Many contemporary flax weavers are using their knowledge of traditional flax weaving techniques to weave innovative and creative pieces, and in this book I give some ideas for those wanting to extend their weaving into this contemporary realm. Some projects have full instructions, some have guidelines for the more experienced weavers who have a good grounding in the basics, and the first two projects, using netted flax to create unique vessels, are for everyone, whatever their skill level. 
First in the book are Skeleton Vessels — light and ephemeral — created by the careful manipulation of netted flax. Although netted flax is fragile to work with, it is worth the care required as the results are exquisite, as shown in this little basket displaying an orchid. Netted flax is also used in the second project to create elegant Foliage Vases, a beautiful way to develop and enhance a floral display.
A plan, basic instructions and dimensions for weaving a large waka huia / treasure box detail the processes I went through when weaving a container to hold the ashes urn for a family member. It was a huge honour to be asked to weave this and pleasing to achieve the result I had envisaged, using green and purple variegated colourings for the weaving and the top bouquet. This may be a precious project others would like to do for their whanau.
Of a more practical nature, this woven ball can be used in the game Ki-ō-rahi. At 15 cm in diameter, and with a strong, wrapped-flax inner, it’s sturdy and solid for a robust game. A good team project.
Another practical item, woven sunvisor style hats have become very popular. I’ve included instructions for making a version of this that can be shaped into different styles. Some ideas for making your own hat block are included as well as ideas for hatbands. Using coloured or natural flax, these hats are fun to make and always find a head to sit on!
For those wanting to weave a circular piece of wall art, there’s instructions for a simple Sunburst wall hanging — an introduction to one way of weaving in a circular style. Also in the book are instructions for baskets made with three corners instead of the 
usual two or four, that can be shaped in interesting ways, bowls and pots, and other ideas for wall art. A glossary of Māori weaving words is included. More information about the book is available on my blog.
Creative Flax Weaving, ISBN 978-0-473-74991-0, is a book of 84 pages bound between covers in a plastic-comb spine, which allows it to open out flat for easy use when following the instructions. It is written by me, and printed and published by Browncraft Ltd. It is available direct to the public through my on-line shop.
© Ali Brown 2025