"Weavers Words" Vol. 2 Iss. 40 Date Sent: September 15, 1998 Subscribers: 777 David Collins 408 North Devon Avenue Indianapolis, IN 46219 317-899-5747 davidc@iei.net {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} ***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. {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Hi Everyone, I have added a couple of pictures that I have received from some of you. Here they are: Ms. Peggy Lawson's basket she wove for Ms. Sharle Osborne: http://www.iei.net/~davidc/yourpics/lawson1.html Ms. Chris Baker's basket she wove for the basket swap - Patio Partner: http://www.iei.net/~davidc/yourpics/baker1.html We have started off with a nice collection of recipes, so keep them coming. The address for the recipe page is: http://www.iei.net/~davidc/recipes.html Take Care, David davidc@iei.net {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Re: "Weavers Words" V. 2 I. 37 Date: Mon, 14 Sep 1998 23:56:16 EDT From: froggestow@juno.com (Roberta R Comstock) To: davidc@iei.net References: 1 "Weavers Words" V. 2 I. 37 (B): Carolyn Black - Thanks for posting the IBA information. Donna - Your note about not storing reed in a hot attic arrived in the middle of my reed-moving project. The garage loft (= attic) is great for drying things out. But having realized too hot and dry is a bad thing, I am now storing my reed under the bed in the guest room and making storage room in my studio. Don't know why it took me so long for that point to sink in. (P): Brenda Johnson - Thanks for telling me about elephant ears. Hmmm... flour, yeast and water... Same recipe I use for French bread. I can do that! Now all I need is an occasion for sharing them so I won't gobble up the whole batch all by myself. :=) Norma Collins - Thank you so much for the David update. It's good for us to know these things and helps us appreciate David and all he does for us that much more. Bert Comstock, Independnce, MO {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Re: "Weavers Words" V. 2 I. 37 Date: Mon, 14 Sep 1998 21:14:54 -0700 From: Sharle Osborne To: David Collins David, glad you seem to be one of these computer compulsives like the two men in my house. It is great to have someone in charge who keeps everything up to date and functioning. I love seeing pictures of other peoples baskets, and really appreciate your putting all these pictures on the web. It is great to be able to select the new ones to see and not have to wait for a big page to load. By the time this issue comes out, I should have some new pictures on my web page. When Steve put it together he was using pictures we already had on the computer. I just finished two double walled cedar baskets right before school started, one at 6:30am the morning of the first day. I had a handle made with a 6 strand braid coming from each side that I needed to come together in the middle. Sometimes a nights sleep makes things clearer and I got things to work. I'm going to be demonstrating at a River Festival at the Dungeness River Trestle Park next weekend. It will give me a chance to make something. I look forward to the next Swap. If we have them this often then maybe they won't get too big for someone to coordinate. We are having great weather and it got hot enough that we even have corn this year! Some of our 12 year old fruit trees managed to get taller than a deer's chin and we have pears and apples. David, know that all across the country there are hundreds of women, grateful for what you do for us. To make it possible for 700+ people to be able to communicate, isn't it amazing? Maybe it should be called the Communication Age. Sharle Osborne sharleo@orca.esd114.wednet.edu http://www.olympus.net/personal/skoehler/bskt.htm {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Walnut stain Date: Tue, 15 Sep 1998 00:21:51 -0400 From: Joe Conroy To: David Collins Hello David, I have noticed a lot of inquiries about staining with black walnuts and how to keep it from turning moldy. I make the stain up in batches of 5 or 10 gallons. Store it in a huge Rubbermaid container. To keep mould growth down I usually add a good bit of white vinegar. This seems to retard mould and also acts as a mordant to help "set" the color. Inevitably some mold grows. I just use a strainer, or sieve, to get the mould out. I have found that for me the easiest way to apply stain to a finished basket is to spray it. I use a small hand sprayer that can be found in the garden shop of K-Mart. It is similar to the spray bottles most of you use while making baskets except it has a pump built in to the top. There is a small filter on the bottom of the pickup tube which you have to clean once in awhile. Wal-Mart has a similar one, but it doesn't work as well as K-Mart's. I spray out in the driveway while holding the basket over the Rubbermaid container. Yes, I lose some of the stain because I'm spraying, but it is more than made up for because of all the time I save. During the winter months I spray in the basement. I make a spray booth out of cardboard containers that major appliances come in. Despite using vinegar &/or ammonia to retard mould sometimes some batches have a distinctive "bouquet". A couple of winters ago a buddy of mine dropped in right after I finished spraying in the basement. He said the