Traditionally, baskets and sieves that have long been made in each region are crafted using plants that grow naturally nearby.

In Japan, materials such as bamboo, akebi vine, rush, and rice straw have been used, depending on what can be gathered in each area.

In Europe, the main materials are willow and rattan.

Both are materials rarely seen in Japanese basketry.
In Europe, the willow used is the clump-forming type that grows upright from the ground, much like rice plants.
Clump growth means that several stems rise together from the base of a single root.

This photo shows willow cultivated in Lithuania for basket making.

Willow has bark, but here the outer layer is removed
and the prepared “peeled willow” is used to weave the baskets we introduce.

This item comes in several pattern variations.

For example, some have uniformly colored strips, as shown in the photo above.

Others, like in this photo, have strips dyed brown.

Even when dyed strips are used, the patterns differ slightly depending on how they are placed.

One of the available patterns will be delivered.

We will choose the pattern to deliver at our discretion.
Please note that you cannot choose the type.
The examples shown in the photos are for reference only.

This mini basket is a miniature version of a harvest basket.

It is a basic style of woven basket often seen in Lithuania, but this one is particularly well finished.

The maker trained in basketry and works as a professional.
Now elderly, he continues weaving daily as part of his routine while in convalescence.

In the past he made large harvest basket sizes,
but after injuring his legs he has only been able to produce hand-sized baskets.
Still, he continues to weave small baskets through the winter, finding peace of mind in the work.

Over time, the color of the willow deepens and grows richer.
Please enjoy its changes through the years.

__About Lithuania__

Lithuania is the southernmost of the three Baltic states,
which lie in northeastern Europe along the eastern shore of the Baltic Sea.
It borders Latvia to the north, Belarus to the east, Poland to the south, and the Russian territory to the west.
In its history, there were times when it was united with Poland or Russia, and there are deep cultural ties.

Lithuania has many lakes, including Lake Vištytis, as well as extensive wetlands and woodlands.
The terrain is generally flat and level, with no mountains of significant elevation.

Perhaps because of this, even in cities, woodlands and nature are close at hand and part of daily life.
In autumn, people in Lithuania enjoy mushroom hunting and berry gathering.
They also pick apples and herbs from their gardens, which form part of their everyday diet.

Please note:
This item ships from Japan.
As the buyer, you are responsible for any import duties, customs fees, or local taxes that may be charged in your country.
These costs are not included in the item price or shipping cost.
Please check with your local customs authority if you are unsure about any potential charges before placing your order.