Return

Information provided by Sandra Bowles. This article first appeared in Shuttle Spindle & Dyepot (SS&D), Issue 110, Spring 1997. SS&D strives to include learning experiences for young people to encourage them to create their own fiber traditions.

Weaving with fresh lavender was popular in Victorian times. Woven bunches or "bottles," as they were sometimes called, were ideal for scenting clothes or linens. Lavender bottles dry naturally and keep their clean, fresh scent. They can be hung in closets or placed in drawers to add a touch of spring!

Supplies Needed:
fresh lavender stems, about 15 to 17 (always use an odd number)
thread (dark color)
needle
scissors
about 1 1/4 yards of 1/4 inch ribbon

Directions:


 Step 1

Group lavender stems of even diameter and tie tightly just below the flower heads with thread.
Step 2

Turn upside down and gently hold flower heads in one hand. Using your other hand carefully turn stems back over the flower heads.
Step 3

Begin weaving with the ribbon, leaving a small tail-which will be tucked inside the "cage" later.
Step 4

Continue weaving under one stem and over the next stem, forming a cage or basket around the flower heads.

Step 5

Wrap ribbon tightly around the stems and tie. Cut off the excess ribbon.

Step 6

Using the remaining piece of ribbon, tie a bow and a hanging loop.

If fresh lavender is not available, dried lavender stems can be soaked in water for about 1 hour. Be especially careful not to soak the flowers. Your lavender bottles can be given as gifts to friends or used in the closet or drawers in your room. Try weaving with different kinds and colors of ribbons or other materials. Decorate with small bows, or flowers or lace.

Can you think of other herbs or flowers that could be used which would have a nice scent? Could you make the basket bottle from vines, or other materials?

Want to find out more about lavender? Want to know how to grow or where to purchase? Try your local nursery or library, or search for lavender on the World Wide Web. Email HGA photos of your bottles—we'd love to share some of your work with others around the world on our Web site.