house smelled like I was making chowder out of "bad" clams!! Big day tomorrow. Going out for blue crabs. They are more work to eat than lobster, but they taste a lot better. Keep up the good work, Joe Conroy Exeter, RI {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Wax linen pouches Date: Tue, 15 Sep 1998 00:55:46 -0400 From: Eileen To: davidc@iei.net Lesley - just go to Royalwood's website a - http://www.bright.net/~roylwood/ and there are many individual wax linen pouches done by Kathy Halter. There is also a book of patterns also done by Kathy. They even offer some of them in kits. That's a great way to try them out to see if you like doing them. Eileen Romeo, MI {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: walnut stain Date: Tue, 15 Sep 1998 09:37:43 -0400 From: "Angie - Country Seat" To: "David - Weavers Words" Hi all, Susan Tripp - I don't have a problem with my natural walnuts going moldy either. I am using walnuts that are about 4 years old (they are in an old pair of pantyhose). When I need more - I just put them in some water and boil. I don't add anything and the pot sits on the little stove open to the air until it's all gone. Quite a bit evaporates, but then I just make more. We have a cellar with part of the floor open to the ground (we are close to a stream and the basement floods often - no need to pump out the water as it all just goes back into the ground in the part left open). It definitely is cool in the basement, but you did say you put it in the fridge. Do you add anything to your stain? Some people say ammonia helps preserve it. There's definitely nothing growing on my walnuts - they hang to dry over the dirt (dyed reed hangs there too - it's a great set up!). So ??? can anyone figure out what the differences are that make the walnuts go moldy? overcast but still warm in Eastern PA, Angie The Country Seat http://www.countryseat.com {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Re: "Weavers Words" V. 2 I. 39 Date: Tue, 15 Sep 1998 13:50:28 -0000 From: "Jeff & Diana French" To: "David Collins" Hello Everyone! Wow! I'm loving the swap pictures. They are all great! Now, I've just got to get my film developed and get my picture in. And the recipe page looks great, David. You've done a wonderful job with it - so easy to find what you may be looking for. Hmmm - I wonder if I have a recipe worth submitting... :~) Billie in Va. Beach(B) - I love your idea about putting a basket in front of a fan to dry. With the humidity here in NJ, it seems to take forever for a basket to dry completely. This fan idea certainly sounds like a quicker way to dry it. Thanks! Carolyn Black(B) - Your sponge painting sounds really neat. And it really comes out nice on baskets?? I'm not too great at stenciling, so this sounds like something I just may want to try my hand at. Is there a special kind of paint that should be used? Is there a running/dripping problem? I would really love to hear more about how you do it. Pam Feix(B) - Judging from the picture you sent in to David, I see nothing wrong with your basket color. I hope that you do stick with the basket swaps... I would love to receive a basket from you! We all weave in our own unique way.. some use reed, others naturals.. some weave miniatures, while others go really big... and some have unique stain colors and some don't stain at all. The purpose of this swap, I feel, is to share our artistic nature with others and receive a unique gift from someone special! Well, I'm off to sort reed. Trying to design a basket to wrap around this great lamp handle I bought from Baskets of Joy this summer. Happy weaving to all! Diana French in ...yep, it's still humid & hot in southern New Jersey! {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Basket/Quilt calendar Date: Tue, 15 Sep 1998 10:00:49 -0400 From: mbzaj@infinet.com To: David Collins References: 1 To all, I just received my recent "Current" catalog. If you're not familiar with it, it is a catalog of cards, gift wrap, calendars and gifts. Every year my mom gets me the Quilt calendar that they offer for Christmas. I love it just for the decoration it offers. I don't quilt very much. The calendars include the patterns. I've never made one of the quilts yet but.......I hope she doesn't miss this year's because it has "12 exquisite applique quilt blocks-all original basket and wreath motifs by Colorado designer Jan Dalton". The thing that caught my eye is the one that they have pictured. It is an egg basket in great detail. It appears that strips of cloth are woven. It's beautiful! If any of you are interested in this their phone number is 1-800-848-2848 for orders. The cost of the calendar is 13.09 (or as low as 9.99 if you order 8 items or 30.00 worth). Of course I don't "own" Current. Just thought it was gorgeous and wanted to share! I may have to do some quilting! Bye! :) Brenda Johnson in Darke County, OH -- Mike, Brenda, Zach and Alex Johnson mbzaj@infinet.com Http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/Pointe/3455 {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: swap basket Date: Tue, 15 Sep 1998 10:02:43 EDT From: JandCPOST@aol.com To: davidc@iei.net I have been very remiss in posting about my swap basket. It was made by Gloria Logan and was a beautiful large cathead basket. She said