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Tools

Basket making is a manual activity—your hands will be your most important tool! You can start with the basic tools and add more pieces to your collection later. You will find many of these tools in general craft stores, but some of the more specialized basket-making tools may only be carried by basket-making shops or suppliers.

Basic tools

•A basin large enough to soak the rattan/reed weavers.

•A spray bottle to constantly keep the work wet.

•Towels (1) to wipe the work and protect you from water.

•A pair of pruning shears (6) or a peeler to cut the weavers. Alternatively, you can use a pair of cutting pliers.

•An awl (9) can be purchased in various sizes to part the weavers and make holes.

•A ruler (13) or a measuring tape (14) measures your weavers and controls the proportions of the object to be made.

•A pair of scissors (10), paper, pens (4), clips (7), paintbrushes (3), masking tape (2), and other household supplies will help you with sketches and decorative finishes.

Additional tools

•A reed measuring tool (12) or gauge allows you to check the diameter of round reed.

•A peeler is used to cut protruding weavers flush.

•A small billhook (8) or pruning knife is a tool with a wooden handle and curved blade used to cut, split, and notch rattan/reed.

•A reed packing tool (5) is a heavy tool used to pack the work to tighten the finished weave.

•Pliers (11) help to bend the spokes.

•A weight placed on the base of an object stabilizes the object while working.

•Templates, made with wood, nails, and a hammer, can shape an object.

Optional material

•A premade plywood base, wooden or metal hoops, and/or a structure or frame, such as a vase, can give your work a defined shape.

•Wooden beads, leather straps, etc., can enhance your creations.