Behind the Baskets
Process of Basket Weaving1. Veta vera grass is collected and each peice is split in half vertically. 2. Each piece is then twisted tight by rolling it against the weavers leg. This process gives it strength. 3. If the straw is to be dyed, it is divided into bunches and put into a boiling pot of water. Once the grasses are dyed, they let it dry for 24 hours in order for it to adhere. 4. The appropriate straw is selected for the base, sides, and handle. 5. Proper straw selection is important for quality baskets. 6. The weaving starts with the base and is worked to the rim. 
7. There are many different handles, but all are made with a durable wrapping technique. Most are then covered by leather. 8. The remaining straw is then trimmed off. 9. A medium basket usually takes about two days. |
These beautiful hand‐woven baskets are made in Ghana, Africa. The “Bolga Baskets” or "Market Baskets" are all natural baskets made from elephant grass; they are dyed with natural plant pigments and finished with goat hide handles. The elephant grass grows wild and is harvested, dried into straw, and then woven. The specialized weaving process makes these baskets strong and flexible; they can be reshaped or washed by getting them wet with water and forming them with your hands. The baskets are GREEN‐SUSTAINABLE and LONG‐LASTING. 
One of the women caring two baskets which we call "Pot Baskets" because of their shape.
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