"Weavers Words" Vol. 2 Iss. 49 Date Sent: October 05, 1998 Subscribers: 809 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, (P) I've entered my little cousin, Jace, into a baby photo contest on the net. I would appreciate it if you would go vote for him every day for the next week. To vote for Jace go to: http://babyzone.com/babyvote.htm You can also check out Jace's web page that I made for him. Be sure to sign his guestbook and tell him how adorable he his. The address is: http://www.angelfire.com/in/DavesBeaniePage (B) I would like to thank Ms. Brenda Johnson for her donation. Even though it's not neccesary, it's nice to get the mail and receive something other than bills and junk mail. (B) We already have 74 recipes. I have revamped the recipe page. It loads much faster and is easier to navigate. Upon your request I've added to more categories to the Recipes Page: Crock-Pot Recipes & Non-Edible Recipes. Keep 'Em Comin'. http://www.iei.net/~davidc/recipes.html Take Care, David davidc@iei.net {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: hello from the Adirondack Mtns Date: Sun, 4 Oct 1998 20:49:18 -0400 From: "msdoo" To: Dear David; I have recently signed on to weavers words and I have read been reading about the wonderful base filler technique that someone wrote in and gave directions for. Sorry to back track, but I would love to have someone send it to me also. It sounds great!!! I am also interested in getting an idea on how to mix minwax with linseed oil to get a nicer look to the stained reed. What is the ratio of stain to linseed oil? I live in the Adirondacks of NYS and the fall foliage is really beautiful. I rode the Adirondack Railroad today for the first time and it was great. Greetings from someone who still wishes it was summer!! MSDOO {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: RE: "Weavers Words" V. 2 I. 48 Date: Sun, 4 Oct 1998 22:13:00 -0400 From: Susan Tripp To: "'David Collins'" First of all, twining around a base is a technique, not a shortcut for lazy weavers. I enjoyed taking classes from different teachers at our college because I learned something new from each teacher - even on the same basket. I took a wreath class from a teacher at our college who taught several classes there. The end product was a joke. This teacher even said to us in class "less is more". Then she said, "Well, at least at our shop because then we make more money on that concept!" Well, our wreaths were pretty sparse, and I called the college the next day to complain and they didn't ask any questions, just refunded my money. They then took it up with the teacher. I would definitely let the college know. They will continue to let her teach or not investigate unless they get complaints. Next, I am really surprised at the responses over the three swap people. I bet those of you who are so adamant that it was wrong to publish the names have all received your baskets. I would be furious to not have receive a basket. There has been plenty of time to explain a problem. And what about the one who unsubscribed to WW? (I'm pretty sure I remember reading that???) If she had enough time to e-mail David to unsubscribe, then she had enough time to send a quick note to Joy or the poor soul who didn't get her much-awaited basket. I personally would have mailed those three a paper letter to the address they provided requesting an explanation just incase they have computer problems. I am just shocked that this happened. I think after the deadline, anyone not receiving a basket should have their partner's name published by the organizer. It doesn't have to have a "deadbeat" label, just a friendly reminder or a nudge for those who need prodding to meet deadlines. Or, if something dreadful did happened in someone's life, posting their names would not be so bad if someone else knew them and could offer an explanation before they get a bad label. And, to Patty: I, as you all could have guessed by now, would definitely list the name of this person who has not paid you- especially since this has happened to others. Why not? It is only a friendly heads-up to your weaver friends to not get caught in the same trap as those of you who have already been stiffed. There are a lot of sources for baskets supplies amongst this group of 800 subscribers, and this person could be getting a good number of years of free supplies if someone doesn't stop her. Let's see, would I rather not post this person's name and give up my privilege of being billed because of people like her, or keep my privilege and see her name posted somewhere - like bad checks get posted in stores? I can hear some of you cringing and shaking your head at me now, but that's okay. I really am a kind-hearted person, but I believe is telling it like it is. Susan from upstate NY {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: For Weavers Words Fw: Answers for Marty H. Date: Sun, 4 Oct 1998 22:37:52 -0400 From: "mkoch" To: Hi Marty (and all members) Turpentine is used to process reed. Yes, they do use heavy duty pesticides on the crops, therefore, you do not want to put reed in your mouth. Dyes contain all types of chemicals, therefore, never use your dye pot for anything other than dying. Once your basket is woven, using natural and dyed reed, you can seal it with your "Weaver's Stain" which