Traditional Baskets

To make Traditional Style Baskets, I begin to weave the damp rattan reed with a specific form in mind, but the shape evolves through the process itself. I prefer to use natural reed, then may dye the reed using soft-toned dyes, walnut hulls, or berry juices. For the traditional style baskets, I may add pottery ornaments that were made by friends of mine in Maine for decoration. I sometimes use wood and metal handles, which are attached to the rattan reed baskets with metal hinges.