"Weavers Words" Vol. 2 Iss. 50 Date Sent: October 08, 1998 Subscribers: 811 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, (B) I wanted to remind everyone about the Basketry Events Calendar on Weaver's Words web page. I will post any basketry events between October 1998 and December 1999. So far I have only been sent FOUR events to post. If you have an event to post please include: Name of Event, Location (City & State) and Contact (Name & Phone). The events calendar can be found at: http://www.iei.net/~davidc/events.html (B) The recipe page has been an overwhelming success. We have 77 recipes to date!!! Keep 'Em Comin'. http://www.iei.net/~davidc/recipes.html (B) Mr. Fredrick A. Kogler has placed his "Ginger Bread Boy" Basket Buckles to Weaver's Words Classifieds Page. Remember anyone can place their basketry items in the classifieds. The classifieds can be found at: http://www.iei.net/~davidc/classifieds.html (B) I would like to thank the following people for the donations and birthday cards. Mrs. Brenda Johnson Mrs. Molly Gardner Mrs. Ruthanne Morningstar Mrs. Joyce Fisher Take Care, David davidc@iei.net {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: basket swap Date: Mon, 06 Oct 1997 10:49:41 -0400 From: John Miles To: davidc@iei.net David, I have voted for Jace each day and you are right, he is adorable. I have a question about pictures of baskets for the swap. I have really enjoyed the pictures. In fact, I did not participate in the first swap because I wasn't confident enough. Then I saw some basket pictures and felt like I could participate this time. The baskets were all levels and I think that is great. Back to my question. Should we take a picture of the basket we send or should we take a picture of the basket we receive? I usually keep a photo of my finished baskets but I think it would be better if David did not receive duplicate photos. I would like to see what you think. I am off to take a class with Flo Hoppe this weekend at the Deer Creek Guild in BelAir, MD and I am so excited. This is my first class with a teacher who has written a book. Judy Miles from the Eastern Shore of MD where it is 70 and sunny. {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Re: "Weavers Words" V. 2 I. 48 Date: Mon, 5 Oct 1998 12:31:23 -0400 From: "Donna Dipzinski" To: "David Collins" Poster--Cas Wucher Reply to request for convention poster: I have (1) 1985 MI Convention Poster left in the shop. Call 800-323-4157 if interested. Donna Dipzinski Homestyle Handle Co Millington, MI 48746 {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: black walnut stain Date: Tue, 06 Oct 1998 06:45:30 -0400 From: Emberg Organization: BACHEMBERG BASKETS To: davidc@iei.net Because of iron in our well water, I use the water from the dehumidifier to thin black walnut stain. However, rainwater is wonderful for a good clear color to soak the walnuts. Ruth in chilly PA {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Re: "Weavers Words" V. 2 I. 49 Date: Tue, 06 Oct 98 09:23:56 PDT From: pywoodbury@worldnet.att.net To: "David Collins" References: 1, 2 Hi Weavers and David, David I must say every time I go into your site for WW's it is nicer and nicer. Speaking of going into David's site I went into the crock pot section of the recipe page. I am not overly crazy about cooking so will never have any terrific recipes to add but am delighted at the ones you other weavers and cookers have sent. Is cookers a word????? Anyhow I saw a recipe on TV for crock pot Homemade Macaroni and Cheese and didn't have a pen and pencil handy so was wondering if any of you great cooks had heard of it? I also am kind of envious that I didn't participate in the swap after seeing some of the gorgeous baskets that were swapped. I sure hope that 3 people don't ruin it for everyone as with only 61 signing up this time sounds like lots of us were afraid to do it. I think I am ahead of the game just a little as I have all my kits made for the AMB convention. I have most of my patterns put together for the pattern room but still need to price and put them in bundles of 10. I will be teaching all day Friday and taking a class with Judy Briscoe all day Sat. and then teaching again on Sunday so my time to meet any of you will be limited but I am going to try and remember the red ribbon, so please introduce yourself if you see me. I'll do the same when I see someone with a red ribbon. Thursday night Deb Curtis has a lecture I am planning on attending so if you meet on Thurs. I won't be able to attend but still hope to see many of you wearing red ribbons. Donna I have the same problem as you, I tend to use my mouth for my 3rd hand. I have really been trying not to do this for the past couple of years, but do occasionally still find a piece of reed in my mouth. I find I do this more often when I am lashing