Author Description

Celebrate and preserve the art of Native American basketry using primitive weaving methods employed by Indigenous practitioners of the craft. Members of the Navajo School of Indian Basketry have set down their secrets in clear and simple language, enabling even the beginner to create work that can rival theirs in grace, design, and usefulness. The text begins with basic techniques: choice of materials, preparation of the reed, splicing, the introduction of color, principles and methods of design, shaping the basket and finishing. A great variety of baskets and weaves from many cultures are described in subsequent chapters, such as Lazy Squaw, Mariposa, Toas, Samoan, Klikitat, and Shilo, each accompanied by specific instructions. There are suggestions for the weaving of shells, beads, feathers, fan palms, date palms, and even pine needles, and recipes for the preparation of dyes. Examples of each type of basket are illustrated by multi-angle photographs, so that the bottom can be seen as well as the top and sides. Close-up photography of the various types of stitching, especially at the crucial stage of beginning the basket, is an invaluable aid to the weaver. In addition, the authors have provided line drawings which are exceptionally clear magnifications of the various weave patterns. Anyone who follows the lessons contained in this book will have a knowledge of basketry unattainable in any other way. For those who merely seek a broader knowledge of Indigenous arts, the book provides a comprehensive introduction to the subject of basketry.