Handwoven Zulu Palm Baskets

Every basket is made by hand, using indigenous raw materials. It can take up to one month to produce a medium-sized basket that will be unique in size, shape, pattern, weave and color. All materials used are natural; no artificial materials are allowed. The baskets are tightly-woven and of excellent quality.

Each basket is unique...no two are exactly alike. A certificate of authenticity, with the name of the weaver accompanies each basket. These baskets are purchased in accordance with the Fair Trade Federation guidelines, so artisans are fairly compensated for their work.

These are Ukhamba baskets, which are rigid, bulb-shaped containers. The tightness of the coil/weave, and the ilala palm used for weaving render them watertight. They are generally used to serve a sorghum beer, often at special events and ceremonies. The basket is readied for liquids by rubbing wet cornmeal inside. When liquids are introduced, the pores swell, and the outside sweats, which keeps the liquids cool by means of evaporation.

Quality of weave, design, and size determine the price of each basket. You will receive the exact basket shown.