so it is usually cane that ends up in my mouth. Regarding walnut hull stain. I tried using it, but found that when I washed the basket the stain came out and got all over my clothes. I had been using minwax for years and always washed my baskets when they were dusty and always told customers to do the same. Well after ruining a shirt I didn't want to take the chance of customers doing the same thing so I went back to minwax. I also couldn't really stand the nasty moldy stuff that formed on the walnut stain either. Pam {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Basket Classes in Nashville area Date: Tue, 6 Oct 1998 15:08:56 -0400 From: "Judy Mullins" To: Hello everyone. I recently received an e-mail from a lady who is being transferred to Nashville. She says she wants to learn to weave baskets. She found my name on a list of basket weavers. I explained that I am 4 hrs. from Nashville, but would be willing to teach her if she wanted to spend an overnight at my log cabin. I'm always willing to teach anyone, but it would make it a lot more simple for this lady to find someone in the Nashville area. So if you would be so kind to send me e-mail, I will pass the word on to her. Thanks, Judy Mullins from Grant County, Ky. where it's around 80 degrees, breezy, and threatening rain. {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Weaver's Words Date: Tue, 6 Oct 1998 15:24:43 -0400 From: "joym" To: Hi Everybody! Isn't the WW website growing by leaps & bounds? Great! Thanks David! Kathleen~ Twining around the base is a technique which secures the "true". Your teacher sounds like she needs to learn more about positive methods of instruction & student motivation! Her saying twining makes us lazy weavers reminds me of the misnomer "Lazy Squaw Stitch" that's used on coiled baskets. Talk about time consuming (also known as WORK)! Certainly not lazy. Patty~ I don't think posting a non-payer is much different than hanging bounced checks on the wall. The evidence of intent to defraud is not as clear, but if you have substantiated that this woman has a pattern of not paying, in the least, it gives the appearance of intent. Advise her in writing that if payment is not received by a specific date, you intend to post her name for the protection of other suppliers. Send it certified mail, return receipt requested. Marty~ Thanks for posting health alert information. I think it is very important for artists & craftspeople to be knowledgeable about the materials they use. You be amazed though, how many people don't want to think about it! Lois~ Yes, Jadvick puts out a liquid product, Basket Lover, in 8 oz. jars. I have used White Linen but was not happy with the results. It seemed like I had to be constantly stirring it (how do you stir & paint at the same time?), and it did not provide the coverage I was looking for. I know other weavers who use & like it . Pam Feix~ Maybe we should have a For the Love of Grandma SWAP. Grandma's are so special. I continue to send you both my thoughts & prayers. My sweet "little" Grandma can be seen under "German ancestors" in the Culture Connection" part of my website. The year was 1896 & she is in a fabulous, ornate wicker carriage :~} Donna~ Is the reed fumigating chemical you are talking about ethylene oxide gas? Betty~ I think there is quite a difference between "revenge" and requiring people to follow through on their commitments. The first is hateful; the other has to do with the obligation we all have to be trustworthy & socially responsible. I dare say, if we were all required to simply cut our losses & forget about wrongdoings, there would be no need for jails. People need healthy boundaries. That means sometimes we need to remind them of where the lines are drawn. Well folks, I have sent my Swap basket out so watch your mail!!!! How 'bout you??? JOY Sign of the Crow http://www.signofthecrow.com P.S. Yes, I am Way early! {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Staining Question Date: Tue, 06 Oct 1998 14:40:48 -0500 From: Carol Zeller To: davidc@iei.net In the last weaver's word someone asked the ratio for stain, turpentine, and boiled linseed oil. I personally use Watco (medium walnut) or Minwax (any color of your choice). The solution I use is 1 part stain, 1 part turpentine and 1/2 part boiled linseed oil. Make sure to purchase boiled linseed oil. The regular linseed oil does not work. Regarding the AMB Convention, Public Day. The public, other than AMB members, will pay a $2.00 admission fee. This will get you into the Vendors area, and Pattern Room. The exhibit room is free of charge. You will not be able to attend Teacher's Marketplace on Saturday evening. Public is welcome from 9am to 5pm. As of now, at the AMB Convention, the Pattern Room will have well over 200 baskets displayed and patterns to go with each