Baskets Books

Coiled Designs for Gourd Art

Catherine Devine

Amazon Price: $10.19 List Price: $14.99 Usually ships in 24 hours By: Schiffer Publishing Amazon Marketplace: 10 new & used starting at $10.18

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 4 Average rating: 5.0 of 5

You will love this book! 5 out of 5 stars.
7 of 7 people found this review helpful.

I was lucky enough to have taken a coiling workshop with Catherine, and thought I didn't need the book...but then I thumbed through it at a friend's house and realized that I NEEDED this book. Coiling seems easy enough (at first), but just when you think you can be more creative with your design you realize that there is a trick to getting a professional appearance. This book is like having Catherine right there with you, mentoring you along the way. She gives clear direction and the close-up photos make a huge difference when you are wanting to put the needle (and thread) in the right place between rows. The gallery of coiled art is breath-taking and inspirational. This is a marvelous book and a must have for basket-weavers and gourd artists alike. Thank you Catherine, for making this book for us.

Editorial Review:

Coiling is a basketry technique used as decoration in gourd art. Step-by-step coiling techniques, as well as pattern designs, help gourd enthusiasts use coiled waxed linen and colored thread to enhance their work. 196 color photos show how to trim a gourd bowl or vase and use the coiled threads to add color to your favorite gourds. A special chart will help crafters design their own coiling patterns. Beginners and advanced workers with gourds will be inspired by this book.

Pine Needle Basketry: From Forest Floor to Finished Project

Judy Mallow

Amazon Price: $12.89 List Price: $18.95 Usually ships in 24 hours By: Lark Books Amazon Marketplace: 42 new & used starting at $9.75

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 16 Average rating: 5.0 of 5

The Best Book on the subject!! 5 out of 5 stars.
3 of 3 people found this review helpful.

I love this book! I made pine needle baskets years (20) ago and just started back with this hobby again. I just wish Judy Mallow would write another book with more of her basket inspirations in it. It is the best book on the subject! Thanks to you Judy!!

Fun and Beautiful 5 out of 5 stars.
2 of 2 people found this review helpful.

The instructions in this book are well written and clear, but what makes "Pine Needle Basketry" worth owning are the beautiful color photographs that are liberally sprinkled throughout the book. The book starts with a discussion of the required tools and materials and pretty quickly jumps into directions on how to make a simple pine needle basket. From there the author describes additional techniques such as: the different stitches used to bind the coils, adding beads and shells for embellishment, and using a gourd for the base of a basket. Next comes the "Projects" section where you are shown a photograph of a finished basket. Beneath each photo is a list of the techniques used and the pages where the technique descriptions can be found. The projects range from the first simple and functional basket to purely decorative pieces. Next comes the truly inspiring "Gallery" section. This is pure "eye candy". There is example after example of how other artists have transformed this simple craft into an art form. If you love baskets, then this is a great book to put on your shelf.

Editorial Review:

Create picturesque pine needle baskets, miniatures, trays, pencil holders and more. Special sections address dyeing needles, making lids and handles, techniques, and gathering and storing materials. “Mallow is an excellent teacher with a gift for keeping the subject entertaining and easy to follow.”—Small Press. “Beginners can create a basket by coiling and stitching together pine needles.”—Country Decorating Ideas.

The Perfect Basket: How to Make a Fabulous Gift Basket for Any Occasion

Diane Phillips

Amazon Price: $12.21 List Price: $17.95 Usually ships in 24 hours By: HARVARD COMMON PRESS - Model: 51795 Amazon Marketplace: 48 new & used starting at $3.98

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Features:

• The Perfect Basket by Diane Phillips
• HARVARD COMMON PRESS

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 6 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

NOT about statring a business!! For personal use only. 4 out of 5 stars.
19 of 20 people found this review helpful.

Maybe I didn't read the editorial comments correctly before I ordered this book, but it is not what I wanted.

I was looking for information about starting a gift basket *business*. This book does not cover that topic.

It is a very nice book about making baskets as gifts for friends, neighbors, teachers, service people, etc.