it was her first cathead, but you'd never know it. Gloria also tucked in some basket pencils, a magnetic notepad and some stickers. Great work. I'm looking forward to the next swap. Carole Post {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Weaver's Words Date: Tue, 15 Sep 1998 10:28:03 -0400 From: "joym" To: Hi Everyone, Your notes on unfinished egg baskets gave me an idea for a future swap: send one of your unfinished baskets & let the recipient finish it. You may never want to see it again. They may be happy to receive it. A follow-up note about Swaps: Until you coordinate one, it's hard to "see" what's involved. It is very difficult to answer individual e-mails while doing the rest of it. I received a lot of questions that were already answered in WW. So, if we take the time to read the Swap postings thoroughly it will make Gail's life a lot easier, & make the Swap run more smoothly. Carolyn Black~ I love your artist's approach of "just trying something" & not fearing the outcome. Let the creativity go. Like you say, if you don't like the result, you can always change it! I hate to see people with their "feet stuck in concrete" because they're afraid of unknown results. Breaking loose if FREEING! Pam Feix~ That prednisone is bad stuff! If taken for more than a few months, it leaches calcium from the body and causes problems with the bones. I do not think glucosamine alone produces the same effect as the doctor recommended blend of glucosamine, chondroitant sulphate & manganese. Good luck to you! Off to try to find a low fat ditty to post to the recipes page... Joy Moody http://www.signofthecrow.com {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Weaver's Words Date: Tue, 15 Sep 1998 09:55:38 -0500 From: Karen Mitchell To: "'davidc@iei.net'" So sorry it has taken me a little while to get back to a few of you, so here goes: Joy: I loved the idea you gave me about a Marshmallow Basket. I tried it this weekend. It really turned out cute. Thanks for the idea. Pam Felix: I went to a POW-WOW last weekend - would you believe they had elephant ears, or I think that's what I ate. They called it fry bread, it was great. So guess I won't be needing your zip-lock bag - but thanks anyway... Judy Mills: You asked what kind of propane torch I used-had to check with my husband - he said it just a general purpose propane torch. He got it at the hardware store. It can be lit either by a flint start or a match. It's used for sweating pipes and stuff like that. I have also used a lighter used for lighting fireplaces or barbecue grills. The whole idea behind it is that the basket has to damp - so all the lose hairs burn off and when it hits the wet basket the burn off STOPs. I hold it about 3-4 inches from the basket - but do move it pretty fast to prevent burn marks. You can sand the burn marks off it you get any of them on it. If you have stained your basket already don't use this method - sometimes stains are very flammable. Wanted to share with you all a product I found at Wal-Mart called "Craft wax". It comes in different fragrances: Rose, Mystic, Lavender, Vanilla, and Cinnamon. I have been putting it on my baskets to be given as gifts. It's really great on the baskets that have been stained as it removes most of the smell. I've been rubbing it on the bottom of the baskets - it doesn't change the color of the reed either. Smells great!!! I have used rubber stamping and embossing on several baskets. Just be sure when using only rubber stamps to use the permanent stamp pads and for embossing the embossing or pigment pads. You can use a hair dryer or heat gun for the embossing, be careful it dries a little faster on the reed than it does on paper. Weaving Away Karen Mitchell/St.Louis {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Weaver's Words Date: Tue, 15 Sep 1998 11:25:55 -0400 From: Jayna Glemby To: davidc@iei.net David...as everyone else, I am forever grateful for all you do for us. Seeing a WW in the mailbox is like hearing from old friends who become more dear each day...thank you so much for all you do for us! Follow up: I told you several weeks ago that a basket I made my allergy nurse became stained from the dyed blue/green eucalyptus she had put in it...it had got mushy. Well, by the time she took my suggestion to try bleach and a Q tip, it was too late, the stain had set. I took it and dyed it very very dark...first in a dark green and then in walnut and it helped. Incidentally, I loved the resulting color. Have appreciated all the tips on staining. Lois I use the same formula as you do and really like Minwax. Thanks Kathy H. for the suggestion of using Minwax Natural instead of the mineral spirits to lighten! Also, the idea of Deft Gloss Wood finish is worth trying...thanks Linda in 'small town, USA' Congratulations Christine on your 2, first place prizes! And especially it being your first contest!!! Can't recall who brought up the subject of torching hairs on baskets again....'Jamax??' anyways..do NOT try to burn off hairs on a basket you have stained. You will have an immediate explosion and ball of fire. Some time ago we had quite a discussion on that and unfortunately, some tragic testimonials of fires due to torching stained baskets. Wet and/or soak your natural basket and torch away, then stain. I have