one that will be for sell. The people who have submitted patterns have some super instructions for some fantastic baskets. Bring lots of money because I'm sure you'll want to make some purchases. I've already got my list started. I'm the fortunate one that receives all the patterns before convention!!! Hope to see all of you there. Look me up. Carol Zeller {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Re: "Weavers Words" V. 2 I. 49 Date: Tue, 6 Oct 1998 13:59:20 -0400 From: "Donna" To: "David Collins" Greetings fellow weavers - Regarding the growing & processing of reed - Anyone who has a copy of "The Caner's Handbook" by Jim Widess, please go to page 17 and read "A Word about Rattan". For those who do not have his book, rattan is, unfortunately not a crop item. It is generally obtained as a by-product of the deforestation of an area or by family work crews sent into the jungle for months at a time for the sole purpose of harvesting rattan vines. It is a long vine that grows high up in the jungle and is pulled down by hand. Depending on the crew working the area, the vines may be boiled in used diesel oil in vats right in the jungle area, or taken to warehouse areas and treated with sulfur to initially destroy insects in the bark. This is all done long before any actual processing of the rattan takes place. Family crews may work for up to months at a time before emerging from the jungles with the vines. Please see the post I made in issue #49 regarding fumigation with the same insecticide used on other edible foodstuffs. Please folks, lets not get ourselves worked up over this. Many of you may remember what happened 10-15 years ago over this subject. We had people going way overboard and off the deep end. Many articles were published back then and nothing has changed since then. Lois - Jadvick has discontinued manufacturing ALL dyes, stains and colorwashes. We still have a limited supply of some on hand, including the water-based color wash in 6 colors. I have mixed it with water and sprayed entire baskets, or use direct from the bottle on a sponge to dye just 1 piece of reed. Donna http://www.countryseat.com {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Bits and Pieces Date: Tue, 6 Oct 1998 16:48:49, -0500 From: BDKE97B@prodigy.com (MRS BILLIE A DORRIS) To: davidc@iei.net Several thoughts have actually entered my mind while I am on line so shall try to take advantage of such a rare thing. I would be careful about publishing the name of someone who wrote you a bad check. Whoever said that it might be libel is probably right. Just because it's on the Internet doesn't mean it doesn't count as written word. Lois, when I do a show I mainly talk to the vendors around me as I am usually on my own and don't like to wander too far. Also there are just three or four of us in this area who do shows so we do chat when we meet and always ask how others have done. I did a show this past weekend and do know that I can make it selling just Nantuckets. I only sold 6 but when it is the right six it is ok. The interesting thing is that I had some reed baskets still left in the inventory and hardly anyone even looked at them after they saw the Nantuckets. Had the usual comments. tho-"my these look like the ones they weave in Charleston"(not really as they are coiled pineneedle and sweetgrass) "Are they made of pine straw?" That one always throws me as I am not sure what pine straw is. Sat was a beautiful day but I seemed to be the only person who listened to the forecast for Sun. as everyone else was surprised by the rain. And rain it did. I really got to appreciate the $1000 I spent on the new tent. The talk about the bread dough-there is a guy on the Eastern Shore of Maryland who makes the most wonderful items you have ever seen out of building materials ie foam insulation and the like. I don't know how he does it but the look absolutely real. His booth is set up like a bakery with draped table and all and you would swear that you can eat everything in there. He even has "juices" oozing out of the pies. His prices are very reasonable and I used several of his pies in my display (double pie basket) the kids are fascinated know for sure they are real. I always tell them that I know their mothers told them not to touch but if it was all right with her it was ok with me. Billie in sunny Va. Beach {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Date: Tue, 6 Oct 1998 16:56:17, -0500 From: BDKE97B@prodigy.com (MRS BILLIE A DORRIS) To: davidc@iei.net David, I am sending this message separately. I am leaving it up to you whether or not you want to include it in WW. I really didn't know what to do but since it had arisen I thought it might be best to answer. Your judgement is fine with me. I have debated about what to do about this and am not sure of the right thing but