How to Harvest Tree Bark for basketry and creative projects. I go over responsible harvesting of willow or maple bark, and how to store/dry your tree bark treasure.
Thank you for taking the time to share your wisdom! The new videos are an inspiration and perfectly timed as I’m looking to up my weaving game this year, all starting with learning more about harvesting and drying different fibres! Quick 2 questions (sorry if I missed this in the video) How long do you dry the bark for before it’s ready to soak and use? Also where should I dry them? E.G ventilated shed or dry indoor room
Great questions; I dry my bark inside my house, in an airy spot (hanging up, or on wire shelves) for air flow. Don't roll the bark too too tight. Moisture/humidity is the enemy here. Depending on your climate (or your style of house), be sure to check the rolls for any mold as they dry. I've never had a problem, but I'm in a new(er) home in North America. I store ALL my basketry material inside my heated house. As for using bark, I soak for maybe 15 mins in warm water and mellow it in a damp towel for about another 1/2 hour. The thicker the bark, the longer you may have to soak or mellow. Thanks for your questions, and be sure to sign up for my newsletter!
Thank you so much for sharing your harvesting methods!
Thank you for taking the time to share your wisdom!
The new videos are an inspiration and perfectly timed as I’m looking to up my weaving game this year, all starting with learning more about harvesting and drying different fibres!
Quick 2 questions (sorry if I missed this in the video)
How long do you dry the bark for before it’s ready to soak and use?
Also where should I dry them? E.G ventilated shed or dry indoor room
Great questions; I dry my bark inside my house, in an airy spot (hanging up, or on wire shelves) for air flow. Don't roll the bark too too tight. Moisture/humidity is the enemy here. Depending on your climate (or your style of house), be sure to check the rolls for any mold as they dry. I've never had a problem, but I'm in a new(er) home in North America. I store ALL my basketry material inside my heated house. As for using bark, I soak for maybe 15 mins in warm water and mellow it in a damp towel for about another 1/2 hour. The thicker the bark, the longer you may have to soak or mellow. Thanks for your questions, and be sure to sign up for my newsletter!
@@christiyorkartist Thank you so much for your in depth reply, saved and ready for bark harvesting this year!!
Glad you liked it, thanks for your kind comment. I still plan on doing a part ll - is there anything you’d like to see explained in the next video?
If you do the video and we still have questions, we'll just have to ask for a party III ;) . You do a great job!