In Morocco, Berber children learn how to weave rugs out of wool colored with plant dyes. Your child can use this simple technique, featured in NATIVE ARTISTS OF AFRICA (John Muir Publications), to craft a belt or bookmark.

MATERIALS

3 yards heavy twine
4 plastic drinking straws
3 pieces of colored yarn, each 36 inches long

INSTRUCTIONS

First, cut the twine into four equal pieces and thread each of them through a straw. Tie four of the ends together above the straws with an overhand knot. Knot the opposite ends of the twine individually.

Tie a piece of yarn to the twine just below the top knot. Weave the yarn under and over the straws from side to side, using your fingers to push up each row and slide the straws down. To change colors, tie a new piece of yarn to the end of the first one and weave in the loose ends.

When you reach the desired length, remove the straws. To secure the last row, tie a square knot with the two pieces of twine on the left. Repeat with the pair on the right. Finally, tie together the four twine pieces with an overhand knot.

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• Clothes Decorating |
• School Age |
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