Colored hemp may be woven in with the grass either as a lining or so inserted as to make a beautiful pattern. The value of the basket will be enhanced by the use of sweetgrass, if this material is obtainable.
The model given is made of marsh grass, sewed with raffia of natural color, and the design is made in pink hemp. Its base is five inches in diameter; its depth one and one-fourth inches.
Corn husks may be used instead of grasses, and are unexcelled for beauty and artistic effect. Use the inner husk from the ear when green; though the husks will dry, the varied color will not be lost. When made up with a contrasting color of green or golden brown raffia they are most attractive. Grasses may be kept a long time; but before using them soak them thoroughly, and let them dry out. This treatment will make them so pliable that they may be handled as easily as though freshly gathered. The long needles of the southern pine also are thus worked up.
BASKET TRAY
15 Basket of Splints and Raffia
Problem—To teach construction, using splints and raffia.
Material—Splints of ash or flat reed: eighteen splints, each 1/4×12 inches; 3 splints, each 1/4×18 inches, for binding of edge. Raffia of two or three colors.