Chele Needens
Wyoming Basquet Weaver

Howdy, my name is Chele Needens, I'm from Buffalo, Wyoming where I live on a ranch with my husband Bill, daughter Cheyenne, dog Feather and various horses, cattle and cats. I am Basque and Native American. I hold my nationality and heritage very close to my heart. I believe that being yourself will get you further than wasting your time trying to be someone else, so with that I take who I am and what I am and add it to my just how unique I am. When I'm not working on my rope craft, I love to rodeo, hunt, and fish and spend time with my family and friends. I started making baskets and clocks when I had to hurtle over ropes in my barn while doing chores. At first I just made baskets, one and two rope, then on to three and even five rope baskets. But later I decided to experiment with my ropes and try to fashion one into a clock. I even made a footstool out of ropes; it held up quite well and looked nice, but after making a few clocks I've found that it's much easier, but I still enjoy making baskets as well. To make a basket I had my husband, Bill, fashion a jig so that I could start coiling the rope around three wire rods to get the circular shape that makes up the base. From there I continue to burn the rope between the coils to keep it together. When I'm finished with a basket or clock I usually add my initials and a few other special touches such as an elk or deer antler button to add a little pizzazz. Now it seems I can't find enough ropes to keep up with all the products I'm making, imagine that! But all in all, I really enjoy being a "Basquet weaver" and will continue to keep up with my coiling craft, rain or shine. By the way, know of any used ropes for sale?

Contact Chele
209 Klondike Road
Buffalo, WY 82834

307- 684-7843
Email
twoeyedbaker@hotmail.com