Basketry and Weaving #262345

Undoubtedly the first vessels used by man were shells and gourds. Later he made receptacles of clay. In order more conveniently to carry these, a rude sort of twisted netting was made. The clay broke easily, and he found that the net ted cover still served him. He gradually improved upon this, and different forms of baskets were the result. From this crude beginning there has grown up through the ages an art that to-day supplies us with necessities and luxuries. Indeed, if we were to eliminate woven products from our homes, in the form of carpets, rugs, curtains, linen and clothing, we should have little left of our boasted civilization. In his early school life the child contrasts the simple build ing, weaving and home life of early days with the complex building, weaving and life of to — day. He constructs minia ture huts, spins and weaves wool for miniature garments and models clay dishes. He is taught to observe nature as did early man, who depended upon the seasons to furnish his food supply. He must know when to sow the seed and how to harvest and store it. When he wishes to dye his weaving materials, he must go to nature for his colors. In searching for materials, the child is taken to the heart of Africa, where he finds the natives constructing their homes and clothing from the fiber of the palm. He becomes more interested in geography. And is enabled to form more perfect images of the people of other lands and their occupations. He also learns of the struggle of mankind to supply his needs.