is totally NON-Toxic once completely dry. With any type of stain, whether an aerosol or brush on, there is always some odor or fumes, etc. This goes without saying. You have the same circumstances whether you are pumping gas into your car, painting your living room or staining your basket. These days we need to beware of how much aspirin you are taking at one time. The most important rule of thumb is "to know your products" and how to use them. If you are dying reed, or staining your basket: do this in a well ventilated area. OUTSIDE. If you notice that you get a headache when doing these tasks, you may want to use a disposable dust mask and plastic gloves. We use: rit dye and Weaver's Stain consistently (especially the Weaver's Stain :) probably because we know its weaver friendly and we have plenty on hand. If you are concerned about the reed: If you notice your reed water is dark or have a heavy residue collecting on the waters surface, you may want to soak your reed in bleach water for a few minutes and rinse thoroughly. Start again with fresh water. Do not let your pets drink from the reed water. Do not let it sit overnight, they could get into it. Be safe, and dump it. Do NOT eat finger foods while weaving. Wash your hands before eating. BEWARE of products that contain TOLUENE in them. There is so much controversy over this chemical. We have read that it can cause birth defects, reproductive harm and is a possible #2 carcinogen. In my book, that means stay away. Weaver's Stain DOES NOT contain this chemical, but several stains and paints do. So read your labels. We could go on and on and on, but we won't. If you have any questions, regarding Weaver's Stain, please don't hesitate to ask. The Weaver's Stain Family {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: aloha Date: Sun, 04 Oct 1998 21:58:05 -1000 From: The Keener Clan To: davidc@iei.net Aloha! The fair was a stinker--the 3rd worst I*ve ever done. It wasn*t a well publicized fair (our daily paper lists the fairs on the Friday before and when I saw it wasn*t listed, I began to have doubts). I had a pretty poor spot, and the wind blew so hard, my staked tent nearly collapsed and we chased baskets all day. I sell a basket called Bridget*s Irish Market (named after my first born) and the woman who bought it said her Irish mother told her to never name her child "Bridget" as only maids were called that (hmm--did I really need to hear that?). But my hubby said we at least had the day to spend together and that was most important of all. My friend, Caroline Prevost, stains her baskets with tea/coffee and her recipe is: 6 tablespoons instant coffee and 4 tablespoons instant tea in a small amount of warm water. Place this in a 32 oz spray bottle and add more warm water to fill container. Spray on your basket, let dry and repeat. I remember seeing, back on the mainland, a commercial basket wash (by Jadvick?)--Is that still around and has anyone used it? A word about sweet Gail--she did what she felt was right and I*m not sure she deserves the hassle she is getting. She is volunteering to put this swap together for the benefit of WW*s members and she did what she thought was best, so please no more judgmental remarks. I spent today weeding the garden (yes, weeds grown here all year long--) and cleaning the basketroom. It looks so good now, I don*t want to weave and mess it up again...but tomorrow it is time to start on another fair.(after a long meditation session under the plumeria!) Speaking of fairs, when you do one, do you visit and chat with other weavers? I*ve found here, at least, that doesn*t happen. I like to chat with other weavers, spread the word about the guild, ask what sources they use, etc., but I find I*m one of the few who does this. I always have Richard in my booth so I can come and go and understand if a person is there alone, but for the most part, they aren*t. Hope your weekend was sunny and enjoyable. Lois Honolulu {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Web Site Date: Mon, 5 Oct 1998 10:52:14 -0400 From: "Beverly Seegert" To: "Weavers Words" For many of you who have inquired about "black creek country news -- the magazine for basketweavers" ---- The web site is on-line. I hope it will provide you with all the answers to your questions about the magazine. If there is anything else, just e-mail me directly. The address is www.flash.net/~jonbouy/blackcreek.html Kay Janke -- No, unfortunately you will not be able to attend any of the special programs at the AMB Convention unless you are a registered participant. Saturday is Public Day when you can pay $2 (I think less if you are a member) to come into the Exhibit Room, the Vendor Area, and I think also the Pattern Room (can't remember for sure about the Pattern Room -- maybe someone else knows for sure). The hours are something like 9am - 5pm. The special programs are scheduled in the evening (classes are held during the day) and are open only to registered participants. It is still definitely worthwhile to come Saturday to see the wonderful baskets exhibited and to see all the vendors with supplies, patterns, and other basket related items. Leslie Johnson -- It was good to talk to you at the craft show in Adrian last Saturday. Your baskets are beautiful. Beverly Seegert in "black creek country", -- Where the