A basket is usually a simple container designed with straight, strong fibers, and can also be constructed out of a wide variety of materials, such as wood, plastic, runners, and wicker. Most baskets are typically made of natural plant materials. However, some baskets can also be made of synthetic materials like plastic, which is more common in wicker baskets. Some baskets, however, are made of metal tubing or polyethylene mesh.
The basic basket consists of a large number of small holes or “spokes,” each connected to the next. Basket makers may make their baskets out of all sorts of material, but the most popular type in the United States today are twined, wide-mouthed, beaded, or basket-style baskets. The twined variety is made by twisting a series of ropes together and holding them up in the air. Twined fibers are usually dyed to make them look more attractive, although they do not have to be.
In addition to being attractive, twined baskets can help to conserve energy. Because they’re so tightly wound, they’re much less likely to lose their shape. Twined baskets may be kept clean by simply hanging them in a washing machine, without any effort. Basket-making has even been used as an environmentally-friendly alternative for cleaning products.
Basketry can come in a wide array of types. There are twined baskets, which are just what they sound like: twined fibers pulled tightly into a single long fiber. Bamboo baskets, on the other hand, are similar to a basket only they’re made of bamboo fibers. Other types of basketry include wire basketry, wicker basketry, crocheted basketry, gourmet baskets and more. Baskets come in many shapes, colors and materials. There are baskets to fit any lifestyle and budget.
Basketry itself comes in many varieties. Some baskets may be formed from single-celled algae called dulse, while others may be formed from algae that contains hydrangea. There are also varieties made from animal hooves, antlers, hair, feathers and more. However, the most widely used types of basket material are man-made, usually consisting of man-made fibers, such as acrylic, polyester and sisal.
If you’re looking for a gift idea for a friend, family member or loved one, consider baskets made by basket makers. By purchasing a basket online, you’ll be able to have that basket specially made to your own specifications and delivered to a special recipient. Basket-making is fun, interesting and versatile. Once you try it, you’ll find that there’s no substitute for homemade baskets.