here goes anyway. I am the one who recently lost a child. My daughter Judy, the Occupational Therapist who I think I have mentioned many times on WW, took her own life in mid August. She had suffered for many years from clinical chronic depression. She was 33 years old and had never married or had children as I suspect she knew she would not be around long enough to care for them. We all thought she was doing well and will never know what it was that prompted her to do this. She was a wonderful friend as well as a daughter and I will always miss her. The only consolation that we have is that for the first time in many years she is pain free and at peace. I do appreciate everyone's thoughts and prayers. Billie Dorris {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Weavers Words Date: Tue, 6 Oct 1998 22:57:14 -0400 From: "Russell & Leslie Johnson" To: Hello everyone...I received my swap buddy's name over the weekend and I am trying to decide what to make, I am excited to be participating again, the last one was a lot of fun & I rec'd such a nice basket from Stephanie Bryne in SC. Even though I have an opinion on the posting of the names, I will pass on getting into this discussion. I am looking forward to going to the AMB. It is my first time and I will be going for public day. Many thanks to Kay Janke for all her information on the convention. Beverly Seegert: I was very nice visiting with you last Sat. too! I visited your website and it is very nice! I live along the Raisin River too, but I hope I never see those spiders! I hope you did well at the show; the sponsors said attendance was down(maybe due to the rain?) but I did ok in spite of the rain, but less than last year. Thanks for the nice words about my baskets, I think yours are beautiful as well. I will see you at the convention... Pam Feix: I was so sorry to hear the bad news about your Grandma, I will keep your Grandma, you & your family in my prayers. Your Grandma is so lucky to have you. Karen Mitchell: Good advice Karen about getting all the family history, while there is still family to ask questions of! I am deep in my family genealogy and there is so much that I will never know and it is disappointing. To add to your comment, I will say write dates and names on the photos you take today. Unfortunately I have a huge box of faces I will never have names for, even though I don't know who they are, I can't bring myself to throw them out. Well it is late and I better go put some wool wax on these sore, dry hands...Happy weaving from Leslie in Adrian, MI, where the leaves are changing color and the pressure is on to start Christmas shopping! {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Re: convention information Date: Tue, 06 Oct 1998 21:16:40 PDT From: "Kay Janke" To: davidc@iei.net Hello to all: Beverly Seegert: I am a fully registered participant for convention, have been going for a number of years, but the question of a day visitor going to one of the sessions at night has never been asked of me. That is why I asked. The day visitors can go to the vendor area and the exhibit & pattern room, unless there has been a change this year. In thinking it over, I imagine that the day visitors have a different type of identification then the convention goers. I will have the party contact one of the committee members, but I think we do know the answer already. Dee G: The festivals that we attended were interesting & informative. It was so good to see basketmaking & baskets for sale at two of them. Of course I had no reason to buy one of the baskets, but if I had, I would have bought from either of the ladies that had them, they were beautiful and very good workmanship. I do enjoy seeing other basketmaker's work. Pam W: Sorry to hear of your bad check problem. Maybe all the suppliers that are selling should have a call list, like they do in schools. The list is used for snow days & such. The first person calls her designated party, that person in turn calls the next person on the list and so on. It would be a 'pipeline' to let others know what happened and who should be put on the 'caution list! I see no problem in posting the name, if they gave you a bad check & have not ever paid the bill. I'm not sure how that could be a call for a lawsuit or slander, as you are telling the truth. Don't we have free speech? On the other hand, there are lots of frivolous lawsuits just because someone wants to 'make some money'. With e-mail these days, it would be very easy to keep in touch with the other businesses by doing a round robin. Just a thought. Kathleen F: I hope that you have given serious thought to contacting the college. The type of evaluation form that I mentioned might be something they do offer. Why don't you ask if they have one & then suggest it, let me know if you want a copy. On one of the forms