Weaving Stands

I have been busy lately building more of my weaving stands. I had sold out before Christmas, which I told myself I would not let happen and of course received two back to back orders. I had to even end up selling the new stand I had made for myself!

Here is a corner of my wood working shop. I have 24 stands in process, normally they are in all different stages, but this time I am moving all of them through at the same time. I am going to be vending at the Stateline Friends Weaving Retreat this April 15th, 16th and 17th. Last year I sold out on the first day, so I want to have plenty to take with me.

One of the three stands that I do have completed, setup and ready to go. I wove the basket on the stand at the last Stateline retreat, so I guess I had better get it finished up!

If you have never seen one of my stands in action they are custom made by me and are perfect for weaving on a mold if you don't have a table to clamp a stand to or simply want to be portable (they are great for weaving in front of the TV with). Visit my website for more details and to download an order form.

Leon Niehues

Leon Niehues is a contemporary white oak basketmaker from Huntsville, Arkansas. I have been fortunate to meet Leon a number of times at the St. Louis Art Fair and during one of those visits I purchased this magnificent basket.

White Oak Basket by Leon Niehues

8" x 8.5"

Leon is featured in ionART–Art and Culture Magazine. Also you can visit his personal website to see more of his work. Leon has a distinctive style that mixes traditional techniques and materials with contemporary forms and embellishments.

Tips for saving your finger nails

I swear by a product called "Nail Envy" by OPI. It is a nail polish that is clear and super strong. According to the instructions, you are to put two coats on the first time and then one additional coat each day for a week. From experience though, after having your hands in water, etc., that many coats ends up looking pretty crappie and yellowed. I usually do the first double coat two days before class and then one coat the day before. If I need to touch up any chips I just reapply as needed. I usually only have to add more coats on my index and middle fingers as those are the ones that do the work and take the beating. If you are taking a full week of class I have about half-way though wiped my nails with polish remover which smoothes the Nail Envy and makes your nails look presentable again,. You can then add a fresh coat once the smoothed polish dries. Ever since I started using this stuff I have not had any sever problems with my nails breaking or chipping. You still might get a little chip here or there, but if you apply the Nail Envy it will keep it from getting progressively worse. Of course as a male I get funny looks when I go into the beauty supply store and ask where the nail polish is. They make a "matte" finish and it does look very natural, but as soon as you touch it is shiny, so I don't know why they even bother. I used to try to clean it all off after the class is over, but it is so tough that it takes forever to get it all off with acetone, so now, since it is clear anyway I just let it wear off.