Baskets of Vine

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Directions for a Random-WeaveMarket Basket
1 . With one long, continuous piece of vine, form two large hoops at right angles to each other. The use of one vine takes advantage of the natural connection holding the hoops together (see Diagram 1).

2 . Reinforce these hoops with at least two more loose-twisted vines around the original hoops. Keep all vines flowing in the same direction as you twist around the frame (see Diagram 2).

3 . Continue adding new vines, always starting at the rim. Secure these vines by twisting several times in the same direction as the other vines that form the hoop. As you fill in the framework, imagine that there is a watermelon resting in the basket, contained by the weaving. This will help you maintain a sense of the basket's shape (see Diagram 3).

4 . Form the basket bottom with a vine beginning in the center of the horizontal hoop and moving toward the bottom framework of the basket (the lower part of the handle). Wrap around the bottom framework and continue around the other side of the basket to the opposite rim. At this point, and each time you come to the rim, go completely around it—don't just loop over it—to lock the weaver in place and to make the vine lie smoothly along the top of the basket. It is important to do this correctly or the wrapping will pop up and appear loose and poorly woven (see Diagram 4).

5 . Continue weaving randomly from side to side in different directions until the basket shape is defined by at least four to six vines. Use twist ties to temporarily hold vines in place where they cross one another. Don't forget to wrap completely around the rim each and every time you reach it (see Diagram 5).

As you weave remember the invisible watermelon in the center—go around it, not through it. When you have several vines, begin to weave under and over them with the new ones. New weavers no longer need to go from rim to rim, but in any direction required to define the space. Go over vines that are protruding and under those that need pushing out. The under—over weaving locks the vines in place and firms up the shape. The diagram illustrates the fastest way to secure the vines, but not the only way. Remove twist ties when framework is secure.

Continue weaving until the basket is sturdy and filled to your liking. A randomly woven basket can be open and airy or filled in. Again, I want to emphasize that this is no-fail, so enjoy yourself as you weave. I filled in every single hole when I made my first basket. Succeeding ones, however, became more open and free. I usually like to add materials until the basket has a nestlike appearance.

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