enjoyed hearing the comments, seeing the pictures and catching the enthusiasm the recent basket swap caused and am so happy my health has improved enough to take part in the next swap. Thank you Gail for agreeing to coordinate it. I will e-mail you personally today. Susan in Finger Lakes, NY...your comment about the job interview was great, I laughed so much. I recently lost my job...after 27 years, it seemed I couldn't do the job right! At least it affords me time to weave in preparation for a November show. Dee in Fl, could actually feel the excitement you had in working from your white ash log. I do not work in naturals at all, but enjoy hearing about it. Would like to some day, but right now, with allergies, the thought of going into the woods for materials gets me sneezing! Lois, so glad your surgery is over and you are on the mend. Re: young doctors. Years ago, during my mom's long illness it took me some time to understand the methods of a huge teaching hosp., where the interns get practice speaking to the families. It appears as though they are the only one on a case, as you never see the experienced doctor. One day in frustration, after weeks of her being in pain, I shouted , "Bring me someone old enough to shave!!" It did get results though, even if I did feel a bit foolish. Hanna, your Grandma is in my prayers, you can count on it/ Robin in WA..how lucky you ar to live near Mt. Ranier. My day on that mountain, many years ago, has long remained a favorite. The road, the vistas, the many stops....so beautiful. Jayna in central MA, where autumn and summer are taking turns visiting. I collect napkin rings (hey, Marsha!) small boxes, friends and love to work in my flower garden and with the window boxes on the deck, and love animals, especially cats (of course my Molly is the sweetest cat of all!) Thank you Norma for reminding us how wonderful David is, he is a role model and we love him! {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: KETTLE POPCORN Date: Tue, 15 Sep 1998 10:28:00 -0500 From: "Seals, Sheila J." To: "David Collins/Weaver's Words" I saved the recipe for the Kettle Popcorn, but I was curious whether or not you had to have a special device to make this kind of popcorn. Please advise. {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Basket Stuff Date: Tue, 15 Sep 1998 12:43:29 -0400 From: Anette Meier To: davidc@iei.net Hi All!!! David... and David's Mom... Thank you for telling us a bit about yourselves. The both of you should be extremely proud of each other... it only makes me appreciate the work you've been doing even more than I did before... my heart goes out to you... Billie in Va. Beach: I also make Nantucket's and not wanting to put holes in the bases... I use two methods that seam to be successful... I, too use white wax linen or similar strong yet thin thread to tie the base to the mold... or... masking tape (the kind that draftman use, or used to use before autocad)... I make little rolls and place them in different directions on the mold, then place the base on that... just ease the weavers into place until you get to the bend in the mold and the rest just holds on nicely. The drafting tape doesn't have THAT much of a hold, but by the time you are done, it will still take a couple of "drops" to get the basket off the mold... Hope that helps... In search of a basket pattern... In the book, Shaker Baskets by Wetherbee and Taylor, there is pictured a crochet basket. It is a covered basket, with hexagonal weave in the bottom and in the lid. There is a metal grommet in the lid so the yarn doesn't get snagged. I have only seen one for sale at the Parrish Art Museum in Southampton ( $800.00 )... it was exquisite and well worth the price, but I have to hit Lotto first... Has anyone seen a pattern for this basket, or something similar??? Natural Baskets? I know what you mean when you say natural baskets, but I think that this is kind of funny, because isn't reed, ash, oak, cane, etc... natural? How about... regional, home-grown, local or like my friends say - Free Range (like it's a chicken) and Compost Basket (since some of the garden stuff may end up there)... just funny is all and by all means no insult intended (because I also say natural baskets). About an unfinished egg basket... At a show I saw the most beautiful unfinished egg basket that all the ribs, rim, handle and god's eye were dyed black... the ribs were probably #4 round, and the partial weavers (looked like #1 round) on each side were Amish colors (green, blue, cranberry)... and the weavers were neatly tied off in bundles... it was so strikingly beautiful that I would have bought it unfinished. O.K. Here is my take on L-Baskets. From listening to everyone's comments for and against L-baskets (mostly against), it seems that there is great advertising that you can use to sell YOUR baskets. Use all the things that you don't like about L-baskets to promote your own. A customer of yours can get a color to match their decor, can get a size just slightly different to fit in a special spot, can get a basket that is not a "Xerox" copy of someone else's collection. Here is the kicker... buy a small L-basket (hold on now!!!) and bring it with you to a show... have your potential customer (maybe a L-basket collector) have a hands-on comparison test... we know that L-baskets are rimmed wet, and the weavers slide when they finally dry... show that to a customer... you can line the basket that you made for them with material that they had pillows or curtains made from (can L do that?)