A Nantucket-style basket is a sturdy woven basket built on a wooden base and shaped over a mold, often finished with a wooden rim and a carved lid. It is a good craft to learn because the mold gives the basket its shape.
What you need
- A wooden base, such as cherry or maple
- A mold to shape the basket
- Cane for the weaving
- A fitted rim and, for the classic look, a lid
Start small
The 3 inch Nantucket Style Complete Basket Kit includes a cherry base, a cherry rim and cane, and is a gentle introduction. When you are ready for a lid, the Under the Sea kit has a carved mermaid-and-anchor lid, and the Shells and Leaves kits have carved lids too. Many of these kits can be bought without the mold if you already own one.
Tips
- Read your pattern all the way through before cutting anything.
- Keep each row snug and even; the mold keeps the shape, but tension keeps the weave neat.
- Work in good light so you can see the stakes line up.
Browse every complete kit or read how to weave a basket on a slotted base.
About the mill: Williams Family Mill is a family business in Burgaw, North Carolina. Candice Williams has taught basket weaving for several decades, published patterns and served as Vice-President of the North Carolina Basketmakers’ Association. Questions? Call 910-599-0446 or contact the mill.