Waxed Irish Linen Baskets and Pouches

 The Cloth of History

Linen is the oldest fabric known to man.  Fibers from the flax plant have been spun into thread to make linen for centuries.  Through Ireland’s early history, linen become a vital product of their agricultural economy.  Linen has played a role in the European and early American histories through the production and use of  rope, sail cloth, fine clothing, and the finest of table dressings. 

Pouches and miniBaskets for Today 

Using basket weaving techniques including twining and knotless netting, miniature baskets and pouches are created today by only a few artisans in North America.  The weaving techniques were derived largely from the maritime sailors as they used many of these techniques to make fishing nets and containers for long voyages.  

Florence is one of the few artisans in the US hand making these miniature baskets and pouches.   Fine waxed Irish linen is used to make a wonderfully durable and colorful item. 

Hand weaving miniature baskets and pouches is a process that involves only few tools, in which a number of threads of waxed linen are woven to create a thimble-sized basket or pouch. These can be worn as neckware or may hold precious gems, stones, or treasures.  Some  Native American tribes use these pouches to hold tobacco or sweetgrass.

We use gem stones and special bracelet  charms to adorn some of the baskets and pouches we make.