In weaving, place c under b, over a and under k; d over b and under a; g under f, over e and under b; h over f and under e; k under j, over i and under f; l over j and under i; b under c, over d and under a; a over c and under d; f under g, over h and under c; e over g and under h; j under k, over l and under g; i over k and under l; the round is then finished.
Step 5. This illustrates the manner of adding straws. Straw x is placed under c, over h, under g and then bent back. The bend should be in the middle of the straw.
Step 6. In this the right end of the added straw x is brought down over j and under i.
Step 7 shows how to continue the additions by weaving one straw and then adding one.
Step 8 shows the mat after the first round of additions has been completed. The weaving is now easy. Weave entirely around again without any additions, turning five straws each time. Then go around again weaving two and adding one, in the same manner as before, turning seven straws each time. As the diameter of the mat increases, the less often is it necessary to add. But be sure to add enough to keep the weaving close and the mat perfectly flat.
Step 9 shows how to close the edge of the mat by turning back the straws on each other. It also gives a very pretty “woven in” design for a border, which can easily be followed from the plate.
Square Center.
Steps for commencing a circular mat with a square beginning are illustrated in [Plate XXI]. The additions at the corner are made in the same manner as explained in the radiating center, except that each is for a fourth of a circle instead of a complete circle.
Decorations for Round Mats.
Decorations are often employed in round mats. (See Plates [XXII] and [XXIII].) The most usual are concentric or radiating colored bands of either simple or sawali weaves.