Basket Weaving Materials and Techniques
Historically, most Native American baskets have been made with willow, twigs, and native grasses, while raffia and rattan have been substituted for these materials. Indigenous materials such as timbers, canes, grasses, palms, and rattan are commonly used in basket making along with raw materials like rattan, abaca, nito, tikog, buri, and bamboo.
Importance of Basketry
Basketry is an ancient craft with origins in Africa, used for various purposes including carrying goods, storing food, and creating functional items. The craft has evolved globally, with common materials like cedar bark, spruce root, and cattail leaves used for weaving. Basketry has cultural significance and utilizes techniques like coiling, plaiting, twining, and wicker.
Top Natural Materials for Basket Weaving
Key natural materials for basket weaving include bamboo, reeds, vines, and honeysuckle plants. Grass, bamboo, and rattan are commonly used in home furnishings, while rattan is known for its durability. Native American baskets feature materials like sweetgrass, pine needles, and cedar bark, each adding unique qualities to the designs.