Saturday, June 27, 2009

Back to Weaving...


OK, finally gotten back to weaving. A friend of mine was able to make it to Country Seat, our "local" weaving supply shop, a few weekends ago to take a class with Ann Bowers. They were making all kinds of ribbed baskets including antler baskets. This is something I have wanted to try for years!

So we got together yesterday and got to work. Jenn shared all the tips she had learned and we both tackled our own individual baskets. See, people write all kinds of patterns for antler baskets, but I have found that patterns are really a joke. Since each antler is it's own shape, the patterns are really only guidelines. I am not saying anything negative about antler patterns, trust me, I have a dozen at least! They are merely just guidelines of rib placement. The antlers truly determine the size and basic shape of the basket. It's very fun and creative to sit and study the antler, how is sits, and determine where to start drilling. A little scary too!!!

I'm not sure if I am going to chance selling these as the laws here in Pennsylvania are really strict about the collecting and selling of antlers. But, I will be doing commission work. If you have an antler, send it to me, and I would be more than happy to make you one on your own antler!

5 comments:

Life Looms Large said...

That's a beautiful basket!! Very cool!

Now it makes me want to find an antler in the woods....or really, my dog is the best antler finder in our family.

Drilling them must be scary since they're a somewhat rare commodity!

Sue

Tammy said...

Welcome back to blogland!
Very Nice! I want one pleeeease!
Hugs from Auntie

Nancy at EmbroideryIt.com said...

It turned out beautiful!
I have a reindeer antler that has been sitting around for ages. I need to get busy and weave on it.
Nancy

Juliana/A Hand Woven Life said...

We pass the town where Country Seat is located on our way to see my mom in Bethlehem, but we have never stopped in there! I've ordered from them in the past though!
Your antler basket turned out great! I have several small antlers that I want to weave on, and have tried it...the worst part is drilling the holes! I need some practice on that. Thanks for sharing and best wishes!

cyndy said...

Oh, I love these!

I think you can write to the PA Game Commission, and obtain a permit for selling. You should be able to get one, just need to fill out the paperwork.

One day, I should like to talk to you about making an antler basket.
The anterlers I have are old, I'll wait until I have a "fresh" find.