Basket Weaving for Learners with Deafblindness

Basket weaving is a hands-on skill that promotes independence and creativity in learners with deafblindness. This guide gives a step-by-step method, beginning with safety tips, setting up the work area, and choosing materials. It explains how to prepare weaving strips, arrange colors, and build basket bases, edges, and handles. Learners are supported through hand-under-hand guidance and clear tactile cues to help them follow each stage confidently.

This activity improves touch sensitivity, muscle control, and pattern awareness. It also encourages decision-making and responsibility. The baskets can be sold, helping learners earn money and feel proud of their work. They can try different colors, shapes, and sizes using local, low-cost materials. With the right support, basket weaving becomes more than just a craft—it becomes a path to inclusion, life skills, and income generation in the community.

Step-by-Step Basket Weaving Guide

1. Preparing for the Activity

• Ensure a quiet, distraction-free environment.
• Use a large, clean, and stable worktable.
• Begin with a conversation about safety: emphasize the careful handling of scissors, weights, and plastic materials.
• Introduce the workspace by letting the learner explore the table edges, tools, and materials through touch.

2. Materials Needed

• Plastic strips or ribbons (various colors)
• Weights for securing materials
• Tape measure (with tactile indicators)
• Scissors (with safety grips)
• Basket molds or guides (optional)
• Apron or cloth for protection
• Object of reference for basketry
• Locally available items: sisal, banana fibres, polythene, wooden frames, recycled plastics

3. Selecting and Preparing Materials

• Guide the learner in selecting two or three colors for weaving.
• Use tactile cues (e.g., color-coded strips or textures) to differentiate materials.
• Cut base strips (“wefts”) to 15 inches—arranged vertically to form the base.
• Cut cross strips (“warps”) to 20 inches—these run horizontally across the wefts.

4. Weaving the Base

• Demonstrate the under-over weaving method using hand-over-hand technique.
• Start each row opposite to the last (if one starts under, the next starts over).
• Reinforce pattern and rhythm with tactile prompting.
• Secure the base once six wefts and eight warps are in place.

5. Building the Basket

• Bend and tuck the outer strips upwards to form sides.
• Weave additional strips around the perimeter, maintaining the over-under pattern.
• Use touch to guide the learner’s hands and reinforce correct alignment.
• Tuck in all ends once the desired height is reached.

6. Finishing Touches

• Introduce decorative elements (e.g., one-color trim or braided handles).
• Show how to measure, cut, and braid handles symmetrically.
• Guide learners to fix handles through holes and secure using knotting or weaving.
• Reinforce confidence with verbal and tactile praise.

7. Cleaning and Storing

• Guide learners in clearing the workspace and organizing tools.
• Label or tag the baskets with name/date (where possible).
• Store finished items in a dry, safe area.

Learning Outcomes & Benefits

Learners develop fine motor skills and tactile discrimination.
Promotes independence, focus, and routine following.
Supports economic empowerment through potential basket sales.
 Encourages creativity, color recognition, and pattern memory.
 Enhances confidence and community inclusion through meaningful contribution.

Additional Tips

• Use calendar systems or object schedules to prepare learners for the session.
• Create visual or tactile guides showing each weaving stage.
• Encourage family involvement to support practice at home.
• Adjust basket size and material stiffness based on the learner’s grip and mobility.
• Celebrate each completed basket with feedback, display, or sale where appropriate.