Basketry

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Contents

1. Know the names of two countries where Rattan (cane) is grown.

Most (70%) of the world's rattan grows in Indonesia, distributed among Borneo, Celebes, Sumbawa islands. The rest of the world's supply comes from the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Malaysia and Bangladesh.

2. Explain how to treat pithcane (reed) before weaving.

To properly prepare reed for use in weaving, it must be allowed to dry completely for 3-7 days prior to use. This time might be shorter (or longer) depending on your local humidity. Store reeds out of direct sunlight to limit discoloration due to sun exposure. When you are ready to begin your project, first trim your reeds to the desired length. Then. soak one or two lengths of reed in warm (not hot) water for 5-10 minutes until the reeds bend easily. Make sure the reeds do not become waterlogged (soggy).

3. What tools would you use for:

a. Cane basket making?

b. Raffia or Indian basket making?

4. Define:

a. Weaver singeing

b. Crushing

5. Explain how to:

a. Mend a broken spoke (stake).

b. Join a weaving rod (reed).

6. Name two kinds of bases used in baskets and tell in which type of basket each one can be used.

7. Describe how to lay:

a. A footridge border

b. A three-rod border

8. Do the following: simple weaving, slewing, and bispoking, and stitch a raffia base.

9. Make a cane sandwich tray with a wood base.

10. Make a hot roll basket with a woven base.

11. Make a round hot pad six inches (15.2 cm) in diameter in Raffia or Indian basketry.

References

AY Honors/Basketry/Answer Key