: Thanks Mike! Sounds like 3" is a good way to go. I was wondering...to
: solve the shrinkage problem could I soak all of the cut willow in water
: until I used them? That way none of them would be able to dry
: out....because I am sure I won't get them all done right at the same time.

: Erin

Hi Erin,
Soaking in water is what most weavers do. If you have any good bogs near you, peat bogs with oak in it, you can actually use the bog water as a preservative (the tannin content) and it stains the wood a deep rich brown. This would be an over winter idea.
But the water alone works fine. I've seen pannier and turf baskets being made like this and it stays nicely flexible when soaked.

The willow ribs I used were about the 3/8", my small finger was my measure. The thicker ends, I just tapered down until they fit. I think they did go into 1/4" holes and I used a long taper to minimise stress points.

Hope this helps,
Mike Savage
South West Cork