late summer-planted lettuce will soon be ready to cut {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Re: "Weavers Words" V. 2 I. 48 Date: Mon, 05 Oct 98 10:21:56 PDT From: pywoodbury@worldnet.att.net To: "David Collins" References: 1, 2 Hi Weavers., I know some of you think Gail was being harsh and cruel in calling the shirkers deadbeats, but you have to stop and realize that all basket makers are not wonderful, honest people. I have been in the basket business for 111/2 years. I have not received many bad checks throughout these years, but I have received them. I have never had somebody not pay but I have had people who I had to wait forever to get paid. I understand that there are extenuating circumstances but I have had a time in my life where my son was injured very badly in an automobile accident and my life was devastated but I knew I had made promises and commitments that needed some explanation. I was scheduled to teach the morning after he was hurt. Calling the place I was teaching and taking one minute although I had other things on my mind did me no harm and they were so nice and understanding. It was far better than my not showing up and all the students getting the opinion that I was a deadbeat. I received a bad check from a convention student. It was a check written by a student who I noticed all weekend having a grand old time. It was a small convention so everybody saw and met everybody. I cashed my checks and not only did this check not clear but my bank charged me another $10 for me processing a bad check. After 3 months of dumb excuses about why she hadn't paid I called the convention committee. They were apologetic and assured me they would pay me and try to collect the money, but that she would no longer be allowed to write a check to the conventions. Well I told them lets wait just a little longer and if I hadn't received it in the next month I would let them handle it. I did finally receive the check and I am sure after she was threatened by the Board of Directors of this Assn. The moral of the story is every year when I go to this convention and see her the first thing that comes to my mind is that she wrote me a bad check and gave me the runaround for 4 months. I personally would be too embarrassed to do this. I am not saying that accidentally a bad check cannot be written, what I am saying that taking 4 months to make it good proves it was no accident. It is also embarrassing for me when somebody orders something from me and I have to call and remind them several times that they have not paid. I give 30 days same as cash and that is amble time to pay. If you do not have the money, then don't order the product. I have a policy 30 days same as cash or $1 late fee to cover the phone calls or postage. Funny thing is the people that have to be constantly reminded to pay never bother to send the extra $1. The other part that ticks me is that they always have some dumb excuse why they didn't pay. A legitimate excuse is understandable, but I'd rather have no excuse than some dumb reason why they didn't pay. For someone who asked about the people that go to AMB convention on Sat. as visitors, I do not think that not registered convention participants are able to go to the evening programs. I am not an expert on this and am sure there are lots of people on the convention committee that could answer this better than me but from past experience the people who go for the day on Sat. are only allowed in the vendors area, pattern room and exhibit room and all the convention classes and programs are off limit. Kay I am so glad you reminded us about the red ribbons. I have been getting my classes ready for convention as well as getting ready for craft shows and my poor old mind can only remember so many things. I think I need to put a red ribbon in my overnight case now so I am sure to have it. Pam From WInter is on the way Michigan {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Weavers Words Date: Mon, 5 Oct 1998 12:46:52 -0500 From: Karen Mitchell To: "'David Collins'" Hi everyone, Just heard from my brother - the electric is back on in Key West - the water is on, but they still have a boil order. He said that things are starting to look better. Kathleen Fullerton: It's too bad you had such a bad experience with that teacher - I agree with several others that you should contact the college. I'll just keep doing that lazy woman's way of weaving as am sure others will. I think twining always make the basket look nicer. Pam: Thanks for the concern about my brother from someone who really does know HOW we worry when then decide to "weather out the storm". Also, I'm sorry to hear the news about your Grandma. Just accept whatever decision she makes on deciding whether or not to take the chemo. It'll be just as hard for her to decide. Record what you can NOW about your Grandma - I have movies, pictures and audio tapes that I truly treasure. Get as much family history as you can. I recently put together a family book of my Dad's seven brothers and sisters and his parents. The book was such a big hit. Thank God for computers and printers and scanners...... You take care - you both are in my prayers. I'll light a candle at church for you on Sunday.... I must get back to work now!!! Weaving in weary-wainy St. Louis Karen Mitchell {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Re: "Weavers Words" V. 2 I. 48 Date: Mon, 5 Oct 1998 14:30:03 -0400 From: "Donna" To: "David Collins" To all Weavers - NO, reed is not sprayed with insect spray. Containers (box cars on ships) are fumigated with exactly the same chemicals used on coffee, tea, herbs, spices and whatever else edible comes from that area of the world. Yes, it is to kill the insects, but except for those allergic to the specific chemical make-up, it is harmless to the rest of us. True, you should never put anything in your mouth except food, as you never know who handled it before you. Except that I've been doing it for over 20 years and is just like a third hand as far as I'm concerned in chair caning - keeps my piece straight while pulling the rest through the seat. I never have to stop and untangle before going on to the next section. I soak it in hot water & hopefully it kills off at least some of the germs. Patti - As a business owner, I would absolutely love to have access to other's "deadbeat" customers - BUT, a few years ago, several of us discussed the possibility of circulating a list among ourselves and were advised that by putting anything like this in writing, we could be opening ourselves up for a liable suit. We all know that some of these people just go from business to business passing bad checks or not paying at all. So the only thing we can do is verbally pass the information around. It's really surprising how the same people pop up on all of our lists. Cool & sunny in PA today - why can't it be like this all year long?? Donna http://www.countryseat.com {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Go prepared Date: Mon, 5 Oct 1998 15:08:27 -0500 From: jeancmay@juno.com (jean c may) To: davidc@iei.net Hi Everybody! I know many of you are preparing to go to the AMB convention in a couple of weeks and I thought I'd pass along a tool list that Jim Rutherford published a couple of years ago. I think it covers most of the basic requirements and of course keep in mind that some classes and teachers do require special tools now and then, so keep some cash on hand to purchase those along the way. Sharp cutters: the basket cut shears are great TWO awls: a flat one and a pointed one Needle nose pliers: these are indispensable! Tape measure Ruler Clothespins: a couple different sizes are good Dish pan or bucket Old towel Pocket knife; one that will hold an edge Sand paper or egg sander Spoke weight Pencil & pencil sharpener Spray bottle Also, check your convention brochure or class confirmation for any specific tools required for your particular class. Believe it or not I had 2 students show up one time without one single thing listed above! They went shopping on their lunch break, needless to say. I tend to be tool obsessive sometimes.....that's not to say I take EVERYTHING I own, because I fly.....I just want MINE (sort of like your own hair brush). I've also had students show up looking like the lineman for the county! They're the ones who brought every tool they own (and obviously did not fly) and probably have back problems! Re: miniatures....Linda Boyle Gibson (lboylegibson@juno.com) has a selection called "Mini Marathon" and they are darling! About 12 different mini baskets that look great on a grapevine wreath, picket fence or as tree ornaments. These patterns are sold individually or as a group. These would make a great project to do for the holidays. Maybe your guild is decorating a tree for charity or at a local nursing home? Patti Hawkins (pphawkins@juno.com) has designed a lovely necklace she calls "Twill Babies" . There are several twill patterns available and I believe a selection of colors too. These are done in ash and are in kit form which includes the mold and everything you'll need to complete the project. Great gift idea (if you dare part with it?)! They are also available through Gratiot Lake at the same cost of about $22 + shipping. Both of these gals will be at the Teacher Marketplace in Grand Rapids too.....tell them I sent you, it won't get you any special deals I'm sure but might be fun to see what kind of response there is. Make yourself known to me in MI.....have a safe trip there. I'm looking forward to seeing the beautiful fall colors and slightly cooler weather. Here the low 80's is cooler! Jean Cadmus May League City TX {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Weaver's Words Date: Mon, 5 Oct 1998 13:25:32 -0700 From: hannah To: "'davidc@iei.net'" Dear Weaver's Words Family, I just want to say a huge THANK YOU to each and every one of you for the kind thoughts, prayers, and caring for me and my Grandma. I didn't write in here to tell you about her to upset anyone or for any sympathy, I just wanted prayers for my Grandma. It has also given me an outlet to express my emotions as I cannot do this at home, because I don't want to upset her. You are all truly wonderful and special people. Thank you all for caring. Pam Feix {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Date: Mon, 5 Oct 1998 19:42:04 -0400 From: "eskbaskets" To: "david collins" Hello everyone from Betty Kourkounakis(alias the sinus congestion and bronchitis queen)... Thanx, whoever it was, for reminding us about the red ribbons on the nametags at AMB conv. I don't know that I'll be able to meet anybody at