filled out by one in my class, one party said that she would take the class again, as long as Kay was the teacher. I really appreciate the time that someone takes to fill out the form, because if there is something I could change or do better, I feel that it will be addressed on that form, and I do want to know about it. Sorry you got stuck with a not as good teacher. Pam F: Best wishes to you and your grandma. I think that lots of prayers are coming your way. Jean C. May: When you see me coming to your class at convention, I will have my supplies with me, and a few other things too. It has never been said that I travel lightly. I will be coming to your Spiral Bowl w/Lace Lid on Friday. Looking forward to meeting you. Proverb, sort of: The more we disagree, the more chance there is that at least one of us is right. REMINDER: RED RIBBONS Kay in Michigan Rained part of the day, humid & warm There is an old saying-If you don't like the weather, stay in Michigan, it will change. {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Re: "Weavers Words" V. 2 I. 49 Date: Wed, 07 Oct 1998 12:21:46 -0300 From: Robin_Walker@memun.org To: davidc@iei.net References: 1 My first hello to David and all Weavers !!! I am a fairly new subscriber -- and I have enjoyed reading about all the hints and ideas everyone has offered because I'm a very eager learner -- especially about staining baskets --- I've only stained a few of my baskets but I love the lighter stains and I like the natural look of the baskets. If anyone has any thoughts or advise to offer a fairly new weaver in regards to staining; I would be most appreciative --- and don't limited it to just staining -- I also love doing the braided boarder and the Gretchen boarder -- I'm a detail person and put a lot of fancy work into my baskets --- I love them to be useful as well as beautiful to look at!!! --- I put a part of me into every basket I weave!!! I would love to hear from anyone with advise -- my address is 2698@mailexcite.com I was very excited about finding this webpage and receiving "Weavers Words" (thanks David for your hard work and dedication :-) --- On another topic -- I have been rather disappointed about all the talk about the three people who did not send their baskets in a previous baskets swap -- it seems to have consumed a lot of space and did scare me a bit about writing my first response to say hello to everyone. Hopefully the people who did not receive their baskets from these people did enjoy weaving for someone else who enjoys their enthusiasm of weaving -- granted, I also would have been disappointed if I had not received a basket if I was one of them; but it seems like they have overcome this disappointment, which I think is great and hopefully others can follow and get over that disappointment as well and talk about the excitement of weaving and share more of their hints and weaving techniques. The best way to learn is from each other and considering you all are avid weavers; I'm eager to learn from each and every one. Excited about weaving in Maine --- Robin Maine Municipal Association 60 Community Drive Augusta, ME 04330 Phone: (207)623-8428 Fax: (207)626-5947 {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Weavers Words Date: Wed, 07 Oct 1998 09:27:10 -0800 From: "moonweaver" To: davidc@iei.net Salutations Weaving Family, A few issues ago I wrote that I would trade Birch bark for reed - many of you responded. My mail server has not been responding so well, ah the age of electronics. So I hope all who wrote will read this. Due to many unforeseen circumstances I must retract my offer until this coming spring. I would have let you all know by personal e-mail however due to my servers unique personality this is not the case. I didn't want any of you to put my name on a 'deadbeats' list. Again I do apologize for this inconvenience to any of you. Things do come up as they have in my life at the moment. I want to thank all who did respond and if you can wait until this spring would still be willing to trade. Let me know - here or by e- mail- hopefully my server will start behaving itself. *S* I also want to thank all who responded to my question on my work - all input has been very helpful since I tend to be my worst critique. My prayers are with all that are going through tough times - be they family, personal, or weather related. And last but certainly not least - thank you David for all the hard work you do - you truly are a blessing to all who know you!!!!! God Bless, Chrys MoonWeaver Basketry where the frost is getting heavier and snow is sure to come soon. {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Weavers Words Date: Wed, 07 Oct 1998 16:44:53 PDT From: "Alice Edwards" To: davidc@iei.net Hello Weavers (and David), (P) David - I voted for Jace until today when his picture wasn't