We have reached the end of our lovely project to discover more about the basket known as the Mersea Oyster Tendle. Over the past months we have worked with a wonderful group of fishermen, historians and of course basket makers to unpick the secrets of the process of making the Tendle. With the grant awarded by The Ratcliffe Trust we have been able to hold a series of meetings at the Mersea Island Museum over the winter.

What we have learned especially from the local boat builders and fishermen about
    Tendle components and construction.
    Materials required; species, dimensions, when and where to harvest them.
    What physical characteristics of the materials were key, I.e. flexibility and strength.
    How to twist and make the grommets.
    The use of formers to create the correct shape to the handle and rims.
    It was harder than we thought it was going to be!
    The amazing skill of past tendle makers.
    Steaming!