This week I will be responding to an "inspiration" I had on returning from Rhode Island. Why not make up kits for people to buy to assemble their own baskets? WH Baskets of Port Rowan, my new favourite supplier of basketry materials, sells "kits" along with materials. While I am not about to copy and duplicate Wanda's excellent kits, I will develop my own line of kits. I will then put them for sale on my etsy site as well as locally at shows etc.
My first "line" will be tray-making kits for trays similar to the one pictured here. I will cut out various sized tray bases, drill holes around the circumference every inch or so, and then lightly sand them. I will cut the appropriate number of stakes that hold the cane to the base, form the vertical rods and form the border edging. I will also cut the appropriate number of weavers for the sides, and add in the beads if the tray is to use them.
A set of instructions will be added to the mix. This will include a list of tools to use.
The purchasers will be asked to finish the base before beginning assembly. Finishing could be with beeswax, stain and varnish, tole painting etc.
I will "blog" progress on this project as the week goes by.
What a fantastic idea! I bet shipping would be a little better, as with a flat package, it might not cost you so much :)
ReplyDeleteBest of luck, I can't wait to see what you come up with :)