Earlier this week, I ordered a proper set of basketry tools. I got them today and now I feel like a real basket maker.
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| From left, snips, hawkbill knife, 3/8-inch bodkin, 1/2-inch bodkin, and whomper from Tools by Winslow. |
These tools are made in Morrison, IL in a shop called Tools by Winslow. Since 1975, Jim Winslow has been making such tools as awls. In 2018, he started making basketry tools, except for the snips. The snips' shears are modified to make it easier to cut in a basket's tight spaces. Here's a look at how a bodkin is made.
Jim has now passed the business down to his nephew, Kenneth, who reports he has been building a good amount of stock because of recent demand. I love hearing about small, family businesses doing well.
I'm looking forward to using these tools on my next basket.
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