Lining a Sewing Basket

[Mother Dean]

Hello All,
I have a nice little basket that I would like to use as a sewing basket. I have seen the same shape in woodcuts from our period so that's not an issue. I have been using it and find that a lining with pockets would make it much more friendly. Loosing the scissors and thimble in the bottom of the basket really slows you down. 

I have several images (some with directions) for making sewing baskets from wire or board and covering them with fabric and lining them with pockets sewn in. However, I want to start with this woven basket. I am having a bit of trouble finding an image for this. Does anyone have any suggestions or images to share?

Thanks so much,

[Elizabeth]

Grab some muslin, and do a drape. Or measure, I suppose. If you must.

Seriously, though: you need a shape that mimics the bottom, and a strip that is the height of the basket plus some for seam allowance and some for upper hem. Attach pockets and pouches to the strip, sew it into a round, hem the upper edge, and sew it to the bottom shape, then slap it in the basket, and tack it in with a few stitches around the upper edge.

[Mother Dean]

Thanks Elizabeth for the directions. That's about the way I was figuring it would all go together. Have you seen one in period or would this fit into the "it's so common that it doesn't need explanation" category?

[Elizabeth]

I've not seen an original first-hand/touchable... but, the instructions in magazines and household manuals all seem to follow that same basic process, if that helps?

[Mother Dean]

That is very helpful, thanks. 

[vmescher]

I have a rattan basket that has a lining in it with pockets.  The basket has no handle and is about 8 inches in diameter.

You can also make a small open-ended strap for your thimble, attach a pincushion and emery bag (often made from soft kid scraps), and a slot for your small scissors. 

I don't have an original sewing basket in my article, "The Case of the Lost Thimble." there are a number of descriptions of sewing boxes and baskets, their contents listed, and some instructions on how to make some of the contents.

[Mother Dean]

Thanks Virginia. I have really enjoyed your articles.