Pine Needle Basket and Open Ended Form

Working with pine needles is a new discovery for me, inspired by the Native American's use of natural materials to create beautiful objects.

The pine needles were collected on the ground along the Clinton River Trail. I turned to the internet on how to create using pine needles. In Michigan I found needles as long as 4". However in the south and the west they have trees that give needles up to an amazing 18" long. Once I began wrapping and coiling my project the advantage of the longer needles became crystal clear.

I really enjoyed this project and see the tremendous possibilities creatively.  While these are my first attempts working and making using pine needles - the stitching and overall quality is what one would expect from a beginner- I am hooked. I have continued to collect the needles for future projects.

Below is a picture of pine needles that have been washed, rinsed, boiled, and are now drying. They have a beautiful sheen and rich brown color. While this step is not required it does remove any dirt or bugs that might be living within them. And, they are clean to handle.



   Aya

detail view: grasses, iris head pods, milkweed cotton, branches



Bizzi

detail: grass,egg shell, hydrangea, seeds, threads & beads, branches

Cassi

detail: grass, egg shell, luna seed pods, pine cone bits, branches

 Walking bridge over Clinton River