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Weaving a Basic Basket — Wicker from Willow Withies
Weave a functional basket from willow withies using the traditional wicker technique. Baskets predate pottery by thousands of years.
Intermediate
2-3 hours
Instructions
1
1
Harvest & Soak
Harvest & Soak
Cut straight willow shoots 60-120cm, pencil-thick. Dried withies: soak 24-48 hours. Fresh-cut: use immediately. Need ~40 withies.
2
2
Create Base (Slath)
Create Base (Slath)
6 thick withies ~30cm. Split 3 at center, thread other 3 through. Weave using pairing technique — two weavers alternating over/under. Separate spokes gradually from groups to singles.
Design
Diagram: slath cross formation, pairing weave pattern
3
3
Stake Up
Stake Up
Insert longer stakes (40-50cm) alongside base spokes. Bend all upward at 90°. Need an odd number for plain weaving. Tie tips together temporarily.
4
4
Weave Sides
Weave Sides
Randing (single weaver in-out) or waling (three weavers). Keep tension even, push weavers down snugly. Build to desired height.
5
5
Finish Rim
Finish Rim
Trac border: bend each stake right, behind the next, in front of the one after, tuck down. Trim flush.
Materials
- •Willow withies (flexible) - 40 piecessPlaceholder
- •Thicker rods for stakes - 15 piecessPlaceholder
Tools Required
- Knife or secateursPlaceholder
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