There are some full-color pictures, though not of every basket idea. The resource list is strictly retail. Recipes are included for basket items, a no-no when you're selling baskets unless you have a licensed commercial kitchen.

So, while the book might jump-start your brain for basket ideas as gifts, it is not a business book.

My problem, not the book's.

Editorial Review:

Here's the perfect solution for those to strive to find the perfect gift! This stylish and user-friendly guide offers baskets for every occasion, with options to fit anyone's budget. Gorgeous four-color photographs offer inspiration and guidelines on choosing the proper container, selecting the right-sized items, and decorating the finished basket make this an easy and fun gift idea that anyone can embrace. Ideas range from "Off to College," "Baby's Here," "Welcome to the Neighborhood," "Book Lover's," "Martini Basket," and many, many more. A special section of food-themed baskets with homemade mixes for cookies or bread or seasonings will appeal especially to those who like to do kitchen crafts. In short, The Perfect Basket gives both seasoned and novice gift-givers everything you need to create spectacular thematic gifts for everyone on your list!

The Basket Book: Over 30 Magnificent Baskets To Make and Enjoy

Lyn Siler

List Price: $14.95 By: Sterling Amazon Marketplace: 34 new & used starting at $4.50

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 10 Average rating: 5.0 of 5

the Basket Book 5 out of 5 stars.
27 of 27 people found this review helpful.

This is the BEST beginner book on basketmaking that I have found. I believe it should be in everyones collection. The baskets are lovely and inovative. Even the most simple are elegant and useful. I have used this book until it is in shreds! The intructions are very clear and well illustrated. And the designs and patterns teach as well as instruct. I can`t say enough good about this book. If you intend to sell your baskets, this book will pay for itself on the first sale. And the baskets are charming and very saleable, even the easy ones. There are also some more challanging patterns for the more expirienced. A "must have" for any basketmaker.

Thorough and Easy to Learn From 5 out of 5 stars.
8 of 8 people found this review helpful.

Until I bought this book, I had never made a woven basket, only coiled ones. This book has made it easy for me to progress from one to the other. It has great technical drawings, easy to understand instructions, and beautiful photographs. The sections covering terminology, helpful hints, and resources have also been useful to me. This book also has a great variety of patterns, of which "Feather Basket" and "Potato Basket" are my favorites. I recommend The Basket Book for beginning basket makers.

J.H. Sweet, author of The Fairy Chronicles, and basket maker

Editorial Review:

Weave 32 basic designs by hand from natural materials—and adapt them for hundreds more designs. Complete instructions with over 600 close-up illustrations of each step. “Practical answers...imaginative asides.”—Craft Connection.

How to Start a Home-Based Gift Basket Business, 4th (Home-Based Business Series)

Shirley George Frazier

Amazon Price: $12.89 List Price: $18.95 Usually ships in 24 hours By: Globe Pequot Amazon Marketplace: 47 new & used starting at $4.25

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 8 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

Well on your way 5 out of 5 stars.
2 of 2 people found this review helpful.

If you are a current or aspiring home based business owner then you need to get acquainted with this author. Shirley Frazier Jones is one of the top 10%, one of the elite that can make it happen. With home based business on the rise, many entrepreneurs do not know where to start. If you want to learn about the gift basket business then read this book. I've had the pleasure of meeting Shirley and can tell you that she is both passionate and knowledgeable. Shirley knows what it takes. Read this book, follow the authors advice and you'll be well on your way.

gourmet gift 5 out of 5 stars.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful.

This is the second book I've read written by Shirley George Frazier. I've wasted a lot of money and time on information and research. If I would have bought this book 4 months ago, I would have spent far less money. This book is information packed. She has done everything for you. This book has everything from start-up to marketing and promotion. The only thing you have to do is implement what's there. I've said it, and I'll say it again, this lady is brilliant. This book should be apart of every home-based gift basket business. If you haven't read it, you are doing yourself and your business an injustice.

Editorial Review:

Crucial advice on how to design, promote, and sell gift baskets from a home-based operation. Tips on managing finances, beating the competition, organizing work spaces, and avoiding common pitfalls, along with helpful worksheets, will help turn an amateur into a successful entrepreneur. 