... See where I am headed? In our forum we can put down L-baskets, but it is our competitors that we need to use their baskets to support and promote ours. Know your competitor... when pricing your baskets... get EVERY catalog you can and compare prices... we all get charts, tables and grafts with comparisons from all types of companies wanting our business... I have found that if you don't put down the competitor (even though you want to grab a customer by the throat and say why can't you see my basket is better), educate them while you show them yours against theirs, they seem to come around. And if a basket from another maker is exquisite (Zeh and Arawjo), surely the price tag on these may boost ours some, but use their information (maybe their way of displaying or attracting customers) to give you that edge. And on a local level... I am constantly amazed that during our guild shows, all the baskets made are excellent, different, and full of character, love and heart... That, you won't find in a L-basket... There is a niche for everyone, the tough part is finding it... Now that I am out of breath... the smell of coffee is calling... and a nesting set of Nantucket rims to scarf... Take care for now, and happy weaving!!! Anette {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Re: "Weavers Words" V. 2 I. 39 Date: Tue, 15 Sep 1998 12:46:29 -0400 From: "Carty's" Organization: Pinelands Folk Music Center To: David Collins References: 1 Hi, to everyone, I am entering my busy season too, I teach at the adult night school near my home and I am wanting to hear if enough people signed up to have the class. As some of you already know I also teach dulcimer. So if all of my classes have enough people I will be out of the house four nights a week for eight weeks. I just wanted to post a note to let anyone who might be passing threw my neck of the woods. On Sept. 27th we are having a pig roast for my husbands 50th birthday. He never though that he would make it to be fifty so we are having a big celebration. Anyone passing threw are welcome to stop in. The shop will be closed that day. It is really starting to look like autumn here in NJ. Someone mentions about being to burnt out to demo at a show. When I demo I usually do an egg basket that is already started. I do the gods eyes, and do a few rows of weaving so the spokes won't keep popping out. I usually do a pretty big one like 18inches or bigger. This way I can even let the kids that pass by help me a little. A lot of people sign up for classes this way. I also will take with me baskets that need to just be lashed. I always seem to sell the ones that I am working on. I have had people come back to see if I was done yet with a basket. I guess they figure they know for sure that I made it. I have even had people take my picture of me working on a basket and then want to buy the basket. I have not been able to figure people out and never will. If you travel this way in the future, stop in and say hi the coffee is always on at the Folk Center and there is always someone weaving or playing the dulcimer. IN PEACE!!!!! njweaver2 Mary Carty P>S> for anyone who keeps a prayer list could you please add my native friend Kenny Hamilton, he was in a bad car wreck and has a broken neck. We are waiting to hear how he is doing. Thanks {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Bye for Now Date: Tue, 15 Sep 1998 13:48:16 -0400 From: "Ann H. Ridgeway" Organization: AnnCrafted To: davidc@iei.net We leave for the airport in one hour, just had too much to say and too little time to say it. We'll be sending pictures from the Festival in Lichtenfels when we return. Then maybe, just maybe, I'll get caught up and write in a proper note. Ann in Alexandria, VA {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Re: "Weavers Words" V. 2 I. 39 Date: Tue, 15 Sep 1998 14:06:15 EDT From: froggestow@juno.com (Roberta R Comstock) To: davidc@iei.net References: 1 "Weavers Words" Vol. 2 Iss. 39 Lesley - in upstate NY - Royalwood carries a number of waxed linen pouch patterns, in addition to an excellent selection of waxed linen. Re: weaving with metals: Someone wove a silver miniature basket for the first WW basket swap. I ordered the book _Textile Techniques in Metal: for Jewelers, Textile Artists & Sculptors_ by Arline M. Fisch (ISBN 0-937274-93-3) via the bookstore David has set up on the WW web page. It was published in 1996 by Lark Books, Ashville, NC at $26.95. The Amazon price was considerably less than that and delivery via Priority Mail was prompt. The book is wonderful! Chapters cover history, tools & materials, Weaving, Knitting, Crochet, Braiding, Interlinking, Basketry, Knotting, and a pictorial survey of contemporary work. It is profusely illustrated and includes, sizes of hooks, needles and metal measurements, an index, an outstanding bibliography sorted by technique, and a list of suppliers of tools and metals sorted by country (USA, Canada, United Kingdon, Australia, & Japan). I highly recommend it! Gail Caron - Your swap rules are very sensible and