"Summer Market Basket"
by Deborah Blair
(12 1/2" x 4 1/2" x 6 1/2")
Cut 5 spokes from 5/8" flat - 26" long
Cut 9 spokes from 5/8" flat - 20" long
Lay out the base with the 5 spokes horizontally and the 9 spokes vertically. The center vertical spoke (the handle spoke) should be UNDER the center horizontal spoke.
Base measures 5" wide by 10" long. Twine 2 rows around the base with #2 round reed. Upsett.
Weave:
2 rows 3/8" (first row should be OVER the center front)
1 row 3/8" - red
1 row 1/4" - blue
1 row 1" ash
1 row 1/4" - blue
1 row 3/8" - red
2 rows 3/8"
Fold and tuck the outside spokes. Cut off the inside spokes.
Insert the tips of the handle at the center spokes on the opposite sides of the basket.
Wrap the rim with 1/2" flat/oval. Use blue seagrass for filler. Lash with 1/4" flat.
Paint or use rub-ons to decorate the ash strip.