Participants learn how to use natural materials to make a small melon basket using the traditional basketry technique of ribbed construction. The basket is started by lashing two intersecting hoops together to create a basic framework. Ribs are then inserted into the lashing to provide structural integrity and strength to the basket. A woven surface is then created using a technique called randing, which is the moving a single weaver inside and outside alternating ribs to build the surface of the basket. The ribbed constructions are ‘fleshed out’ with strappy leaves such as red hot poker, montbretia, chasmanthe, watsonia, Siberian iris, bearded iris and bullrushes. A wide range in colourful and textural bands of weaving are created which results in lovely unique baskets created by each person in the workshop.
I would like to acknowledge Hilary Bedson from SA who taught me how to make a small ribbed basket in an informal workshop at the National Basketry Gathering in 2019. I now respectfully pass this traditional basketry technique onto others at workshops held at a range of community centres in Victoria.
Participant at Creswick Neighbourhood House in February 2020 carefully weaving the surface of her melon basket.
Participant at Creswick Neighbourhood House in February 2020 carefully weaving the surface of her melon basket.
Participant at the Plant Craft Cottage (The Friends of Royal Botanical Gardens) showing her finished melon basket at the workshop in February 2020.
Participant at the Plant Craft Cottage (The Friends of Royal Botanical Gardens) showing her finished melon basket at the workshop in February 2020.
At the end of the day on Saturday February 15 in 2020 at the Plant Craft Cottage (The Friends of Royal Botanical Gardens).
At the end of the day on Saturday February 29 in 2020 at the Creswick Neighbourhood House.
Jodie Goldring 