practical, including the subscribers list cut-off date. Carolyn Black - Thanks for the Good suggestions for decorating baskets with sponge painting. Pam Feix - Although I often use naturals, I also use a lot of reed and it doesn't bother me a bit to have additional baskets that are all reed. I'm keeping you and your Grandma in my thoughts and hoping things go well for you. Bert Comstock, Independence, MO {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Re: "Weavers Words" V. 2 I. 38 Date: Tue, 15 Sep 1998 14:06:15 EDT From: froggestow@juno.com (Roberta R Comstock) To: davidc@iei.net References: 1 "Weavers Words" V. 2 I. 38 (B): Barb Foster - Thanks for the info about Sievers School of Fiber Arts. I am finding that there are many wonderful sources of workshops and classes that I never dreamed existed. I think I need to lay out a calendar of opportunities for 1999 and see what will fit in my budget and schedule. So many fascinating basket teachers to meet and places I've never been... If money wasn't a constraint, I'd try them all! I'm with you on the book issue. I love finding copies of the classic basket references, and am also glad to hear of new publications. And I do, occasionally, come up with a duplicate that I wouldn't mind selling off. Anna in Tasmania - I weave with both reed and naturals, sometimes in the same basket. So far, I use more reed, but that is mostly because I haven't been able to get or process as many naturals as I would like to have. I like and appreciate both kinds of baskets. My parts list for the basket I made for Patty includes: driftwood handle, vine rattan ribs (from craft wreaths), Elmer's glue (to hold ribs in holes), Rit-dyed round and flat reed, smoked flat reed, mulberry sapling inner bark, rushes, white birch bark, raffia, found stone with natural hole, jute cord, waxed linen thread, black artificial sinew, and seashells (also with natural holes - possibly from clam borers - not eroded on the beach). I suspected from your talk of gathering natural materials that we might have a lot in common. Enjoy your driftwood hunt. Does your friend also weave? You might be able to peel the bark from some of your apple prunings. It would be good for weaving too. Your apple branches remind me of one of my favorite old (possibly antique?) baskets which I hope to duplicate someday. It is about 25 inches long 10 inched deep and 10 inches wide at the base, Flaring somewhat at the rim. It is made of wide (1 to 2 inches) splints of dark wood (walnut?) and branches (maybe plum or cherry), with the bark on, whole for the handles and rim, split for the lateral spokes. It has bushel type handles on the short ends. It is probably a one- of-a-kind opportunistic basket. Very sturdy and utilitarian. Carolyn of Suffolk - Your hickory stain sounds great to me. You might try more of it on some reed scraps to see how it looks in a darker version. I see I need to gather some hickory nuts soon. What did you 'cook' it in? It might be darker if boiled in an iron pot. Gail Caron - Bravo! I'm glad you're taking the bull by the horns and forging ahead with the 2nd WW basket swap! Are you sticking with the $10 limit on cost of materials? I think that's a reasonable amount. Do you have a copy of Joy's list of who wove for whom? If so, are you going to try to avoid duplications? If that's not too much extra effort, I think it would be a good thing to do. (And, although it has been widely commercialized and has many secular aspects, let's remember that Christmas IS essentially a religious holiday). Kathy - I envy your lessons with Aunty Pua! You've struck it rich there! It would be wonderful if you (or someone) could tape some of her teaching and story talking. You (or they) could write a book, or at least an article for a magazine. (Maybe _Piecework_ or _Shuttle, Spindle & Dye Pot_ ??!!) Billie in Va. Beach - Sure got a chuckle from your stuck-on-the mold story! You're an interesting story teller. I always enjoy your posts. Of course, that one got me to thinking about other ways to attach the base to the mold. I wonder if a few drops of hot wax would work? That could probably be broken loose by a couple of taps on the base with a well-padded hammer. (P): Kathie C Anderson - Nobody says we all have to love the same things in the same priority order. Cook books are one of the types I collect. I especially like historic cook books. It's amazing what you can find and learn when you start digging around! Viva diversity! Anna in Tasmania - I don't know if glucosamine will help your arthritis. I hope your doctor thinks it's worth a try. What is the subject of your mural? That's another thing I plan to do one of these days... :=) Bert Comstock on a lazy Sunday in cool and rainy Independence, MO {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: stamping Date: Tue, 15 Sep 1998 14:24:01 EDT From: whoville4@juno.com (Brian/Diane D Vanden Heuvel) To: davidc@iei.net References: 1 Hey everyone! David you are amazing, and I so admire you for all that you are able to do, and for putting up with all of us. You are so appreciated. There has been many comments lately on stamping on baskets. My other hobby is stamping, and I have experimented with it on baskets. The technique that I have found that works the best is to do embossing. You can either use colored