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Basket Handles, etc. 

Shaker Tape:

  • When your pattern calls placing shaker tape handles between the rim rows, make a channel  to thread your 1” shaker tape with two pieces approximately 3-4” long of old 1” vinyl window blinds slats.  Place two pieces together (curved sides out) between the basket and the outside rim where the shaker tape is to be placed.  The vinyl pieces should extend equal distance above and below the rim.  Lash rim as if the shaker tape was inserted.  The basket can now be stained by folding the channel pieces out of the away.  When the stain is dry, thread the shaker tape through the channels and remove the vinyl guides.  For 5/8” shaker tape, 1” blinds can be trimmed to 5/8” inches width.  Note:  Some stores that custom cut blinds will give you their scrap end pieces.  You can also cut strips from plastic milk cartons.

Wire Handles:

  • When you have a wire handle that has a little rust, spray some WD-40 on a paper towel and wipe the rust off.

Wood Handles:

  • Use a rectangular hoop instead of a D handle when making a market basket to keep the cost down.
  • If your diameter of your notched or swing handle does not fit your basket properly, you can put it in boiling water or hold it under hot tap water until it bends easily.   Be careful not to use force.   Use a string or long twist ties to hold it and dry the handle thoroughly.  You will need to sand the handle before inserting it in you basket.
  • For a smooth handle, rub your handle using a 6 or 8 inch square of heavy brown paper bag with the print side out.  The rubbing creates the friction that smoothes the wood. 
  • Oval/Oval reed (oval on both sides) and chair spline can be used for carving custom handles.

 
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Tips and Tricks listed on this page have been pasted from weaver to weaver over the past years.  MBG does NOT claim originality but provides a forum for sharing those deemed beneficial to new and experienced weavers.  MBG welcomes the submission of additional tips and tricks.  Please send your tips to

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