Loaves and Letters

Compliments of The NorEsta Cane & Reed web site: www.noresta.com

Materials:

3/8" flat reed, cut 9 pcs @ 15" - spokes

3/8" flat reed, cut 5 pcs @ 20" - spokes

3/8" flat reed, cut 1 pc @ 36" (rim row)

1/4" flat reed (weavers)

1/4" flat oval reed, 2 pieces @ 15" (handles)

1/2" flat oval reed (rim)

3/16" flat reed or your preference (lasher)

Mark centers on all cut spokes on the wrong side. Lay out the 20" spokes horizontally and weave one of the 15" spokes across the center, weaving under one / over one across the center. Weave the remainder of the 15" spokes with 4 on each side of the center spoke. Adjust base to measure 4-3/4" x 8-3/4". Even out the spokes to insure equal spacing and square up the base.

With 1/4" flat reed, weave a keeper row around the perimeter.

Upsett the spokes and weave 5 start/stop rows with 1/4" flat reed.

Weave a rim row with the 3/8" flat reed.

Tuck all outside spokes ad cut off all inside spokes.

Form handles on the ends with the 1/4" flat oval reed by pushing the ends down under two weavers and pulling the tails into the basket. Twist the flat oval reed to form the handle shape so that the flat side is facing the same direction on both ends of the handle. Bend the ends up and tuck the ends back up under one row to tie in the handles. Cut off the excess length.

Rim with 1/2" flat oval reed, both inside and outside.

Add rim filler and lash with 3/15" flat reed or cane.

Finishing: Criss-cross pattern

Slide a piece of 1/4" flat reed in diagonally between the horizontal and vertical spokes at each place that they intersect, first one direction and then the opposite diagonal direction to form the crosses in the base. This also act as filler for the base.