The Gift Basket Design Book, 2nd: Everything You Need to Know to Create Beautiful, Professional-Looking Gift Baskets for All Occasions (Gift Basket Design Book: Everything You Need to Know to Create)

Shirley George Frazier

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 3 Average rating: 4.0 of 5

A Particularly Well Written How-To Book, But... 4 out of 5 stars.
2 of 2 people found this review helpful.

I have read many how-to books especially business-related ones; however, seldom have I found a more clearly written book than "The Gift Basket Design Book". Ms. Shirley George Frazier's instructions are thorough, easy to understand and follow. Her explanations don't leave you guessing as to why she chose one method over another which will help one avoid costly mistakes. Her "tips" are an added feature that distinguishes her book from so many others. Finally, Ms. Frazier's resource lists and recommendations are on target for getting good prices for supplies, tools and basket ingredients. This book makes me believe that Ms. Frazier wants me to succeed in my new gift basket business and shared all her secrets to ensure I do so.

That said, I do have a criticism. While Ms. Frazier's instructions for arranging baskets are superb, I find that several of her finished products look a bit unprofessional. I believe the problem is two-fold. First, in some cases she has not selected ingredients with packaging that compliment each other, color-wise. Therefore, certain arrangements look bland versus cheerful. Second, in general, the pick embellishments (and some ribbons) do not look to be of good quality; do not share a common bond with each other or the gifts; and/or are skimpily placed. Usually, less is more but I believe the interior of her baskets would look more professional with an abundance of metallic shred, curled ribbon, ting ting and/or star sprays.

These comments are not intended to minimize the benefits of this book. The step-by-step photographed instructions are worth its price, alone. And if you have an eye for color and balance you can overcome the ingredient and embellishment issues. Plus, generously she has provided photos of baskets prepared by others that when studied will give insight into how to better embellish your baskets.

A Basketmaker's Odyssey: Over, Under, Around & Through: 24 Great Basket Patterns from Easy Beginner to More Challenging Advanced

Lyn Syler

Amazon Price: $16.29 List Price: $23.95 Usually ships in 24 hours By: Word Weavers Ink Amazon Marketplace: 27 new & used starting at $15.02

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 7 Average rating: 4.0 of 5

Go for it! 4 out of 5 stars.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful.

Nice projects for every skill level. Best feature: the wirebound book lies FLAT while you work.

worth it for one project 3 out of 5 stars.
0 of 0 people found this review helpful.

I read the reviews of this book before purchasing it, which were, on the whole, less than impressive. Lyn Syler has written many books on basketmaking, but this is the only one I know of with directions for making a basket designed by Patti Quinn Hill. Ms. Hill makes baskets that are astoundingly beautiful, and I was so excited to be able to follow in her footsteps. I doubt I will use the rest of this book, but this one project made it worth the purchase price.Paper in Three Dimensions: Origami, Pop-ups, Sculpture, Baskets, Boxes, and More

Editorial Review:

Novices as well as advanced basketmakers will be amazed by the variety of materials and techniques examined in this fully illustrated guide. Step-by-step instructions for 24 projects, eight of which are specifically designed for beginning weavers, are offered within the special lay-flat binding and describe the entire project—from weaving the base and upsetting the sides to applying a handle and finishing with a rim. Patterns are supplied for unique creations such as an Abenaki-style knitting basket, a fabric melon basket, a natural-vine wall basket, and a braided, twill tote. A special photo insert contains images of baskets from all over the world, making this a beautiful book to both use and display.

Fast, Fun and Easy Fabric Boxes: Eight Great Designs -- Unlimited Possibilities

Linda Johansen

Amazon Price: $11.53 List Price: $16.95 Usually ships in 24 hours By: C&T Publishing Amazon Marketplace: 58 new & used starting at $2.94

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 10 Average rating: 3.5 of 5

My 2 cents... 3 out of 5 stars.
18 of 19 people found this review helpful.

