Arts Planning Guide:
Project Title:
Estimated
Time:
Designed by: Mary Miller
Coil Basket Weaving
7 or 8 classes
Grade 8
Level:
Other Discipline(s) Integration:
Social Studies
Objectives:
To educate students about Native American basketry, one of the oldest known
crafts on the continent
To experience the creation of a decorative, but useful object.
To broaden students understanding of the use of line, shape, form, texture,
pattern and space in the form of a fiber project.
Kick-Off Activity:
Show examples of baskets teacher purchased from Native Americans, and
show examples made by teacher.
Show “Fiber-Coiled Basketry” an American Craft Museums series movie
(available from Crystal Productions).
Process/
Directions
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Show the video, “Fiber-Coiled Basketry”, and discuss various styles
and patterns possible.
Students sketch their ideas for baskets or trivets with patterns.
Demonstrate how to start a coil basket for both right and left handed
students, having them follow along on the handout sheet, and as it’s
being demonstrated.
Demonstrate the coiling methods of using both the figure 8 stitch and
interlocking stitch, and explain the use of each. (I require that they use
the figure 8 stitch all the time, except when changing colors, because
it is a much tighter stitch.)
Students receive a 12 to 15-foot piece of coiling core and may choose
up to 4 colors of yarn or raffia with which to weave. Work with students
individually to ensure a successful start and understanding of the
correct way to warp and stitch.
Upon completion of the baskets or trivets, students will present their
creations to the class, explaining their choice of colors and how it
makes their pattern work for the use of the basket. They will also
compare their work to each other’s work and to that of the examples of
Native American baskets.
Materials
Up to 15 feet of ¼” coiling core, yarn, raffia, weaving needle (#18
tapestry), scissors, paper and pencil and “Fiber Coiled Basketry” movie
Vocabulary
Coiling core, fiber, spiral,
Elements
Line
Value
Balance
Shape
Rhythm
Color
Space
Movement
Form
Unity (Harmony)
Texture
Contrast
Principles
Resources/
Research
Assessment/
Criteria
Pattern (repetition)
Emphasis (Focal Point)
Past issues of Arizona Highways magazines with examples of
basketry, actual baskets purchase in Arizona, teacher made baskets
Weaving: Use of pattern, usefulness of finished product, quality
workmanship, tight stitches, no loose ends or knots
Presentation: eye contact, communication skills, knowledge base