Basketry

Jimmie Dinkins explains the first steps in the process of making a kudzu basket.

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Jimmie Dinkins explains the first steps in the process of making a kudzu basket.

A Natural State 4
A Natural State
Episode 4

Video

Grades: 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

There are many definitions about what constitutes folk art. One definition by Sharon F. Patton states that a folk artist is one who is self-taught, usually makes art late in life which is tied to...
A Natural State 9
A Natural State
Episode 9

Video

Grades: 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Before beginning your project, look at your building materials. Try to locate nails that will work for the smaller joints as well as the larger joints. You may need to get more than one size...
A Natural State 2
A Natural State
Episode 2

Video

Grades: 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Jimmie’s upbringing fostered creativity and resourcefulness. His joy in his family history is palpable. In his world, nothing is wasted. Every simple thing is treasured for the value of its inherent...
A Natural State 13
A Natural State
Episode 13

Video

Grades: 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

What Jimmie is describing are standard weaving techniques. The first baskets were woven to collect fruits, nuts and grains. By making a basket, you are joining a long history of basket makers.
A Natural State 14
A Natural State
Episode 14

Video

Grades: 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

By turning up the sides of the basket, you are creating a bowl shape. The higher you build the sides, the deeper the bowl, and more you can put into the bowl. If you don’t work the sides upwards, you...
A Natural State 16
A Natural State
Episode 16

Video

Grades: 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Don’t worry about small mistakes in your basket. They will just make your basket unique.
A Natural State 17
A Natural State
Episode 17

Video

Grades: 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

To prolong the life of your basket and to give the basket a soft sheen, you may want to brush or spray the basket with a coat of wood sealant like you would use on a deck. If you choose to do this, do...
A Natural State 15
A Natural State
Episode 15

Video

Grades: 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

In this video, you can see just how tough these kudzu vines can be. If you are using other vining materials to build your basket, you will use the same techniques that Jimmie uses to add vines and...