Beginner Wheat Weaving Project #3
"Art Deco Ornament"

Materials needed for this beginner's project:

Preparing the wheat for weaving (makes two figures):

  1. Prepare straws by trimming bottom of the straws just above the first joint (node)and slip off the leaves.
  2. Select 6 similar straws that are a least 13" long (not counting the seed heads).
  3. Cut off the seed heads about 1/2" below their bases.
  4. Soak these 6 straws in hot tap water for about an hour.
  5. If big end of straws crack when you try to bend them, let them soak longer.

Steps:

  1. After soaking them, cut each straw in half and trim all pieces to 6" lengths.
  2. Set aside 6 of the 6" straws for a second figure but keep them warm and wet.
  3. Line up the remaining six pieces and place a tie string under them at their centers
  4. While holding the straws side-by-side on a flat surface tighten the tie.
  5. Let the straws fan out as you tighten the knot (see Figure 3-1).
  6. While holding all of the straws flat on your work surface bring one of the bottom two straws down to the centerline.
  7. Bring the bottom straw on the other side down to the centerline (see Figures 3-1 and 3-2).
  8. Repeat this process until all the straws are brought together parallel to the centerline (see Figure 3-2).
  9. Make a tight tie 1/2" below the first tie (see Figure 3-2 and 3-3).
  10. Trim the figure at angles that look good to you (see Figure 3-3).
  11. Shape and pin the figure on a piece of cardboard and allow it to dry.
  12. Once the figure is dry you can paint it or leave it natural.
  13. Using a string or ornament hook hang the decoration on your Christmas tree (see Figure 3-4).

 
Figure 3-1


Figure 3-2


Figure 3-3


Figure 3-4

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