This is my very first blog post and it is very fitting that it is not only about basket weaving but also about a book: Earth Basketry by Osma Gallinger Tod. This book was first published in 1933 and is still in print today–most likely due to the fact that it has amazing information and illustrations that take you step-by-step through the wonders of basketry. All types of weaving materials found in nature, a variety of weaves, basket borders, lids, handles, detailed illustrations created by the author…and that’s just in Part I!
I came across this book when I was looking online at another book a fellow weaver recommended to me. Being a retired librarian, instead of instantly purchasing it, I checked out the only copy of Earth Basketry in our local library system. After reading the first chapter on “Nature’s Storehouse of Basketry Materials,” I was hooked. Determined that I now needed my own copy of this book, I found an older edition listed on Thriftbooks and purchased it. I wasn’t expecting to get a pristine, signed by the author, first edition but that’s exactly what arrived in my mailbox yesterday. Talk about thrilling! Okay, okay…I am a librarian and a basket weaver so give me a break–ha!
I can’t wait to delve more into this fascinating book and hopefully make some of the beautiful baskets described within its pages. I also want to learn more about Osma. She sounds like a person I’d like to get to know better–even if it is only through her books.