Happy Second Day of Spring ~

Sweetgrass baskets were found throughout Charleston and the surrounding areas.  Coiled basketry, one of the oldest African crafts in America, appeared in South Carolina during the late 17th century.  The first known baskets in the Lowcountry were fanner baskets used for winnowing rice.  Bulrush, palmetto fronds and pine needles are the mainstays of coiled basketry.

Booths set up at the Old Slave Mart.  Baskets I saw ranged in price from about $15 to $3500 depending on the complexity of the weaving and size.  

Most booths also sold roses made from palmetto fronds.  Here a vendor is making them.  As the fronds dry, they will change color.

This is Laurie from whom I bought 3 small baskets.  The weaving is a family affair.  She says her husband and son also weave the baskets, but do not like doing the small ones.  Somehow I just can't picture either of my sons weaving baskets . . . lol :)

The smallest is only 2 1/2" in diameter.

The sweetest little quilt block from Jennie.  It measures a mere 3 1/2" x 4 3/4".  She does English paper piecing and I think this was made that way.  Thanks, Jennie. 

A couple treasures found at an antique shop.  I just couldn't come home empty handed :)

I just love this oyster shell angel.  I brought home a large bag of oyster shells I gathered on the beach and hope to make some of these.  

Thanks so much for stopping by.

Pug hugs :)
Lauren