Concept in Definition ABC

The artisans who make baskets and other similar pieces are dedicated to basket weaving. For its weaving process, fibers of vegetable origin are used that depend on the diversity botanical species of each territory. This activity has been defined on occasions from an idea: nature transformed into art.

The profession of basketmaker or basketmaker

In the process of elaboration the basket maker has to previously obtain the raw material needed, usually wicker, rush, reed, hay or cereal straw. In the next phase, the vegetable strips are created and then soaked in water so that they are softer when handling them when they are dry. With the same strips, an initial structure or base is assembled and then weaving begins, tying the different pieces in an interlocking way. It is an artisan process that is normally carried out manually.

There are several techniques, such as single weave, double weave or the three-rod staff. It should be noted that some baskets have built-in handles so that they can be grasped with the hands.

Basketry pieces are usually created in the middle rural and they are usually sold in tourist areas. Some indigenous peoples maintain this tradition as an essential part of their culture. While it is a job traditional on the way to extinction, there are people all over the world who want to rescue this type of trades so that they do not disappear.

As for their applications, they are very diverse: design indoor, architecture, in gardening, for kitchen elements, etc.

From a historical perspective

The art of basketry is ancient and it is considered that in most cultures it predated pottery. As these are pieces that easily deteriorate with humidity, it is difficult to determine when this activity began, since in archaeological remains there are usually no basketry pieces. However, some tests carried out have determined that it began approximately 10,000 years ago, when the human being abandoned nomadism and became sedentary.

Basket weaving is present in all latitudes and some indigenous peoples still continue with this tradition

In this sense, the Yanomami of Venezuela and Brazil make pieces with palm leaves to use in their daily lives or to sell them to tourists.

Nowadays, basket weaving has become a recreational activity, especially among those who are fond of crafts. Weaving techniques have a "therapeutic" component, since through them it is possible to relax and escape.

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