Pine Needle Baskets, anyone?

[Billie_in_W._CO]

I learned how to make them a couple of years ago. Had been wanting to learn for about 15 yrs and finally saw a class offered thru the local college(non-credit classes). Turns out, we were her last class!

Nothing fancy, like what I have seen on some websites, just a simple bowl type. But it does take a toll on your fingers! But so fun.

Also, right now, I am making a beaded coverlet for a gourd. Have had the directions for several years, but they looked complicated so I kept putting it off. Finally decided to try and found it was really very simple to do! Each one is made to the size of the gourd you have.

[shadowdog]

I made a pine needle basket over 15 years ago and it is still being used and it is still in excellent shape. They last and last! Unfortunately it wasn't a hobby that kept me coming back for more, but I still remember how to do it if I ever do feel like making another one. :)

[nancy1340]

Do you have any pictures to post?

I loved the ones I saw on my last trip to CO. We drove over to Taos for the day and saw many beautiful baskets.

I also would love to have a swamp grass basket that the local ladies in SC weave. But WOW , talk about pricey. Lots of work I know.

[mtwildflower]

I know this is a long time coming, but I googled pine needle baskets and came up with this link. ( I had never heard of them before)

http://www.nativetech.org/basketry/coilindex.html

I am always looking for some crafts for me and the kids to do when we go camping and different kinds of basket weaving and willow furniture making are a couple I'd like to get started with. While I'm not sure how much we can do pine needle baskets, since most of our forests here are short needled, it will be a good thing to try.

[theresehirko]

Since I lost count in the 60s when I was counting pine trees in our yard, i should take up this craft. It would make great gifts since the resources are in my yard. Can I use string instead of raffia? I would like to add color to the baskets with cotton string dyed with food peels, like onions and beets. I figured I could get one more use out of them before the compost heap.