embossing inks, and clear embossing powder, or you can use the clear ink and the silver, gold or many other embossing powders. I have found that stamping works the best on Maple or something like it. Regular reed is not flat enough to get a good image. All the stamping that I have done I have done before I wove it into the basket. I did one of a border of strawberries in Black embossing outline, and then I used markers to color it in. The problem was that when the marker got wet it ran. I didn't soak the strip itself, but the dampness of the weavers ran it. I then began to use a sealing spray which helped, but if it were to get really wet it would be ruined. I know that there are permanent markers out there I just chose not to invest in them. The embossing technique is probably the best. I have also tried the sponge painting idea. I did it on tulip napkin basket pattern. I sponged the piece in navy and hunter green just randomly, and then used navy and hunter reed on each side, with a hunter braided border. It turned out wonderful, and it was so easy. There has been some mention as to the natural versus reed weavers. I am a reed weaver, but only because I haven't been exposed to any of the natural weaving methods. I would love to learn some of them, and someday as time and finances allow I hope to be able to do that at some of the conventions and such. As far as swapping them though I would love to receive one of the 'naturals'. That would be awesome to be able to receive something that I myself can't create right now. I'm not sure how the natural weavers feel about receiving something reed. I will not be able to participate in the next swap, as it's a bit soon after the last one, and with moving and such I can't take the time. A swap next year sounds wonderful. I liked the suggestion of one in Jan/Feb timeframe as that is a slow time, and the Aug/Sept timeframe was good too. I wish all of you that participate a fun time. I enjoyed the last one. Diane from Beloit where we just received some badly needed rain, but the sun should return soon. {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Zapped by Lightning! Date: Tue, 15 Sep 1998 15:38:32 -0400 From: "Beverly Seegert" To: "Weavers Words" Three weeks ago my computer was zapped by lightning and my computer has been down ever since. After fighting some very unscrupulous repairmen, I finally had it fixed and now "I'm back." In the meantime, many of you sent me e-mail messages which I did not receive until yesterday. I am sorry for any inconvenience and I am answering your queries regarding "black creek country news" as fast as my little fingers can fly over the keyboard. A web site for "black creek country" is presently in the development stages. As soon as it is up and running, I will post a message here at Weavers' Words to let you know. Beverly Seegert -- in "black creek country", where the leaves on the old maple tree down at the bend in the river are beginning to turn a fiery red! {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: swap & pine needles. Date: Tue, 15 Sep 1998 12:44:41 -0700 From: "Ames, Kay H" To: "'Weaver's Words'" To the person who mentioned she has pine needles available - would you please e-mail me separately. I have just had someone ask me for a connection and I did not save your name. Thank you. Gail Caron - your swap rules make great sense. Thanks for taking on the task, making those executive decisions, and whipping us into shape! It sounds like there are plenty who want to participate, so those that don't have time for this one will have another chance soon, as long as there is another courageous volunteer to organize it. I prefer to be surprised by my basket swapper, and although I do weave in naturals, I am delighted to get a basket of any sort. Undoubtedly, whatever it is will not be something that I weave myself and even if it were, it is the expression of the sender, and as such will be treasured. I do weave in reed as well, but being a VERY TIGHT (some might say uptight?) weaver, I find flat reed projects a challenge. I would hope that we would all receive our baskets in the spirit with which they were sent, and if disappointed, we should tactfully avoid mentioning it. No one should feel daunted or intimidated as this is supposed to be for fun. Sermon over. I am getting some great ideas from all of you, too numerous to mention. I really appreciate all your suggestions and hints. I like to hear of new products available, and all the news of your families and lives, and see the pictures, and visit the website. Really, I wouldn't change a thing about WW. Most of all, Thank You David for being the hub at the center of this whirlwind of basketry. You make it happen for all of us, and you are doing a great job!!! Kay Harradine in unseasonable Mount Vernon, Washington, where it is 80 today, 45 overnight, and no rain in 6 weeks. {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Re: "Weavers Words" V. 2 I. 39 Date: Tue, 15 Sep 1998 16:37:23 EDT From: DeeGrin@aol.com To: davidc@iei.net Hi everyone, Just going to try and reply as I forget what I want to respond to it I don't do it right away. David, please thank your Mother for sending us the information about you. I already appreciated all you do and so pleased that you have made such a significant