Traditional basketry is a testament to human ingenuity and the ability to utilize natural resources in creative and functional ways. Across the UK and Europe, different regions have developed unique basketry techniques and styles, each with its own historical context and cultural significance. This article delves into the history and distinctive features of various traditional baskets crafted by renowned artisans.

Devon Stave Basket

The Devon Stave is a traditional barrel-like basket made from wooden staves bound with metal hoops. Historically used for carrying heavy loads, such as potatoes and grain, these robust baskets are a staple of Devonshire craftsmanship. The design reflects the agricultural heritage of the region, emphasizing durability and practicality.

Withy Pot

Withy Pots are traditional wicker traps used for catching lobsters and crabs. Made from willow (withy), these pots are an essential part of the coastal fishing traditions in the UK. The construction involves intricate weaving techniques to create a durable and functional pot that can withstand the harsh marine environment.

Heather Kishie

Heather Kishies are traditional Scottish baskets made from heather and straw. These baskets were traditionally used in the Shetland Islands for carrying peat and other materials. The kishie is lightweight yet strong, showcasing the resourcefulness of using locally available materials.

Oyster Tendle

The Oyster Tendle is a type of basket used in the oyster fisheries of the Thames Estuary. Made from willow, these baskets are designed to hold oysters during their sorting and grading. The tendle’s construction reflects the maritime heritage of the region, emphasizing durability and functionality.

Oak Swill Basket

Oak Swill baskets are native to the Lake District. Swill baskets are made from oak splints, which are split and soaked to make them pliable. Traditionally used for farming and mining, these baskets are known for their strength and longevity.

Square Work Basket

Square Work baskets are characterized by their geometric shapes and precise weaving techniques. These baskets are often used for storage and transport, reflecting a blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal. The work highlights the versatility of traditional basketry in contemporary contexts.

Cyntell Basket

Cyntells are traditional Welsh baskets made from willow or hazel. These round, sturdy baskets are used for agricultural purposes, such as carrying hay and produce. The cyntell is a symbol of Welsh rural life, embodying the region’s deep connection to farming and the land.

Tregaron Peat Basket

Tregaron Peat Baskets are traditionally used in Wales for carrying peat from the bogs. Made from willow, these baskets are designed to be durable and easy to carry, reflecting the practical needs of rural Welsh communities.

Llangwm Cawell

The Llangwm Cawell is a traditional Welsh basket used for carrying fish. Made from willow, the cawell is an essential part of the fishing heritage of Llangwm, reflecting the region’s reliance on maritime resources.

Welsh Tea Things

Welsh Tea Things are a collection of baskets used for serving tea. These intricately woven baskets are a blend of functionality and decorative art, reflecting the cultural significance of tea in Welsh society.

Marram Grass Basket

Marram Grass Baskets are made from the tough, flexible grass found on coastal dunes. These baskets are lightweight and durable, reflecting the resourcefulness of using local materials in coastal communities.

Salmon Putcher

Salmon Putchers are traditional fish traps used in the Severn Estuary. Made from willow, these conical traps are designed to catch salmon during their migration. The putcher is a testament to the region’s fishing heritage, emphasizing sustainable fishing practices.

Yarmouth Herring Swill

Yarmouth Herring Swills are traditional baskets used for carrying herring from the boats to the markets. Made from willow, these baskets are designed to be strong and lightweight, reflecting the maritime heritage of Great Yarmouth.

Irish Sciathog

The Irish Sciathog is a traditional basket used in Ireland for carrying turf and other materials. Made from willow, the sciathog is a symbol of rural Irish life, reflecting the country’s agricultural heritage.

Rush Seating

Rush Seating is a technique used to create durable and comfortable chair seats. Using bulrushes, intricate patterns are woven that not only provide functionality but also enhance the aesthetic appeal of the furniture.

Fitched Oval Basket

Fitched Oval baskets are characterized by their oval shape and tightly woven patterns. These baskets are used for a variety of purposes, from storage to decoration, reflecting the versatility and beauty of traditional basketry.

Eel Trap

Eel Traps are traditional fishing baskets used to catch eels in rivers and estuaries. Made from willow, these traps are designed to be both effective and sustainable, reflecting the importance of fishing in rural communities.

Skeined Basket

Skeined Baskets are made from finely split willow or hazel. These baskets are known for their delicate, intricate patterns and are often used for decorative purposes. The skeined technique showcases the high level of skill and precision involved in traditional basketry.

