These grass-woven baskets have been handmade by a group of women in a rural community bordering Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in southwest Uganda. Natural & sustainable dyes All of the colours that you see in these baskets are made naturally using traditional knowledge of herbs. Two different types of grass are used, one to give structure & one for the detail. Approximate size Mini: 18cm high (including lid) , 10cm diameter at base Small: 20cm high (including lid) , 12cm diameter at base Medium: 25cm high (including lid) , 18cm diameter at base Large: 32cm high (including lid) , 20cm diameter at base Please note that these are handmade & therefore sizes may vary slightly The result is these amazing & practical baskets & pots that would add style equally to a dressing table, bookshelf or side table. Beautiful things should belong to beautiful souls. Muriel Barbery These ethnic African baskets certainly are beautiful, ethical & perfect for those who appreciate art. So, make sure to buy one (or more!) if you would like something special in your home or a charming gift for your loved ones. - Fair trade benefits to the artisans Most of the baskets that we have are woven by a lady called Topista. She is 74 years young & is a mother & a grandmother. Each basket typically takes her 4 days to complete between other household tasks (the average Ugandan woman spends 9 hours a day on household tasks). Last year the extra income she generated helped cover the family medical bills & even employ extra help so that she could focus more of her time on weaving! - How your purchase can make a difference Uganda is one of the poorest nations in the world. in 2012, 37.8 percent of the population lived on less than $1.25 a day. Despite making enormous progress in recent years, poverty remains deep-rooted in the country’s rural areas, which are home to 84 percent of Ugandans. Bwindi Handmade Crafts is committed to promoting & empowering the groups that they work with so that they have a secure & sustainable source of income. By buying one of these baskets you are playing an important part in ensuring that this happens. - How these baskets are made These craft items have been made by a small group of Batwa women who live on the borders of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in South West Uganda. The Batwa people traditionally lived off the forest’s resources until it was made a conservation area in the early 90’s & they were forced to leave the forest & survive outside. These women use their knowledge of herbs to make the natural dyes for the grasses & the traditional weaving skills passed down from mother to daughter for generations. The baskets are made from two types of grass - a thicker stronger grass for the structure & the thinner more pliable one for weaving it together & creating the beautiful patterns that you see. - Care Our baskets are sturdy, strong, & flexible, made to withstand constant use. If properly cared for, your basket will live a long life.
