What Are Woven Baskets Made Of?

Woven baskets are commonly made from willow, rattan, seagrass, water hyacinth, bamboo or paper rope. Cotton cord and synthetic strands are also used. A basket can have a woven body, a metal frame and a fabric liner, so ask what each part is made of before you put “wicker” on a product listing.

In retail, wicker describes a family of woven goods. The word has also been used historically for willow rods. On a wholesale quote, ask for the material by name. The Canadian Conservation Institute’s basketry guide shows how the material woven across the surface can differ from the material that gives the basket its shape.

Willow and rattan for baskets that hold their shape

Willow is woven from young rods, used whole or split. Start with willow for a picnic hamper, a handled gift basket or a lidded basket with a traditional rod weave. On the sample, close the lid and lift the basket with the intended contents inside. Look at where the handle joins the body. See the willow basket wholesale guide for what to ask suppliers to quote.

Rattan comes from climbing palms. Whole rattan can form a frame, while narrower split material can be woven into the sides. Consider it for a framed storage basket or a tray with a firm rim. Ask which parts are rattan and check that the rim and base stay square when you put the sample on a shelf.

Seagrass and water hyacinth for visible texture

Seagrass can be braided or woven into baskets with a finer texture. It suits open shelf storage for light items. A natural finish can vary in shade, so approve a few representative samples or swatches in daylight if the baskets will be displayed side by side.

Water hyacinth is woven from dried stalks and can give a basket a broader, more pronounced weave. Try it for a decorative bin or a large storage basket. If you need upright sides, check what supports the weave and whether the basket keeps its shape when filled. Both materials are best kept dry in everyday use. See the woven basket care guide for care-label wording.

Bamboo and paper rope for shelf storage

Bamboo can be split into strips for weaving. It is a useful option for shallow trays and shelf baskets. Run a cloth along the rim of the sample to see if it catches on the ends of the strips. Do the same along the inside if the basket will hold folded clothes.

Paper rope is twisted paper cord. A frame can give a paper-rope basket straight sides for cubbies or drawers. Check the outside dimensions at the widest point, including any handles, and confirm the care instructions. Paper rope suits dry storage.

What to specify when ordering woven baskets

1. Name the parts. Ask the supplier to list the weave, frame, base, handles and liner separately. Include the finish or coating if there is one.
2. Describe the job. Give the shelf opening or the actual contents and expected load. Test the approved sample with those contents, including lifting it if it has handles.
3. Agree on the appearance. Approve the weave, the colour range and the rim finish against a physical sample. Keep the signed-off sample for comparison during inspection.

For a new range, browse Lumeidao’s storage baskets and send the product references, sizes and intended use with your quote request.