From the page: The newspaper still has plenty of stories to tell
Idea 1
Woven newspaper basketry
Basketry is one of humanity's oldest techniques — before ceramics existed, fibers were already being woven to carry and store things. With newspaper rolled into thin tubes, known as "paper wickers," the logic is the same: tubes that are flexible yet firm, gaining strength when woven together at an angle.
What you need
- Newspaper sheets
- A barbecue skewer or thick knitting needle (for rolling)
- White glue
- Scissors
- Clothespins or clips
- Gouache paint, dye or varnish (optional, for finishing)
How to make it
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1
Cut the newspaper sheets into strips about 8 cm wide — this size yields tubes that are firm and easy to handle.
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2
Roll each strip diagonally around the skewer, starting from the corner, and glue the tip so the tube doesn't unroll. The skewer sets the thickness and ensures they are all the same.
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3
Make 20 to 40 tubes: half will be the base (the "warps," which stay still) and half will be the weave you pass through them.
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4
Assemble the base by crossing 6 to 8 tubes like wheel spokes, glue the center and let it dry while held with clips — this base is the foundation of everything.
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5
Fold the spokes upward and weave the horizontal tubes in an "over one, under the other" pattern, always pressing firmly on each pass; it is this alternation that locks the structure.
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6
When you reach the desired height, fold the ends inward and glue them to finish the rim.
Finishing touches
Paint the tubes before weaving with diluted dye or gouache for an even result, or apply varnish afterwards to add rigidity and shine. Smaller baskets make great desk organizers.
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