impact on so many people. I look forward to my Weaver's Word so much. Just don't have time to look up all the info you are sending. And to think I'm Retired!! Getting ready to go to Atlanta to visit my daughter that is a Vet. next week and then back home and have everything ready for a show that Sunday. Never know how many baskets is the right amount to take. any suggestions on that? for a one day and a two day show? Had to take time out from my weaving today to can the most beautiful tomatoes. If you ever come to Florida and the Strawberry festival stop at Parksdales Farm. They put tomatoes that may have one little spot out by the boxfull occasionally for $2.00 and I just can't pass them up. The ones in the stores are much worse and last week were $1.79/lb. Anyway, Plant City is the Strawberry center of the world, but really are grown in Dover!!! Bert have you ever heard of Hillcreek Fibre news. I receive it and if you don't ,let me know and I'll send you info. She has all kind of weaving and spinning workshops, not baskets but everything else and is located in Columbus Mo. I meant her at a Rendezvous they hold in Plant City yearly. Joy, I think it was you that sent me information on pounding and splitting my log. thanks, every bit helps. I usually take a Large gathering basket already started using 1/4 inch reed in continuous weave to do while at a show and that seems to spark an interest. Easy to pick up and put down and if I finish it I take some of my miniature brown ash and do small cathead free form weaving. My walnut stain, got a little scum the first month, I just skimmed it off and have never had trouble with it again. I have left the walnuts in there over two years. Maybe the heat in Florida helps. I keep a tight lid on it and it doesn't smell. I get a real dark brown in one container and lighter ones in others. Just dip and let hang on the fence. If any residue stays off I wipe it off with a brush. In Florida everything dries very fast just don't leave it out in the rain cause it will wash out. I have always practiced knitting with out looking so I could always have a craft to do when I grow older. My daughter wanted to learn how to knit again last year and said it was always so relaxing to her while growing up to watch me knit and the rhythm of the knitting was so comforting. I really have great daughter(3) An doctor, a Methodist Minister and the Veterinarian. My husband and I are attending a mini medical school sponsored by our local Medical school so got to rush. Tonight subject is carpal tunnel!! Even though I'm a nurse feel I can always learn something new. Dee in Dover, Fl. {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Date: Tue, 15 Sep 1998 17:42:10, -0500 From: BDKE97B@prodigy.com (MRS BILLIE A DORRIS) To: davidc@iei.net Susan, I really don't worry whether or not the stain mildews. I just stir through it and use it as is. I do wipe off the basket if something gross is sticking to it. It smells to high heaven but since I'm doing it outside I just try not to breath to much while standing over it. I have had the entire trashcan freeze solid when I left it outside when we lived in New Jersey. Didn't seem to affect it at all. Thanks for the tip on using waxed linen thread to tie the base on. Seems as if I thought of that at one time and then for who knows what reason I forgot. I often seem to try to do things the hard way. Anything has to be better than the way I did it last time. I had done another with the sticky tape and it seemed to come off easier. It wasn't as heavy a mold so maybe that helped. Of course since I didn't have to experiment also helped. Can't remember what else I wanted to reply to so will stop for now. Billie in Va. Beach. {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: WW Date: Tue, 15 Sep 1998 20:41:22 -0400 From: "Chris Baker" To: David Collins Many of you have emailed me & asked when I was going to post a new FREE pattern on my website. I now have the new one up. Also, I have been asked about keeping past free patterns on the site, & I replace the old one each time to save space. Some of you have emailed me about the links to the new patterns not showing up right on the site. I have clicked through them using my web browser & they all look right on my end. Try hitting the refresh or reload button on your web browser. Here's a tip for those of you with Netscape: Hit reload and the shift key on your keyboard at the same time. That's kind of like a super reload. I will list all the links individually below, this has seemed to work for others I have replied to as well. FREE pattern: http://w3.ime.net/~cbaker/freepattern.htm Little Country Market: http://w3.ime.net/~cbaker/market.htm Stair Step Wanna-be: http://w3.ime.net/~cbaker/lamp.htm Mini Mitten Basket by Susan Vogel: http://w3.ime.net/~cbaker/mitten.htm Computer Companion by Susan Vogel: http://w3.ime.net/~cbaker/ComCom.htm Raggedy Pals Lamp: http://w3.ime.net/~cbaker/raggedypal.htm Chris Baker Days Gone By Augusta, Maine http://w3.ime.net/~cbaker/ online catalog:(updated 9-14-98) http://w3.ime.net/~cbaker/catalog.htm NOW ACCEPTING VISA & MASTER CARD! {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} If for any you would ever like to cancel your subscription, simply send me a message with "unsubscribe" as your subject.