Basket Weaving 101

Basket weaving or brain surgery. I've studied both - well to be honest, I've never actually done surgery on any one's brain, but I did study surgery at vet school and performed it - mostly spays and neuters - for many years.

Until recently I hadn't studied "basket weaving." The term is often used derisively to refer to a something that is both easy and not particularly relevant to everyday life. Well a few weeks ago, I had a chance to get together with some friends to try my hand at willow basket making.

It was not easy. The willow is not easily manipulated. My basket took hours and came out a bit wonky looking.

This was Alix's basket - very nice!

Poor Brandy, she couldn't believe she had to wait while we played with sticks!

I do have to say that I found basket weaving much more enjoyable than surgery. Not once did I have that sickening feeling when I realized I'd cut the wrong thing off. And as for functionality - well even my wonky basket will be put to good use. Baskets in my house are used to hold just about everything - bread, fruit, wool, flowers, pens, utensils, clothes, cats and dogs .......
I have a much greater respect for this art now.

Still, I don't think I'll become a willow basket maker - I prefer yarn and knitting - it does what I ask it to.

A soft knitted basket made from Golden Retriever hair