I saw a demo by the author on HGTV's "Simply Quilts" and downloaded those instructions from that site which were vague, at best. I managed to cobble-together a box using different brands and types of fusibles as those recommended by the author; it wasn't a rousing success. After reading these reviews, I'm still going to buy the book but now know to read it ALL before attempting another box. Perhaps if we write to the AUTHOR and publisher of the book with our concerns the revised edition (if there IS one) will be more clear. I feel it would be extremely helpful to note in the book alternative brands/types of fusibles because I couldn't find what was recommended at my local fabric store. I agree that some amount of experience with fusing fabrics is helpful...I had to draw on my experience to figure out how to get my fabrics to stick together. A lot of sewing experience isn't necessarily needed or even usable...you literally have to "think outside the box" (no pun intended) in order to parse out the instructions. I think now that I have made one, I've seen the mistakes I made...and how the box could be improved over what the author suggested, so I'm still going to buy the book.

Editorial Review:

Linda Johansen takes her popular fabric-bowl technique a step further with fused fabric boxes that can be made quickly and easily. Thirteen beautiful box projects include square boxes, to-go boxes, treasure chests, and recipe boxes - all with lids. Crafters have unlimited options for creating their own variations with the eight basic box designs offered. They can embellish their boxes with theme fabrics, hand-dyes, or whatever catches their eye. Crafters are even provided with instructions on making truly unique boxes such as a fabric fortune cookie box. • 13 beautiful projects for Square Boxes, To-Go Boxes, Treasure Chests, Recipe Boxes, and more, all with lids included • 8 basic box designs offer unlimited options for creating your own variations • Each box is unique - choose theme fabrics, hand-dyes, or whatever catches your eye, and embellish to suit your style • Make your own quick gifts or gift boxes • BONUS instructions for fabric fortune cookies!

The Ultimate Basket Book: A Cornucopia of Popular Designs to Make (Diy Network)

Lyn Siler

Amazon Price: $13.57 List Price: $19.95 Usually ships in 24 hours By: Lark Books Amazon Marketplace: 38 new & used starting at $11.59

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 6 Average rating: 3.5 of 5

Big Disappointment 2 out of 5 stars.
7 of 7 people found this review helpful.

I read the previous review and decidid to buy the book anyway. The previous reviewer was absolutely correct -- nothing new here. I believe readers would be better served with Lyn Siler's two previous books.

Great basket making book 5 out of 5 stars.
5 of 5 people found this review helpful.

This book came highly recommended by my basket instructor. The directions are clear and accurate, the baskets vary from easy to advanced, and the techniques are illustrated with clear and accurate photos and drawings. This is the basket book to have!

Editorial Review:

Two of the most celebrated basket-making books - "The Basket Book" 0-8069-6830-3 (277,000 copies sold) and "Handmade Baskets" (69,000) - are now together in one magnificent resource. Better still, it features 10 extra projects and beautiful brand-new colour photography. In this thoroughly illuminating book, Lyn Siler explores tools and materials; introduces all the fundamental techniques - weaving, plaiting, coiling, twining & wailing and provides advice on adding rims, bases and handles. With her help, it's simple to create functional everyday baskets, such as the Twill Weave Market or Double Lidded Picnic baskets, as well as decorative items.

Basic Basket Making: All the Skills and Tools You Need to Get Started (Stackpole Basics)

Amazon Price: $13.57 List Price: $19.95 Usually ships in 24 hours By: Stackpole Books Amazon Marketplace: 30 new & used starting at $12.65

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Editorial Review:

Step-by-step instructions complete with detailed color photographs

* Includes a chapter on dyeing reed at home

* 4 basic basket projects for the beginning weaver

The art of basket making is described in detail for the beginning or experienced weaver. Complete with a chapter on tools and materials to get started, this easy-to-use guide explains and illustrates how to weave reed, incorporate premade handles, finish basket rims, and a host of other basket-making techniques. It also contains a chapter on dyeing reed, a simple and cost-effective way to obtain desired colors and results. Complete instructions for making a Flared Bun Basket, Small Market Basket, Napkin Basket, and Easter Basket teach necessary skills.