Make a Basket in the Tradition of Native American Ash Splint Baskets

Ages 6-10

  1. 1.Using the wider strips, make a plus sign (+) and tape it in

the center.  Make another one and tape it in the center.

  1. 2.Now, place one plus sign over the other so that the legs of

one are between the legs of the other. That is your star.  Tape

the star in the center to hold it together.

  1. 3.Place your star over the can (your basket mold). This

will form the bottom of your basket.  Bend the strips over

your mold and crease where they bend. The strips have

become your warp pieces.

  1. 4.Turn your mold over and set it on the table. Slide

the rubber band up to the top of the mold.

Cut from paper (the weight of file folders or poster board works best):

4 paper strips 3/4 inch wide and 15 inches long

5 strips 1/2 in wide and 12 inches long

You will also need:

1 small tomato paste can

scissors

clear plastic tape

1 elastic band

NOTE: TO PRINT THIS PAGE, RIGHT-CLICK ON BLANK SPACE AND CHOOSE “PRINT,” OR GO TO THE FILE MENU AND SELECT “PRINT.”

After Your Visit, Page 2 • Activities To Do Before Your Visit

Resources for Educators • Mt. Kearsarge Indian Museum Home

After Your Visit