to be mailed by the September 1st deadline. Thanks to all who joined in. Before I close, Linda Braun step aside!! I have a rival for your "Bas Cats"!! I have just gotten a weaving buddy in anticipation of my long winter studio hours. "Artsy" the bunny has just moved into the house studio & is being trained. I expect to have "Bas Bun" pictures this winter :) Signing off from Hampden, Maine where it has been HOT HOT & pool dips between weaving has been a pleasure! Joy Moody http://www.signofthecrow.com {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Date: Mon, 10 Aug 1998 14:25:09 -0700 From: hannah To: "'davidc@iei.net'" Hi David and all of you fellow weavers out there!!! First of all, David, over 700 subscribers, WOW!!! AND CONGRATULATIONS ON A JOB WELL DONE!!! Thank you so much for this forum. Second of all, I want you all to know that we have been experiencing some difficulty getting our web pages to work properly so we have put in a temporary page for the base order. The price list is there, but you have to e-mail us with your order. Microsoft is working with us to get the problem worked out, so please bear with us. I am not listing any of my baskets until we can get this issue solved, and hopefully it will be very soon. We just thought, since we had an overwhelming response for the price list, we would at least publish it there and make it available to anyone who wants it. You can subscribe to my page and when it is updated, you will be notified. I really appreciate any and all of you who visit there, and we apologize for any inconvenience that this may cause you. The site is a secure site. The address is: http://www.feixbaskets-crafts.com I hope that you will all find something that we can help you with. We also do custom orders, so please don't hesitate to e-mail us at sales@feixbaskets-crafts.com Thanks again. Lastly, I just want to tell you all, that I think that you are all a wonderful bunch of weavers and I am proud to be a part of the basket weaving community. No matter what, even when you disagree, you are all delightful and handle things in such adult like mannerisms, not like other crafters!!!! Anyway, I just wanted you all to know that I think you are all great. I hope my basket buddy likes what I am sending her. I am very excited. It is finally raining here in southwest OH and I am thrilled about it!!! Pam Feix Eaton, OH {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Weavers Words Date: Mon, 10 Aug 1998 16:48:42 -0400 From: "joym" To: Back Again! Cheryl mentioned the article on the Neptune's, who are Maine Passamaquoddy basket makers. That article is in the July/August issue of Piecework. There are actually 4 Maine tribes, all of whom have their basket makers. Anyone interested in Maine Indian basketry might like to check out: http://www.thecoiledpot.com/mmgabriel.html http://www.ume.maine.edu/~hudsonm/TemporaryExhibit.html and http://www.acadia.net/abbe/nativepeople copy/nativepeople.html Unfortunately, I have been unable to re-find a page I had earmarked for the Maine Indian Basketmaker's Alliance. I lost my favorites in a recent software upgrade & have been trying to reconstruct them. Ugh! There were so many. Joy http://www.signofthecrow.com Hampden, Maine home of the Basket Fun Swap sign up! {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Weavers Words Date: Mon, 10 Aug 1998 17:04:11 EDT From: Charweav@aol.com To: davidc@iei.net Hi David and All Weavers! Susan Tripp: Yes, I do remember you and your mother. I am glad to hear you are planning to attend Winter Weave '99. The dates are FEB. 26, 27 and 28. Brochures will be out Aug. 19th. We have lots of good stuff for 99. Will be nice to see you again. We will have to set up a place for all of us to meet and chat. Kathie Anderson: you had my email right Charweav@aol.com. You never know if aol is goofed up or not. I still can't get WW from David. I read old issues to stay in contact. Try your email again, maybe it will work. Sure wish I had read issues earlier and got in on the basket swap. I will watch for the 2nd swap that's for sure. Take Care All Char {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} If for any you would ever like to cancel your subscription, simply send me a message with "unsubscribe" as your subject.