Weaving and Paper Plaiting: Spear's Kindergarten Series

One of the most exciting boxes of kindergarten material we've seen, thanks to excellent condition and uncommon contents. The paper weaving material is beautiful and fresh, and the plaiting materials exemplify the interconnectedness of Froebel’s gifts & occupations. Using elements of weaving (15), slats (16), and interlacing (17), the child sees how the linear gifts transform as their 3-D structures emerge.

The plaiting materials include a diagram sheet with projects labeled A-K, 3 bands of dowels, 2 bands of paper strips, and diecut heavy cardstock pieces labeled for each of the projects. Paper weaving materials include 17 vertical and 9 horizontal unused glossy mats with slats cut in two widths, a stack of cut strips for weaving, 9 color weaving patterns on 6 leaves, and a wooden “needle.” With bright colors and a beautiful glazed finish, an excellent example still in a condition akin to how a child would have found it over a century ago.

Paper-covered box with color lithograph label, 8.75 x 11.5 x 1 inches. Divided into two compartments, with materials for paper weaving on one side and plaiting on the other. “Made at the Spear Works Bavaria,” ca. 1911, based on the patent (Games Research Database). Very Good+ with wear at the corners of the lid; right edge of the base starting to split. Relative completeness of paper weaving materials is unknown, but certainly partially used. Five of the large mats have closed tears and creasing (without loss). The plaiting materials are complete based on the materials called for on the directions.