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Golden lace basket

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This project was inspired by a metal bird’s nest made by a local sculptor who specialises in steel. I decided to make something similar and experimented with string, wood, wire and lace. The lace version was the most glorious. From steel to lace – it is possible!

Recycled items

  • inflatable plastic ball (e.g. a beach ball)
  • thick lace with a prominent pattern, enough to cover a quarter of the ball
  • gold fabric spray paint

Also needed

  • pump to inflate ball
  • bowl (for ball to rest on)
  • petroleum jelly
  • old bowl (to pour the Powertex into)
  • Powertex
  • sharp scissors
  • dust mask
  • protective gloves
  • old newspaper

Method

  1. Inflate the ball with a pump if necessary.
  2. Place the ball in a bowl to give it a solid stand and cover it with petroleum jelly.
  3. Stretch the lace over a quarter of the ball and use a sharp pair of scissors to cut around the pattern of the lace along the circumference of the ball to accentuate the embellished border.
  4. Place the lace in a bowl and saturate it with Powertex, using your fingers to submerge it if necessary.
  5. Drape the lace evenly over the ball surface and cut away any unwanted lace.
  6. Gently stretch and smooth the lace and remove any air bubbles and excess glue with your hands.
  7. Leave to dry for about 48 hours. Ensure that the lace is completely dry before you remove it by popping the ball with a pin and gently removing any plastic ball from the nest.

Caution When working with Powertex, ensure that there is running water nearby and that your work surface is protected. Wear a dust mask and protective gloves in a well-ventilated area while spray painting, and leave the sprayed item on old newspaper.

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