Materials that you will need

Pine Tree Needles

The longer the pine needles, the better as it will make the project go faster.  Fresh and dry pine needles are used during different steps in this project.  You will need many more dry pine needles than fresh ones.  A couple hands full of fresh pine needles will be all that you need.

If you can not find any fresh pine needles or don't want to pull any off of a tree, soak dry ones.  Do this by placing in water overnight or putting bowl/water/needles in the microwave for about 15 minutes.  Pine needles can also be purchased online.

Tapestry Needle

A Tapestry Needle is a needle with a large eye and a blunt tip.  A Yarn needle will also work.  Use a #16 - #18 needle size.  The needles just needs to have a eye big enough for the raffia to be easily threaded and the blunt tip.

Raffia

Raffia from a good craft store works well.  Walmart sells raffia, but it seems to shred in this project.  Raffia can also be purchased in various colors.  JoAnn, Roberts or Michael’s Craft stores carry most of the supplies that you will need.

Pliers

Pliers are nice to have handy while weaving the basket to  help to pull the needle through.  Needle nose pliers work the best.  A bandaid on your fingers will also give extra grip.

Straw

You will need a plastic straw that is not too small.  Slurpy straws are great.  They are a little bigger in roundness.  Simply cut off the end to 1  1/2 inches in length.  When using a slurpy straw, use the spoon end to shove the pine needles into.  (See picture #2.)

Scissors

Scissors with a sharp and pointed tip are best, as it allows you to cut the raffia close to the basket surface.