Almost extinct
I am a specialist in fine skeinwork, a very labor intensive and almost extinct basketry technique. Willow rods are separated and shaven into fine strips. During my education in Germany I was caught by this technique and got the possibility to focus on this technique for three years on a row. Nowadays I do restoration work for museums and private costumers. I weave replicas from historical pieces and develop ideas from designers and artists.
From rod to skein
Willow rods from 2.50 m are divided into three or four with a special willow cleave. The long strips are then shaven, by hand, on a special bench made in Germany by my old master Herr Popp. Every skein is cleaned over a knife before it can be used. Every object has it’s own unique wooden mould. The result is a fragile looking object that when touched is surprisingly strong.
