Views: 222 Author: Tomorrow Publish Time: 2025-04-04 Origin: Site
Content Menu
● Introduction to Antler Basketry
● Creating a Handmade Basket with Antler Patterns
● Tips for Working with Antlers
● Attaching Antlers to Baskets
● Advanced Techniques and Patterns
● FAQs
>> 1. What types of antlers are best for basket making?
>> 2. How do I secure antlers to a basket?
>> 3. What weaving techniques are suitable for antler baskets?
>> 4. Where can I find antlers for crafting?
>> 5. What materials can be used alongside antlers in basket weaving?
Creating handmade baskets with antler patterns is a unique and creative way to incorporate natural elements into your home decor. Antlers, whether naturally shed or harvested, can add a rustic and elegant touch to any basket. In this article, we will explore the process of crafting a handmade basket using antlers, including selecting the right materials, preparing the antlers, and weaving the basket.
Antler basketry combines traditional basket-weaving techniques with the natural beauty of deer antlers. This art form requires patience, creativity, and a bit of experimentation. Antlers can be used as handles, frames, or even decorative elements within the basket.
When selecting antlers for your project, consider the size and shape. Small white-tail or mule deer antlers are ideal for most basket projects because they are relatively small and have less curvature. You can find antlers in forests, especially during late winter when deer shed them, or purchase them from craft stores, eBay, or Etsy.
Before using antlers in your basket, you may need to clean and prepare them. Here are the steps to prepare an antler for use as a hoop or handle:
1. Cleaning: Gently brush off any dirt or debris from the antlers.
2. Drilling: Use a hand drill and a 1/4" drill bit to create holes for attaching reeds or securing the antler to the basket.
To drill antlers, follow these steps:
- Mark the Spot: Use a Sharpie to mark where you want to drill.
- Drill at an Angle: Start drilling at a 90-degree angle, then adjust the drill to go through the length of the antler, avoiding sharp angles that might cause the reed to break.
- Antlers: Small white-tail or mule deer antlers.
- Reeds: #8 round reed for wrapping and securing the antler.
- Drill and Drill Bits: For creating holes in the antlers.
- Hot Glue: To secure reeds in place.
- Basketry Shears or Pruners: For cutting reeds.
- Leather Twine or Paracord: For securing antlers to baskets.
1. Forming the Hoop:
- Drill holes in the antler as described above.
- Insert a piece of #8 round reed into the holes to form the hoop.
- Use hot glue to secure the reed in place.
2. Wrapping the Hoop:
- Wrap additional #8 round reed around the hoop several times.
- Secure with masking tape until the glue dries.
3. Weaving the Basket:
- Use a variety of weaving techniques such as the arrow weave or Southern Crossover Turnbacks.
- Incorporate natural materials like willow or dogwood for added texture and color.
Cathryn Peters offers several antler basket patterns, including the "Ebony & Ivory" melon basket and the "God's Eye & Smoked Reed" melon basket. These patterns provide detailed instructions and materials lists for creating beautiful, functional baskets.
- Naturally Shed vs. Harvested Antlers: Understand the difference between naturally shed and harvested antlers to choose the best for your project.
- Securing Antlers: Use leather twine or paracord to securely attach antlers to baskets, especially if the basket will hold weight.
When attaching antlers to baskets, you can use either a lashing technique or simple tying with leather twine. Here's how to use the 5-point lashing method:
1. Prepare the Basket: Ensure your basket is about 3/4 complete before adding the antler hoop.
2. Position the Hoop: Hold the antler hoop in place with masking tape or tie wraps.
3. Calculate Stakes: Divide the number of stakes by 4 to determine how many to lash in each quarter of the hoop.
4. Start Lashing: Begin with an X pattern across the back of the stakes, using a long, wet weaver for a tight weave.
5. Secure with Double Spacers: Use double spacers to prevent the antler from pronging out and to add decorative elements.
Antlers can also be used as handles for baskets, adding a rustic touch. Here's how to attach an antler handle:
1. Drill Holes: Mark and drill strategic holes in the antler.
2. Tie with Leather Twine: Feed leather twine through the holes and tie it to the basket.
3. Secure with Knots: Use stopper knots to secure the antler in place.
For those looking to challenge themselves, Cathryn Peters offers advanced patterns like the "Ebony & Ivory" melon basket, which involves contrasting natural and smoked reed. These patterns require prior experience with rib basketry but yield stunning results.
Gina's Baskets offers a woven antler tray pattern that involves drilling small spike horn or four-point matching white-tail deer antlers. This project is perfect for those interested in creating decorative trays.
Creating handmade baskets with antler patterns is a rewarding craft that combines natural beauty with functional design. By following these steps and experimenting with different techniques, you can create unique pieces that reflect your personal style and connection to nature.
Handmade basket patterns with antlers offer a unique way to blend natural beauty with craftsmanship. Whether you're creating a simple antler handle or a complex antler hoop basket, the process is both rewarding and challenging. Experiment with different techniques and materials to find your own style and voice in this beautiful craft.
Small white-tail or mule deer antlers are ideal due to their size and minimal curvature.
Use leather twine or paracord to tie the antlers to the basket, ensuring they are securely attached.
Techniques like arrow weave and Southern Crossover Turnbacks are popular for their visual appeal and durability.
Antlers can be found in forests, or purchased from craft stores, eBay, Etsy, and flea markets.
Natural materials such as willow, dogwood, and rattan reed are commonly used to add texture and color to antler baskets.
[1] https://www.jchoatebasketry.com/blogs/news/how-to-hoop-it-up-antler-hoops-that-is
[2] https://www.jchoatebasketry.com/blogs/news/get-it-on-how-to-use-the-5-point-lashing-on-antler-hooped-baskets
[3] https://www.fouroakscrafts.com/antler-handle-basket/
[4] https://www.wickerwoman.com/antler-basket-patterns
[5] https://www.ncbasketworks.com/antler-baskets-made-easy.html
[6] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5LuYGuxjQf8
[7] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KIrce5PTy8c
[8] https://www.ginasbaskets.com/patterns/p/7r38waynxasmejw-d27m4-s3pxm-yzxxm-zlc8y-bflt4-e3lcg-jdyfd-5cn99-xsmx6-9l7ys-452rr-8x9fl-apn7l
