Basket Making
The History
Basketwork is one of the oldest crafts, possibly even pre-dating pottery, and the materials and methods used to produce baskets have varied little through the ages. Archaeology demonstrates that the weaving of baskets has been carried on for thousands of years.
Fragments of basketwork have been found in Utah, USA, dating to 9,000 years old. The earliest examples of baskets in Britain, wickerwork specimens dating from the second century BC, were excavated from the lake village at Glastonbury.
Traditionally, the location of basket makers' workshops depended on local demand for their products, and favorable conditions for growing the raw materials. They were spread through many counties of Britain, with important center in Lancashire, Somerset and the Trent Valley (Nottinghamshire/ Leicestershire).
Although a labour-intensive craft, it requires only a few basic tools, and the techniques are very versatile, and can be adapted to a variety of materials.
Basketwork produces strong, durable and long-lasting containers, which are easily repaired and pleasing to look at. In the past they were used where plastic or cardboard would be used today.
