How to Weave a Wicker Basket

Wicker is one of the more forgiving mediums a crafter works with, though practice is always beneficial. Mastering basket weaving is a good beginning for learning how to do larger repairs. Reed twisting and bending is the skill necessary to weave wicker baskets. Read on to learn how to weave a wicker basket.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Warp rods
• Wefts/Reeds
• Water

1. Learn the four basic techniques to weave a basket—plaiting, twining, coiling and wicker.
2. Decide which technique to use for the basket pattern chosen. Each pattern will call for a different weave.
3. Find a pattern that uses twining. This weave starts with a foundation of warped rods.
4. Grab two to four weft elements and wrap them around the warp rods to create a base for the basket.
5. Twist and separate the wefts around the stationary warp rods.
6. Thread repeatedly the weft through the warp rods to create the sides of the basket. Make sure you twist them lightly together.
7. Complete the basket. Be sure to check for a missed warp rod. If there is none, the basket is finished.

Tips & Warnings

• Soak the wefts/reeds in water to keep them pliable.
• Wear gloves when weaving with wicker as the reeds can cut skin like a knife.