The Details
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Light in weight and useful for all kinds of things around the house, this tray is a regular favourite at my fairs, markets and shows, in all sizes and combinations of willow.
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Brush with a soft brush if dusty. If muddy, give it a shower, brushing gently while you rinse, then dry it outside in the wind in a shady spot so it's dry within a few hours. Don't leave it outdoors in wet or damp weather: after a few hours the stripped willow soaks up the moisture.
Made with a Respect for the Material
Give every basketmaker the same project and they'll each finish a very different basket. I like to work very neatly, but I also like things to be natural. If a willow rod isn't quite what you'd expect, and it doesn't affect the integrity of the rod, I make a feature of it.
The connection between the material, me as the maker, and you as the person who will love and use it for many years is one of the main reasons I'm a full-time basketmaker.

