Threads 11: Christmas Decorations

Christmas Reindeer

The Christmas reindeer was first published in the Best of Basketry Express  1980-1985 and submitted by Helen Barker. Originally from a Japanese design, it has been enjoyed by many. The best material to use is 1/4”  flat reed, cut 5 pcs. 30” long and soak them for a few minutes.  Now follow the instructions in the photo given below.  They will stand on their four legs, or hang on the tree. 

Small grapevine wreath with birchbark

You will need to collect some fairly fine grapevine and some very thin papery birch bark. Make a circle the size you want, and then just keep wrapping round and round until it is nice and solid and strong. Cut some long fine pieces of birchbark and wrap them around. This would be a good project for a child.

Random weave  ball  decoration

You will need some fine round read, and a small round balloon and some sticky tape, blow up the balloon to the size you would like your decoration. Start wrapping the read around the balloon and stick it on with tape in different areas. Now you just keep wrapping and round and round And going over and under until it is nicely covered. Pop the balloon and remove the tape, then if you like you can spray it with gold or silver spray paint.