Basket size
Dimensions
I have opted to try to replicate the size and shape of the original basket. It is a lovely size and has a visually pleasing aesthetic. The size in centimetres looks odd but it was originally made in inches.
I set out to make a replica of my mum's old school basket that she used to carry her books in. This basket is quite unassuming to look at and if anything, looks like a simple basket. However, I thought it would be quite challenging to make the curved bottom (bunny butt as someone on Facebook called it) and the split, wrapped handle.
Although I wanted to make a replica, I also wanted to personalise it. I have personalised it through the use of colour inspired by some of the makers I researched. The colour option I have gone with is multicoloured using fresh willow varieties. The idea is the merging, flowing colours reflect the mother/ daughter relationship over a lifetime.
Basket size
I have opted to try to replicate the size and shape of the original basket. It is a lovely size and has a visually pleasing aesthetic. The size in centimetres looks odd but it was originally made in inches.
Chosen colour scheme
The colours of the basket were critical in being able to personalise the basket and make it feel like my own work rather than copying. Because of the time of year, I have been able to buy fresh willow to work with that is in a variety of vibrant colours. These will fade as they dry out but the variation will remain to some extent.
I used buff for the base and uprights to provide contrast to the colourful sides and because it would be more forgiving to work with for laying down the border if I need to put the work down to chase the child or dog around.
Estimate of materials
To make the basket I used a mix of 4-5ft buff willow and 3-4ft mixed fresh willow. I ordered extra will to allow for 10% wastage.
To do the design work I used my iPad with the Create drawing app and my laptop,
I have tried to create a replica of the inspiration basket in its techniques and form. The techniques used were quite interesting as they broke some of the rules I had thought to be true in basket making - namely that French randing needs to be held in place by a wale. This basket used a double French rand to hold the first set of French randing in place and then the border. This was an interesting experiment to try and certainly works.
The other variation was in how the basket is upset. It uses a 4-rod wale to create a foot and then instead of pricking the side stakes they re curved up.
The materials were selected for their colour (fresh willow) and suitability for doing the job required (buff willow can be left and re-soaked if needed). The original basket was made of willow.
Timeline for my traditional basket with handles project
Basket inspiration, research and production costings