Hazel Whisket

Hazel Whiskets are traditional baskets made from hazel rods. Used for carrying farm produce, these sturdy baskets reflect the agricultural heritage of rural England.

Herring Cran

Herring Crans are traditional barrels used to measure and transport herring in Scotland. Made from wood and bound with metal hoops, these crans are essential to the fishing industry, reflecting Scotland’s deep connection to the sea.

Sussex Trug

Sussex Trugs are traditional shallow baskets made from willow and sweet chestnut. These trugs are lightweight and durable, ideal for gardening and carrying produce. The Sussex Trug is a symbol of craftsmanship and practicality, embodying the rural heritage of Sussex.

Orkney Chair

The Orkney Chair is a unique piece of furniture made from driftwood and straw. These chairs are a hallmark of Orkney’s craft heritage, reflecting the resourcefulness and ingenuity of using available materials.

Fair Isle Chair

Fair Isle Chairs are traditional chairs from the Fair Isle, known for their distinctive woven straw backs. These chairs are a blend of functionality and artistry, showcasing the unique craft traditions of the Shetland Islands.

Straw Coiling

Straw Coiling is a technique used to create baskets and decorative items from straw. This method involves coiling and stitching straw into intricate patterns, reflecting the versatility and beauty of natural materials.

Hazel Cockle Basket

Hazel Cockle Baskets are used for gathering cockles from the beach. Made from hazel rods, these baskets are designed to be durable and easy to carry, reflecting the coastal heritage of Wales.

Guernsey Pannier

Guernsey Panniers are traditional baskets used in the Channel Islands for carrying goods. Made from willow, these panniers are a symbol of the island’s agricultural and maritime heritage.

Corn Dollies

Corn Dollies are decorative items made from woven straw. Traditionally used as harvest symbols, corn dollies reflect the agricultural heritage and folklore of rural England.

Straw Plait Basket

Straw Plait Baskets are made from woven straw plaits. These baskets are known for their intricate patterns and delicate craftsmanship, reflecting the rich tradition of straw work in England.

Skib Basket

Skibs are traditional Irish baskets used for carrying turf and other materials. Made from willow, the skib is a symbol of rural Irish life and agricultural heritage.

Southport Boat Basket

Southport Boats are traditional baskets from Southport, England. These baskets are used for carrying goods and are characterized by their unique boat-like shape and sturdy construction.

Rush Peat Basket

Rush Peat Baskets are used for carrying peat in rural England. Made from rushes, these baskets are lightweight and durable, reflecting the resourcefulness of using local materials.

Underfoot Basket

Underfoot Baskets are designed to be placed underfoot in traditional English homes. Made from willow or hazel, these baskets are functional and decorative, reflecting the versatility of traditional basketry.

Caithness Hayve

The Caithness Hayve is a traditional Scottish basket used for carrying hay. Made from willow, these baskets are designed to be strong and durable, reflecting the agricultural heritage of the region.

Devon Maund

The Devon Maund is a traditional basket from Devon used for various agricultural purposes. Made from woven willow, this basket is known for its sturdiness and capacity, essential for carrying produce and materials in rural settings.

Yorkshire Farmers Wife’s Basket

The Yorkshire Farmers Wife’s Basket is a traditional basket used for domestic and agricultural purposes. Made from willow or hazel, this basket is a reflection of the rural lifestyle in Yorkshire, emphasizing practicality and durability.

Mersea Island Tendle

The Mersea Island Tendle is a type of basket used in the oyster fisheries of Mersea Island. Made from willow, these baskets are designed to hold oysters during their sorting and grading, reflecting the island's rich maritime heritage.

Cutlery Basket

The Cutlery Basket is a small, intricately woven basket used for storing and carrying cutlery. Made from fine willow or hazel, this basket combines functionality with decorative appeal, often seen in traditional English households.

Wet Linen Basket

The Wet Linen Basket is a traditional basket used for carrying wet clothes. Made from sturdy materials such as willow or rush, this basket is designed to withstand moisture and heavy loads, reflecting the domestic practices of rural communities.

Flailer's Measure

The Flailer's Measure is a traditional basket used in agricultural settings to measure and carry grain. Made from woven willow, this basket is both functional and durable, essential for farm work.

Cornish Croust Box

The Cornish Croust Box is a traditional basket used in Cornwall for carrying lunch to the fields. Made from willow or hazel, this basket is compact and sturdy, reflecting the agricultural practices of the region.