Weaving willows
Many species of willow can be used for weaving utility items and building structures. However, there are different variations, having different quality, as well as its specific properties, decisive about the ways of using wicker. For plaiting objects, Baskets and other structures are suitable for cultivated willows. The most popular species with us are:
• almond willow, also known as the three-pin (Salix trianda),
• American willow (Salix americana),
• purple willow (Salix purple),
• long-tipped willow (Salix dasyclados),
• basket willow, commonly known as hemp (Salix),
• and hanging willow (Salix alba lim. vellum).
Additionally, a dark brown blackening willow from North America should be mentioned (Salix nigra), which is suitable for constructing objects and frame members. It is worth finding out, what specific varieties are grown and used in your area. In addition to the main species, there are also less popular species, as well as numerous subspecies and crossbreeds (hybrids), which were created by chance or were bred. Also their appearance (color, leaf form, the length of the switches) can vary greatly. Each species of willow has additional properties determined by the type of substrate, climate and position. That is why there are different varieties of willows in different regions and countries, belonging to the main species.
The so-called plaiting wicker is sold and used most often in the form of annual rods. A distinction is made between un-debarked and barked bars (white or boiled). The dried, un-barked wicker is referred to as green, and products made of it as green wicker products. The white wicker is stripped of its bark. It is cut after the growing season, and then immersed in water. The rods soak up the water and sometimes release small roots. When the pulp of the wicker bars is activated, making them ready for debarking, the bark is peeled off them with a stripper. The right moment to do this is in the spring, as plant juices are activated and travel upward between the wood and bark. Another method of debarking is to steam or water the wicker and remove the bark only after this treatment. Various ingredients contained in the bark (for example. tannins) cause, that as a result of cooking, the bars acquire a permanent red-brown shade. Cooked wicker is also dried in the sun, which makes its shade even deeper. Such prepared raw material is often used to weave baskets for dogs, cats and shopping baskets. Painted wicker is also sold. If desired, you can paint the wicker yourself, using wood stain, azure paints and fabric dyes. However, only barked wicker can be painted, and the paints used should be light- and waterproof. If we create structures in the open air, we mainly use unbarked willow. Whether, do we make interior products, or external structures, before starting work, we must soak the wicker, to make it flexible and soft.