SYMBOLS AND DESIGNS
All across the world humans have used symbols and designs to express ideas, stories or feelings. Symbols
were first used to communicate. Many early languages began with drawings. Even today we use symbols to
express ourselves Some of these designs are sacred and have special meanings. Many tell a historical story
or myth to be passed down through generations. Suns, stars, moons and animals are very common designs.
Interestingly we can also see the same or similar symbols used across cultures. In appreciation for worldwide
cultural expression, our kits include designs from many locations. Once you learn the skill of creating a basket
or piece of pottery, virtually any design can be woven into the basket or painted on the pot.
Our kits will teach you the following craft skills:
BASKETRY
Basketry weaving is a fun and relaxing activity that people of many cultures have enjoyed for many thousands
of years. In most places of the world, baskets can be found. Different geographic areas have their own unique
styles, largely based on the materials that are available there. Traditional materials come from such things as
grasses, rushes, barks, reeds, canes, roots, split leaves, split twigs and also animal parts such as sinew. Tools
can be fashioned from stones, bones and metals.
Preparing basket making materials is a very important and special part of the process of weaving a basket.
Because the average person in today’s world does not have access or time to prepare raw materials for basket
making, we have chosen the best, most accessible and easiest to use materials for our kits. For example, raffia
might not be a traditional material in the Americas, because it is found in the tropics, but it does a great job as a
substitute to rushes, reeds, roots, split leaves, split twigs and sinew. Basically, we want you to learn the skills
so you can continue to create more baskets with whatever materials inspire you.
The four main types of basketry are coiling, plaiting, twining and wicker. Each type requires different types of
materials and has many variations of designs, shapes, sizes and techniques. Our kits are designed with the
beginner in mind. However, we also offer many kits for the more advanced basket maker, who is willing to put
in several hours to complete a more elaborate pattern. Many of our kits include design templates so that you
can create your own patterns and order supplies from us as needed.
POTTERY
Pottery is also a traditional craft that most cultures that had access to clay performed. Pots were made for
practical uses such as foods storage and preparation, as well as ceremonial and decorative purposes. Today we
still enjoy hand made pottery made by artisans and sold in many galleries across the world. We have
developed our pottery kits so that you can complete an air dried pinch pot and decorate it with as many
decorative design options as you like.
OTHER CRAFTS
People are extremely creative and when there is a need for something, it can be made. We have also included
several other craft kits such as weaving, ornaments, noise making instruments, rock carvings.
FEEDBACK
We welcome your feedback and would always love to see your finished designs. As an interesting note, I took
a basket making workshop, and every basket made at the workshop looked different from the others. We were
all attempting the same basket with the same instruction. So please do not be discouraged if your basket looks
different than the basket in the photo on the cover of our kit booklet. It’s unique to you. As you make more
baskets, your own style will emerge.
Every year we will expand your line of kits to add more crafts techniques and design options. If you have a
recommendations please let us know!
Learn traditional craft skills. Easy-to-use quality materials. Color step-by-step instructions. Family owned and operated. Made in USA.
™ & © 2020 Traditional Craft Kits, inc.