African Baskets

Description

These beautiful handwoven African baskets are made by artisans in Ghana. Artisans are paid fair market prices for their products to ensure they earn a living wage for their talents and time. This has had a positive impact not just on the craftspeople, but on the entire community, allowing it to sustain its traditions while creating new sources of economic growth. In addition many initiatives in the area are supported where our weaving partners live including sanitation and education programs.

Available in large selection of sizes and colours these African baskets are not only functional but beautiful too and made to last a lifetime. From table top baskets to laundry baskets there is a multitude of uses for these unique hand made African Baskets. Available in both neutral and traditional colours you are sure to find one that suits your style and decor.

Selection changes regularly. It is recommend you visit the store to see the current selection. Alternately you can contact the store and a staff member will be happy to help show you the current selection available.

Prices range from $45 – $175 and reflect the skilled labour required to create a quality product that will last.

Where Are The Baskets Made? 

The “Bolga” baskets are distinct to the area of Bolgatanga Ghana which is in the far north of the country.  Initially it was developed bring an income to the region during the farming off season.  These baskets have a distinct style, shape, and quality. Once you are familiar with a true Bolga basket, you can easily spot the difference in quality and construction between these and baskets from other parts of the world.  

What Are They Made From?

The baskets are made of elephant grass, so-called because it grows so tall and strong in the region where these baskets are made.  In fact, it was so abundant in the region of Bolgatanga that for many many years that it was considered a nuisance.  Basket weaving evolved to make use of an overly abundant resource.

Basket making is an important traditional craft in the region and the weavers are predominantly, but not exclusively, women.  The leather handles are sewn on by men who specialize in “leathering”. These handles are goat leather.  In Ghana, many people own goats as a food staple so goat leather is abundant in the region. Goats are an integral part of the culture in Ghana. They are raised in a free range environment and no part of a dead animal is wasted.