specific times, but I'll keep my eyes open for the ribbons. I'm teaching a class Fri. AM and Sun AM, and will be at teacher's marketplace on Fri PM; if any of you would like to stop by and say hello, that would be great!!! Just look in the conv. handbook for my location. Patti Hawkins- Great to hear from you! Seeing as you asked- I think I would cut my losses with this person who stiffed you and leave it at that. Revenge rarely pays, and you can rejoice knowing that your own conscience is clear. End of input. See you at conv. Those of you who do pray- I would appreciate some prayer on my behalf regarding the chronic asthmatic bronchitis I have been plagued with for the last 2 years. Right now I'm struggling to get over an episode of it (now with a cold on top of it) And stay well for convention. I've been seeing a specialist but so far no improvement. AND I've tried all the herbal stuff, too, with no improvement. It's frustrating!! BUT I'm determined to remain thankful regardless- there is indeed SOOOOO much to be grateful for. All for now from not-cool-enough-NE Ohio, where I covet Jayna's central Mass. weather. My husband and I lived in Winchendon, Ma. for 7 yrs) {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Re: "Weavers Words" V. 2 I. 48 Date: Mon, 5 Oct 1998 21:21:27 EDT From: DeeGrin@aol.com To: davidc@iei.net Hi David and all fellow weavers!! I think I may have learned how to edit and reply so I can remember what I wanted to reply to. If it works I will tell you how I did it next time!! David, I will check out Jace's web page and send in my vote!! Donna - Think I will try one of those Christmas stockings this year. Your suggestion made it sound easier to do. Gretchen-For walnut stain, I use well water and never have boiled mine. Just put them in a 5 gallon pail with a lid and fill up with water and let it set at least a couple of weeks. I keep one that is real dark I never add water to it and then the other ones are lighter in color. I just dip the basket or ladle it over large baskets and it is very dark. Maybe the Florida heat is good for it. It doesn't smell any more, and never gets a scum on it. Marty thanks for all the info on the toxins. I did not realize that walnut hulls were toxic. Have never used sprays because I felt they would be toxic. Did not realize that Rit dye was that toxic too. I am glad to hear you have recovered from cancer and can appreciate your concerns about chemicals. Laurie: Regarding Miniature Baskets. I have been quite successful in using John McGuire's Book BASKETRY THE SHAKER TRADITION. to teach myself how to make miniature basket with hand pounded brown ash. It is more expensive but so relaxing to work with and flexible and comes out so beautiful. Even learned how to carve my miniature handles from this book. Royalwood has brown ash reasonably priced and also have miniature molds and kits by Martha Wetherby, which are expensive but good to learn on. Good luck. I also use the electrician's ties and they work good. Another great tip I got that has been a life saver to my large wooden dining table that I use for my basket weaving is a quilters mat. You can measure and lay out your basket and it protects your work area from water and sanding etc. I can hardly work without it. Had to buy a new one for my sewing!! Pam, I am so sorry to hear about your Grandmother's diagnosis. My prayers will be with both of you that she does not suffer too much. My daughter loves her grandmother like you love yours so can appreciate how you feel. I just lost a very dear friend who had been under chemotherapy for 14 years following breast cancer. She was as very inspiring person. I too send my prayers to the family that recently lost a child. We lost our little granddaughter, Sophia over a year ago and still think of her every day even though we never got to see her or hold her. My daughter is expecting another child January and are prayers are for a healthy baby. Everything is looking good. Bert's words as always, say it so well in offering comfort. If anyone can share with us I would be like to write her so my daughter could perhaps help her through a difficult time. Janke- all your festivals sounded so great. If anyone knows of any festivals that are this weekend in North Carolina please let me know we are thinking of going on a short trip to see the leaves. Are they turning yet?? And are there any basket shops near Seagrove? Also, are there any festivals or basket shops within a two-hour drive from Evanston, IL. the week of Oct 19th - 27th. I will be there to visit my granddaughter & daughter of course! The life of a retiree!!! Did a craft show this weekend and think I did pretty good. I never have been brave enough to ask other crafters what is considered a good day! But sold 24 baskets, mostly my small ones. It was a huge show so a lot of other theme interest stuff. One other basket maker that did entirely different kind of baskets. Enjoyed showing them how brown ash is done from John McGuire's book, then weaving a miniature and showing them our first attempt at pounding a strip off our white ash log. Dee, Was going to just send a short note. Oh well! {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} If for any you would ever like to cancel your subscription, simply send me a message with "unsubscribe" as your subject.