Step 1 - To find a source of flax for weaving, check for bushes growing in your own or friends’ gardens. For permission to gather flax in public places in Christchurch contact the Christchurch City Council.
Step 2 - A prayer of thanks or karakia may be said before cutting.
Step 3 - The outer leaves are cut as close to the base of the leaf as possible. Only enough flax is cut to complete the weaving project.
Step 4 - Cut leaves in small strips.
Step 5 - Soften the strips by shell or knife.
Step 6 - Weave bags, baskets, flowers, stars, clothes, mats.
Step 7 - Waste flax is returned to the ground around the flax plant to rot.
The first weaving project a person completes is given away to your friend or family or anybody else. It's the spirit of Maori weaving.
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