Handmade at Home

Today I am continuing to show the little things that are part of my daily life that are handmade. Having things from hands that care whether your own or another persons just makes it all more meaningful. To me it creates a connection to the thoughts and feelings behind the creation. In a mass produced world the only thought behind the creation of objects is probably "When does my shift end so I can go home?"

The little basket today isn't much. It started out plain white and I sponged the green paint on it. The flowers inside were left from the center pieces on the tables at my oldest daughter's wedding reception. That event was a lovely day and lots of fun. So you see at a glance I can feel better just thinking of the happy time behind the creation. This sits on the edge of the tub in the master bath so I get to see it several times a day.
As for any purists out there I will admit this is not made from scratch but rather the basket is hand altered and the flowers just placed in it but those ideas were put together by my hands.

I Love Baskets!

I love baskets and the thoughts of making one by hand fills me with a sense of admiration for anyone who spends time at this art form. Basketry Botanica is filled with the work of just this type of art. You will find large and very useful egg baskets, tiny basket pendants and even baskets made to go on your walls.

For a bit of background you find the following in the artists profile-

Baskets come from cultures all over the world in an infinite variety of styles and materials, for just as many functions. My baskets are varied, because I am a weaver with enthusiasm for many styles, but a passion for traditional craft with fine craftsmanship. I love to try out many of my own ideas like basketry jewelry, glass-lined wicker vases and wicker lamps, but chances are,I'll turn out something steeped in basketry tradition.

My baskets and other woven items are made in a smoke-free home studio with imported reed and many locally gathered materials. I do have 2 Border Collies named Chloe and Brody and a black cat named Mehitabel who are too manipulative and controlling to evict from the studio. I have taught basket weaving for 13 years and have 27 years of experience creating baskets. Designs available tend to be based in deep American traditions, particularly splint woven baskets inspired by native basket designs. In addition I weave many kinds of ribbed baskets resembling those that came to us from the settlers and natives in and around the Appalachian Mountains. My baskets look authentic, and all are made by me. I work alone at this time - unless the dogs count - they think they're helping and the cat thinks I do everything for her.