Mother's Day Gift Idea

04/17/2012

 

APPLE TWIG BASKET

Apple trees need trimmed every spring.   A resourceful way to use the pruned branches is to make a twig basket.  The sucker twigs are straight, flexible, and soft enough for cutting into short lengths with hand pruners.  A tray style basket is quick and easy to make.   This is a native craft that many children have achieved at summer camps!  Give it a try and enjoy your success.

HOW TO CREATE 

MATERIALS:
Twigs, hammer, small nails, jute
Bottom Twigs:
4 twigs 8 inch long (1/2 inch diameter)
6 twigs 8 inch long (1/2 inch diameter)
Sides Twigs:
4 twigs 8 inch long ( 1/2 diameter)
12 twigs 8 inch long & smaller than 1/2 diameter
Handles Twigs:
2 twigs 18 inches long for the handle

MAKE TWIG BASKET:
  1. Cut 4 twigs - 8 inches long & about 1/2 inch in diameter
  2. Nail the 4 pieces together forming a square - allow 1 inch overhand on each end.
  3. Make a bottom by nailing 6 small twigs (8 inches long) inside the square.  
  4. Cut 4 twigs - 8 inches long (less than 1/2 inches in diameter) then nail into place to begin to make the sides.  Repeat using a little smaller diameter piece for each layer.  
  5. Cut flexible branch 18 inches to 24 inches long to form a handle.  Bend it slowly to shape and nail it to the bottom rung with a nail, staple, or using string.  You may want to wire the handle into shape and leave the wire in place until the twig handle  dries.  Wrap jute around the handles where the twigs overlap.
  6. Optional:  Lace the corners and bottom twigs with jute to further secure the twigs if needed.
 


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