Coiled rope basketry continues to dominate the FanningSparks studio. The techniques are easy to learn and projects can be completed quickly. Once you get the hang of it, coiling basic projects like coasters, trivets, platters and shallow bowls is very relaxing. Plus, there are countless ways to get creative with handles, loops, knots, tassels, braids and so on. It’s not difficult to create amazing coiled rope projects. In fact, it’s rather addictive!
At its most basic, coiled rope is a length of cordage wound in a spiral or sequence of rings. In the nautical context, coiling rope is an important part of keeping a vessel’s essential rope and cordage, eg sheets, halyards and cables, “at all times ready for use and free to run”. This expert advice is offered by author Hervey Garrett Smith in his classic book The Arts of the Sailor: Knotting, Splicing and Ropework.
Maybe it’s the vast expanse of sparkling white snow that has me dreaming about spring flowers. Or maybe it’s just that flowers have always been a go-to motif for creative endeavors. In either case, I’ve been having fun making blossoms and blooms out of fabric.
One of the many fascinating artifacts on exhibit in the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic in Lunenburg, Nova Scotia is a sailors’ valentine. A sailors’ valentine is a mosaic of small seashells artistically arranged in a symmetrical pattern. Traditionally, the fragile artwork is protected behind glass in a double octagonal wooden frame which is hinged for safe transport.
As the world reels from the horrific situation in the United States, there is a tad of relief to be found in observing annual events such as Valentine’s Day. Traditionally, this day of hearts and flowers was focused on romantic relationships. But it has evolved to include all manner of love ― including love and appreciation for partners, friends, family, neighbours and self. Love, appreciation, kindness and caring ― these are all qualities we need more than ever.
Turns out, my new Repurposed Cardboard Storage Bins create the perfect grid of blank canvases. There are nine separate surfaces begging to be taken to the next level. So, the new plan is to cover each bin in a different fabric and then embellish it with a different design using a variety of techniques ― essentially turning the panel of cardboard bins into a textile art gallery.
