I love making coiled baskets
I love making coiled baskets; they are simple and natural. Stitching by hand I do not require loud machines or protective gear, just my hands, needle, thread, and maybe some beads. Historically, baskets have been both basic and decorative. They can help tell a story, record important occasions, and pass guarded messages.
I was first drawn to the clean lines and controlled forms that could be created with this technique, after trying several different materials I fell in love with linen. Linen is both beautiful and durable giving my pieces a strength that can not be described.
My work is created by wrapping colorful linen threads thousands of times over a braided nylon core; it has a unique hand made quality that no machine can produce. I begin by sketching new ideas and gathering thread colors. As the piece develops, I am constantly thinking of my next coil and how it will stack on the next. I evaluate it as I go and will often add new colors at this stage.
I enjoy blending traditional and contemporary patterns in my work, using color to enhance traditional patterns or creating contemporary pictorial designs.
In addition to stand alone baskets, I have created wearable baskets combining beadwork to match the colors of the linen. I integrate beads and other objects within the baskets. I began experimenting with floral and leaf shaped beads to create draping coils. They are now part of a complete art piece where their beauty unifies with my textile work.
