Threads 56: Using colour in basketry

Traditional basket makers have never used much colour and pattern in their designs. However, I came to basketry from a weaving background, where colour and design are very much part of the craft. For this reason, I used predominantly flat and round reed which I could dye and use in various block patterns, zigzags and twills. From this, I later moved into natural materials and became interested in using materials I could find and use.

I still find using colour in baskets very appealing.

For the next few issues, I am going to discuss using colour and exploring different weaves using colour and design in different ways. In this threads, we will explore using colour with natural materials.

Using colour with natural and found materials

There has always been the difference between brown, buff and white willow. There are also several varieties of willow of different colors, which can be bought as cuttings.

When I heard that commercial flower growers coloured their chrysanthemums by putting them in coloured water, I tried putting spring willow in water coloured with different coloured ink. When the shots started to come into the leaf I stripped off the bark and exposed the inner wood.  It was very successful and did not fade. The only problem was it is very difficult to find coloured inks.

I have successfully dyed cedar bark.

We have red dogwood in this area, and although the bark is only red when it gets sunshine, otherwise it is green.