Basket Mending
This laundry basket belonged to my husband’s grandfather. We got it when he died in March 1991. I’ve used it steadily since that time. About 10 – 15 years ago the upper edge started to break. I repaired it with grapevines and the white string.
If you look on the far top edge, you can see where it had again broken. It had to be repaired soon.
It only takes simple tools and materials to do:
• Scissors
• Strong string
• Hand pruners
• Grapevines
• Tape
I used some grapevine for the vertical struts in addition to the woven horizontal pieces. Before I started tying, I used tape to make a pointed end for the string. It’s easier getting it between the canes with the taped point.
Once I had the grapevines woven into place, I started tying them down to the canes of the basket. At each join of vertical and horizontal, I wrapped the string around the vertical. I selected a strong horizontal cane to weave through.
I loosened and tightened up the original strings while I was at it.
It may not be the most attractive repair but I anticipate another 10 – 15 years of service from the basket.
I love baskets! I hang onto mine for as long as I can. I too have a woven laundry basket that my sons want me to replace with some plastic thing from a local store. I still use my basket. I think it was originally used as a bassinet for my mother, and it was prior to that as a bassinet for other family members. As near as I can calculate it is well over 100years old. It is getting a little on the brittle side...sigh
@goldenoakfarm you were flagged by a worthless gang of trolls, so, I gave you an upvote to counteract it! Enjoy!!
Thank you! I hadn't seen a flag yet, but was aware there was a bunch of them going around...