Star Petal Coffee Basket ~ Cultivate Collection

Discover the charm of Western Uganda with our Star Petal Coffee Basket, a unique piece from the Fall 2024 Cultivate Collection. Traditionally used as decorative vessels for coffee beans, these sweet, pointy-topped baskets are a symbol of hospitality. When guests arrive, hosts offer them a coffee bean or two to chew on, providing a refreshing boost after a long journey.

Handcrafted by skilled women artisans from the Batoro tribe, these baskets are a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the rural mountains of Western Uganda. The artisans are part of a cooperative that empowers single mothers, widows, and marginalized women, offering them training and a source of additional income. Each basket is made from all-natural, sustainably sourced raffia and banana fibers, ensuring an eco-friendly product.

The vibrant colors of the baskets are achieved through a unique mix of natural and AZO-free dyes. These dyes are crafted from plant materials grown in the artisans' villages, showcasing their expertise in creating beautiful, bold designs. The hand-dyed raffia is meticulously twisted and wrapped around coils of banana fibers, resulting in intricate patterns and sturdy structures.

Each basket is a labor of love, taking days to weeks to complete as artisans balance weaving with other household duties. No two baskets are identical, with slight variations in size and color, making each piece truly special and unique. Handmade in Uganda, these baskets measure approximately 5.5" x 6", offering a perfect blend of tradition and artistry for your home.