Preparing the Black Aligned Paper Cord for weaving: measure off 3 pieces each 70" long. Cut in half lengthwise. Set aside. DO NOT WET THE PAPER CORD

From 1" FF cut 9 spokes 37" long and 11 spokes 33" long. It is important when cutting the spokes you get the most out of a strand - maybe 2 or 3 long spokes or 2 long and 1 short.

From the coil of 3/8" FF, pull out a long strand that measures 10 - 12 feet long for lashing. Set this aside. Then cut 8 filler spokes 24" long. Mark the center of all spokes & filler spokes and soak.

Layout 9 spokes (37") horizontal (good side down) alternating with the 8 filler spokes. Line up the center marks. Weave in 1 center spoke (33") vertical starting over the horizontal spoke and under the filler spokes. Weave in 5 more spokes on each side of this center spoke. Adjust base to 16" long x 12" wide. If time permits, let the base dry, making it easier to pack, or use a hair dryer to speed up the drying process.

Fold the filler spokes to the inside of the base. Create "chicken feet" by cutting the filler spoke ends in half lengthwise.

Tuck under the 2nd row of base weaving on each side of the filler spoke. Trim off any excess. Repeat on the other end.

Twine one time around the base with #2R. Upset the spokes. Weave the following rows start & stop:
9 rows 3/8" FF
1 row black aligned paper cord (DO NOT WET THE PAPER CORD)
1 row 3/8" FF
1 row black aligned paper cord
1 row 3/8" FF
1 row black aligned paper cord
2 rows 3/8" FF

Pack well, cut and tuck spokes. Insert the handle on the center spoke. Rim with 5/8" FO, seagrass between rims, and lash with 3/8" FF.

Cut 3 pieces from 5/8" FO each 13" long for reinforcements on the bottom. Wet these pieces to straighten and scarf both ends. Refer to photo below for placement of reinforcements.Optional: Left over black aligned paper cord can be used as overlays on spokes.

All materials to make this basket are available at NC Basket Works.