Monthly Archives: April 2009

Tulips

Tulips are what attract visitors to the Skagit Valley every April, and sometimes into May like this year. The tulip fields have generally reached full bloom. This week is the last one to appreciate the stunning view of large blocks … Continue reading

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Thank you gift

Katherine recently received this lovely purse from basketmaker Kathey Ervin. Kathey has a business called The Basketry Studio in Sequim, WA. She makes baskets and teaches classes using Northwest native materials. The purse was an unexpected thank you for Katherine’s … Continue reading

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Magazine baskets

Here are three recent willow magazine baskets made by Katherine. The basket is woven on an oval hoop frame and the stakes are scallomed on. The sides can be woven in a variety of weaves like the French randing above … Continue reading

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Planting willow

What to do with those willow cuttings? Willows are usually propagated by planting hardwood cuttings directly in the soil. This method works especially well with willows grown for basketry and other garden uses. Dunbar Gardens sells cuttings about 11 inches … Continue reading

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Anniversary basket

A gift of willow is suggested for the ninth anniversary. We have had several inquiries over the years for anniversary baskets.  These have included a flower gathering basket, a small berry picker, a Celtic rope coil, a trivet, and a … Continue reading

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Easter basket

Katherine recently shipped this basket off to Alabama. The buyer wanted an Easter basket for her new grandson. She was particularly fond of the zig zag side weave that she saw in a photo of an oval shopper we had … Continue reading

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Open in April

April is the Tulip Festival in the Skagit Valley and Dunbar Gardens is open.

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Spring nesting

We’re finally getting some warm Spring weather. It’s nice to see and hear the birds swing into the mating season. The Black-capped Chickadees had already starting making their nest inside one of our nesting boxes, but they seemed to really … Continue reading

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