Pine Needle Baskets

This tray feels "softer" than some.  It uses larger coils and the warp threads are not pulled as tightly together.

It has been varnished, but is still flexible.  

It was started with a plastic helper in the center and built out from there.  

There is no damage or staining to the base.  In fact, because the rafia warp used for stitching was carried along on the bottom, it is well protected from damage or staining from the bottom.  

For some reason it makes me think of the collection plates at a church I attended when I was a child.

This picture gives you the best idea of what the basket would look like sitting on your desk.  It would hold keys, coins, cell phone, etc.  

This closeup shows the quality of work from very close in.  You can see the different colors of rafia and the natural color of the dried needles between the stitches.