there. Hope he won! Thank you for everything you do for all of us. (B) Thank you to everyone for all the information about stains and stamping lately. Wow, lots of ideas now all I need is more time, energy and maybe space. I've already used the space under the spare room bed, Linda. To clip/trim hairs off baskets I sometimes use either a pair of angle shear trimmers I got to use for round reed. But, for quick handy last minute clipping I like to use a small pair of fingernail trimmers. They get right up against the basket. I have used sandpaper on the reed first when I had some that had a problem, but even if it looks okay beforehand sometimes weaving seems to cause a few hairs to appear as the basket dries. I've never used a heat gun, but have used fans to at least partially dry baskets so I could re-pack before I do the cut & tuck work. It does help, I think. Lois - I like the idea of a tole painting class. Hope I find one sometime. I did find some booklets like Bert Comstock described at a used book store and bought them, but a class would be better, I think, than trying to teach myself. Chrys (moonweaver)- The only small cradle/bassinet with handles I can find is listed in the pattern list from NorEsta that was listed in an earlier issue. (I had a least vague memories and went looking.) It is small, they list the base at approximately 9" by 13" which seems more doll sized to me, though maybe that could be adjusted, and it does have handles. You might want to contact them and ask questions. I will look through some more books as well, if I have time. Gretchen and Gail - I haven't made the homemade walnut stain yet, I am hoping to get some walnuts soon and try it. But, I wonder if it is the walnuts themselves that are different. In reading instructions and suggestions while thinking about making my own I remember reading somewhere that it wasn't necessary to crack the hulls for the walnut shells. That you could use whole walnuts and if anything that the nut would/might provide a slight oil sheen to the stain. If you are using only the hulls instead of the whole nuts, you might try making a batch with the whole nut and see if that makes a difference. Also you might be sure to use boiling water to pour over the nuts if you are brewing it instead of boiling it up. The heat in the water might be necessary to extract the oil in the nuts for the stain. Sue Ann - Thanks for the list of willow books and the information. The thought of having to decide days ahead that I will be weaving is a little daunting. My life, and energy levels, are not that predictable lately but the idea of using willow still fascinates me. Jean Cadmus May - Thanks for the tool list. Think I'll copy it and keep as a sample of the basics. I can understand your preference for your own tools. I tend to take mine, even to classes where the teacher provides tools. Alice Edwards in the damp and chilly Kansas City area {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: aloha Date: Wed, 07 Oct 1998 20:50:03 -1000 From: The Keener Clan To: davidc@iei.net Aloha, Billie Dorris lost her daughter a short time ago. I think it might be time for the members of the WW family to e-mail her and let her know that her friends are thinking of her. Lois {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Weaver's Words Date: Thu, 8 Oct 1998 10:31:47 -0000 From: "Jeff & Diana French" To: "David Collins" Hi Everyone! I have some exciting news I would like to share. I'm going to be teaching a lamp basket class at Mary Carty's shop - "Pinelands Folk Music & Basketry Center" on Nov. 21st. This will be my first opportunity to do this and I'm very excited about it. Thank you Mary for your confidence in me and this opportunity!! Anyone interested in attending can call Mary at 609-231- 8588 for all the details. Kathy Fullerton - Thanks for telling me your basket in the oven story. Makes me feel a little better about putting a basket in the oven. :) I also hope you do say something about that teacher - it just isn't right and someone needs to be made aware of her teaching techniques. I go to basket classes for enjoyment and the opportunity to meet others that share the same interest, not to be harassed by the instructor! "mkoch" - Regarding your note about Weaver's Stain... if you use this product on your baskets, they will be non-toxic? I've read all the postings about reed, dye, stain, walnut hulls all being toxic and was concerned about food being put in a basket. I put apples in a basket and insist the apple be washed again before eating because of this problem with toxins. I could use Weavers Stain and no longer be worried??? Thanks for any information on this subject. Gail - I stand behind your decision 100%!!! Happy weaving to all! :~) Diana French in cooler and fall-ish (my favorite time of year) Southern New Jersey {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Soup and Gingerbread men Date: Thu, 08 Oct 1998 06:41:42 -0500 From: "Frederick A. Kogler" Organization: All About Baskets To: davidc@iei.net David, I have been reading the Weaver's Words for a long time, but have felt it's better to watch and learn than to jump into the middle of something that you're still learning about. But, now, I can't resist! It's squash and pumpkin time! Here in Minnesota we have a guild for weavers that meets regularly the 4th Saturday of each month. We follow a developed program of guest teachers and classes which everyone has opportunity to attend according to their skill and budget perimeters. In addition, our program director, Molly Stahlke, arranges special meetings and invites guest teachers. Just last Saturday John McGuire was here to teach a couple of baskets using black ash. Those who wove over that "special" weaving weekend came away excited and impressed by John's skill and knowledge. Our guild consists of about 85 women and one "me." Let me assure you that my wife and kids think its great that I've finally found a hobby that they can enjoy with me, as they usually get the baskets I make. Our guild has some truly great weavers in it and they've learned to tolerate "me" as the token "M." I have filled the niche of being the reed supply person. Each meeting I drag out the reed, handles and Basket Buckles they need and they do their shopping....(I'll send you a catalog from "All About Baskets" if you like. AAB is a little mail order basket supply business we've started as a result of our guild evolving and growing ). Each meeting consists of a short "busy-ness" meeting, a gathering time, and then the various teachers for the day are introduced and the students for each gather to begin their weave for the day. For those who have chosen not to "attend a class" there is an open weave area where they undertake the completion of their current project, or just sit around and share, or float about and mingle. We have a couple of hospitality people who bring snacks that vary according to their choices and are simply offered gratis to the rest of the members present. More than a few times the exclamations of "Ooooo Yummy!" have come from the snack table. We've had a "pot luck" fund raising sale that had individuals bringing whatever they wanted to be offered for sale to the guild with all of the proceeds going to the treasury...... Diane Ericson is our chairperson and keeps things going along with a very capable and supportive elected board. Her infectious laugh and twinkle-eyed smile welcomes guests and signals that its time to begin our craft. If ever anyone of you happens to be in the Twin Cities on the 4th Saturday of the month get in touch with us and we'd be honored to have you join us for the day. The meetings are held at Emanuel Lutheran School 125 Crusader Ave., West St. Paul, MN 55118. 9-3 P.M. I thought I'd send along a recipe that I've been working on..... They're always works in progress so if anyone wants to try it, add something different and throws out the results have at it! SQUASH SOUP 2 medium sized butternut or buttercup squash, washed, halved and cleaned. chicken broth chicken bullion Sweet cream - 1 pint (1/2 & 1/2) Sweet Onions bacon walnuts Sweet Creamery butter White pepper Yellow potatoes Bake the halved and cleaned squash face down until thoroughly cooked. Scoop out flesh and use a food processor to puree. Add some chicken broth to ease processing and thin mixture. Sauté in a soup kettle finely chopped onion in butter, adding squash and cubed yellow potatoes to increase body. Cook until potatoes are soft. Season with chicken bullion, a dash of white pepper (don't over do). This mixture may be left thick or thinned by adding more or less chicken broth. The bullion will add a salty flavor....don't over do on this either. At this point add Sweet Cream to extend the portion and to make it really smooth and tasty. Do not overcook after the cream has been added. Cook until it bubbles up once, then remove from heat and get ready to serve. The soup should be garnished with the following: Finely diced onions, bacon bits, and walnuts (medium chop) ROAST THIS COMBINATION together ... do not fry. Ladle soup into serving bowls and garnish. Serve with your favorite whole wheat or potato bread, butter and honey. Mmmm, it's sooo good! The bread is, of course, served in a "bread basket" lined with an appropriate napkin for the season, and the basket is decorated with a gingerbread man Basket Buckle(C). ;o) -- Frederick A. Kogler, 1637 Allen Ct. West St. Paul, MN 55118-3802 http://www.concentric.net/~fkogler fkogler@concentric.net frederi964@AOL.com {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Re: "Weavers Words" V. 2 I. 49 Date: Thu, 8 Oct 1998 22:52:17 +0900 From: "ybarra" To: "David Collins" Hi, really enjoy reading the info that everyone writes. I am living in Japan and I am trying to find a reasonable craft supplier. If there is anyone with that info please e-mail me at ybarra@marinemwr.or.jp. Thank you and God Bless. God Bless, TRACY M. YBARRA {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: WW Willow Discussion Date: Thu, 8 Oct 1998 11:12:35 -0500 (CDT) From: Kathryn M Gomm To: davidc@iei.net Hi everyone! Just thought I'd add my comments to the willow discussion. First of all, I think most US weavers give willow a bad rap. When I tell people I weave willow, inevitably the first thing out of their mouths is "boy, you must have strong hands!" Well, maybe I do and maybe I don't. I like to think it's just that I have my hands trained to work with the willow. I hear that oak splint weaving is tough, but I'm not going to judge it until I give it a try for myself (soon, in Michigan!!). Maybe all those weavers who tried willow and found it difficult should try to work with peeled willow instead of unpeeled, as the rods are much more flexible. When I talk to basket weavers in Europe, I find that the majority of them use willow, with the rare weaver using reed. In fact, when I was in a shop in England this past year, the owner showed me a basket he made from a kit and called it an "American Basket" - it was a flat splint type, if I recall correctly. Almost every other basket in the shop was willow. If you can weave round reed, you can weave willow. Aside from rib-style baskets, almost all willow weaves are round reed techniques, just applied differently. In fact, I find myself looking at the round reed patterns and evaluating their possibilities for my willow! Additionally, if you are afraid that you are stuck with only a few color possibilities with willow, you would be mistaken. There are many varieties of willow, and each has its own unique color. If those aren't enough, the weavers in Europe are experimenting with dyeing their willow, just as we are doing with reed (and it works!). I believe that most of the teachers that teach willow basketry at the major conventions have been mentioned. Joanna Schanz, Kathy Kellenberger, Laura Kleinmeyer, Jo Cambell-Amsler, Sandy Whalen and Bonnie Gale are the ones I am most familiar with. Oftentimes, weavers from England and elsewhere visit the US to teach (mostly at conventions, but can come to guilds to teach as well), and are very skilled at the craft. So, keep an open mind about willow, and don't dismiss it without first trying. Was any one of us perfect on every style we first tried? I don't think so! ;v) Good luck! Kathryn Gomm Milwaukee WI {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Many prayers and thanks... Date: Thu, 08 Oct 1998 09:17:16 -0600 From: Sherry Gregg To: David Collins To the family who lost a child, my heart goes out to you along with prayers for wonderful memories and much strength. My prayers too, to the many families (there seem to be so many) enduring long illnesses, difficult decisions or recoveries. A note to the rest of us, let's not forget to count our many blessings!!!! To Diana in Indiana, Thanks so much for sharing info about the basket jewelry. What is Brown County silver? I used to live in Monroe County and know Brown County gets its name attached to thousands of things. For Sandy, Thanks for the web site for MS Creations! I will be checking it out later today. David, as always, you do a wonderful job! Thanks for the links to the Top Secret Recipes, I can't wait to try a few! Sherry (already clad in wool sweaters) from the Rockies. {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Lashing and Stains????? Date: Thu, 8 Oct 1998 18:56:30 -0400 From: "cabcar" To: "David Collins" Hello fellow weavers, I am just enforcing a previous letter by asking about a gray stain. I have not liked the previous Basket Wash that I purchased. The basket crunched when handled. My second request is the matter of double lashing looking like the V. Someone on a previous WW had the same problem. I make several large baskets, even using 3/4" flat oval for rimming and would like to double lash if done properly. Please Help. Carolyn of Suffolk {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} Subject: Weaver's Words Date: Thu, 8 Oct 1998 18:37:42 -0700 From: hannah To: "'davidc@iei.net'" Hi there to all. Just want to say KEEP PRAYING as God is answering your prayers. Grandma's cancer is not in the liver. Although she is in stage 3 out of 4 stages, he says that it not being in her liver is a big plus. Miracles do happen. Just wanted to say "THANK YOU" to all who pray. Your pal, Pam Feix {*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*}{*}-{*} If for any you would ever like to cancel your subscription, simply send me a message with "unsubscribe" as your subject.