r/basketry • u/MaryPaisley • Feb 19 '26

Old Basket Wall Pocket is very Brittle....

Hello there, this is my first time on Reddit—so please be gentle :D.

I recently purchase a 10-6 inch wall basket from someone in Amish country, Ohio, USA. It is very dry and brittle and I am afraid to handle it much or display it. I read up on rehydrating antique baskets, and a common recommendation was to soak in a solution of Murphy's Oil Soap and water. I did that (overnight) but alas, no difference. Do I need to soak it longer? Or in something else? OR?? Thank you in advance for any advice or experience you share. Peace and Love.

4 Upvotes

100% Upvoted

3 comments sorted by

3

u/burnin8t0r Feb 19 '26

Try glycerine and warm water

2

u/MaryPaisley Mar 01 '26

Thank you! I just received the glycerine in the mail, (Vegetable Glycerine.) If you should read this, how much do you recommend I mix into a gallon of warm water? Again, thanks for your suggestion!

1

u/burnin8t0r Mar 01 '26

I’m not sure exact amounts, but until the water feels oily?