Matt Tommey
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What to weave When you don't have natural materials

3/5/2024

8 Comments

 
Over the years, a recurring question from my students, who come from all walks of life, has been about the alternatives to natural materials for weaving, especially when access to such resources is limited. It's a valid concern, particularly for those living in urban environments like apartments or condos, where the opportunity to grow and harvest natural materials is almost non-existent. Yet, the passion for weaving remains strong among them, leading to the inevitable question: How can a basket weaver continue their craft under these circumstances?

The good news is that the world of basket weaving is as diverse as it is creative, offering numerous alternatives that maintain the essence of natural weaving without the need for foraging in the great outdoors. I've explored and experimented with various materials over the years and have found several "store-bought" options that not only emulate the look and feel of natural weaving materials but also add their unique touch to the craft. Here are three of my top picks that I often recommend:
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  1. Raffia: This material is a gem in the weaving world. Available in a rainbow of colors and easily dyeable, raffia doesn't require any preparation like soaking, making it ready to use straight out of the package. It's incredibly versatile, perfect for techniques like coiling, twining, and even making cordage for rib basketry. The ease of use and the natural texture make raffia a favorite among urban weavers.
  2. Grapevine Wreaths: You might have seen these in craft stores like Walmart or Hobby Lobby, intended as decorative items. But here's a weaver's hack: you can deconstruct these wreaths, give the vines a quick boil to make them pliable, and voilà, you have excellent weaving material. It's a simple yet effective way to repurpose and weave something entirely new and personal.
  3. Commercially Available Cordage: The variety of cordage available today is astonishing. Materials like jute, hemp, waxed linen, and even Italian spring twine offer a wide range of textures, sizes, and colors to choose from. Depending on your project, you can opt for natural hues for a subtle, earthy vibe, or dive into the spectrum of colors available to bring a vibrant energy to your work.

And let's not forget about Twisted Paper, sometimes known as "fiber rush." This alternative is readily available and offers a spectrum of colors to choose from. It requires no preparation, making it an excellent choice for those spontaneous weaving sessions. The ease of use and accessibility make it a go-to for many urban weavers looking to bring their creative visions to life.

In essence, the art of basket weaving doesn't have to be confined by the availability of natural materials. With a little creativity and exploration, the alternatives can provide not only a practical solution but also an opportunity to experiment and innovate within the craft. Whether you're nestled in a bustling city apartment or have limited access to natural resources, these materials ensure that your weaving journey continues unabated, bridging the gap between traditional craft and contemporary living. So, to all the basket weavers out there in less leafy locales, fret not—your craft can flourish with these wonderful alternatives at your fingertips.
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Jute Twine
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Raffia
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Spring Twine
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Waxed Linen
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Grapevine Wreath
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Fiber Rush
8 Comments
Pamela
3/6/2024 01:37:49 pm

Folks often don't realize that their flower gardens are a potential gold mine of basket materials...Daffodil leaves, iris leaves, some ornamental grasses, honeysuckle to name a few. Love your work. Pamela

Reply
Matt
3/6/2024 03:05:00 pm

Absolutely! I write alot about that here on the site and of course, go very indepth in my online courses. Here's a recent article I did on the very subject of how to start a basketry garden :) https://www.matttommey.com/basketrygarden.html

Reply
Donna
3/18/2024 08:03:19 am

Although it is small in diameter, the cord in a baseball is delightful.

Reply
Orly
3/18/2024 08:08:50 am

Hi, thank you for this information. If I take your courses I can use any of this material just following the instructions in the courses?

Reply
Tib
3/18/2024 08:43:31 am

Over the years I have been putting aside phone charging cords as they fail--not sure what I'm going to do with them, but know the answer will come to me eventually. :-)

Reply
Pam Horovitz link
3/18/2024 12:46:33 pm

I've used some thin precut leather to provide a contrast band, and it was pretty easy to work with.

Reply
Julie
3/18/2024 04:09:27 pm

In moments of questionable sanity, I have been wanting to create small baskets for companion parrots -- knowing full well that the birds will have fun destroying them, along with the toys or treats that I can hide inside. Sourcing safe materials is a big concern, so I was happy to see the fiber rush -- I have lots of paper cordage (and seagrass rope) I use for toy making. One benefit of weaving for birds is that any imperfections are fiercely embraced!

Reply
Fi
3/19/2024 08:20:25 am

Could you use tshirt yarn or old sheets? I definitely have access to those 😂

Reply



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    Author

    Matt Tommey is a leader in the contemporary basketry movement and has been a maker for over 25 years.  The focus of his work centers around the use of southern invasive plant species in basketry.  He has served on the board of directors for the National Basketry Organization and taught at Arrowmont, the John C. Campbell Folk School and other locations both in the US and internationally.

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  • Artist
    • Current Inventory
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    • Your Personal Design
    • FAQs
    • Fireplace Mantel Sculptures
    • Wall Hangings
    • Tabletop & Pedestal
    • Woven Copper Fire Pit
    • Encaustic Art
    • Ikebana Baskets
  • Basket Weaving Classes
    • Starting a Basketry Garden
    • Basket Weaving Techniques
    • How to Make Baskets
    • How to Weave a Basket
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    • Privacy, Terms & Conditions
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