This basket is woven from water hyacinth, an aquatic plant that grows naturally in slow-moving rivers and ponds.

This basket is characterized by its tightly woven structure and ring-shaped handles on both sides.
It is available in three sizes.

Even among water hyacinth products, the makers (production regions) vary depending on the type of item being made—such as baskets, basket bags, small containers, and pot mats—and the weaving technique used.

Many of the artisans are women in their 40s to 70s. Most practice basketry as part of village or community groups, or within family units.

Many work full-time as basket makers, while others practice basketry alongside farming. Those who combine basket making with farming may pause production during harvest seasons to focus on farm work.

As with Krajood basketry, there are not many weavers among the younger generation.
Even so, the appeal of natural material products such as these is now being recognized again in Thailand,
and we were told that more young people are beginning to choose baskets.

Since water hyacinth is particularly sensitive to humidity,
a matte varnish has been applied to the entire basket as a finishing touch.
This coating helps prevent the material from absorbing moisture.

When storing vegetables, fruit, clothing, or other items that are eaten or come into contact with the skin,
we recommend placing a sheet of paper or fabric inside the basket.

When using the basket, we also recommend keeping it indoors in a well-ventilated place where humidity does not build up.
Rather than leaving it on the floor, it is better to place it on a higher shelf.
If you live in a two-story home, we recommend keeping it on the second floor rather than the first.

Please watch the short video to see this basket in use and get a sense of its character.
[The video includes music.]

This water hyacinth basket has a charming plump shape and rounded ring handles.
You may find yourself tossing all kinds of things inside and leaving it out in the room.

Please choose whichever size you prefer.

About Water Hyacinth Craftwork in Thailand

Water hyacinth is an aquatic plant
that floats and grows on the surfaces of lakes, marshes, ponds, and gently flowing rivers.

This plant is commonly found throughout Southeast Asia, including Thailand,
and basketry using water hyacinth can be seen in many regions.

In Thailand, water hyacinth can be harvested throughout the year,
but we are told that healthier plants can be harvested outside the dry season, which runs from January to April.
The color of the plants (and the resulting color of the baskets) also varies depending on the region where they are harvested.

Various methods are used in processing: splitting the thick stems into different widths for weaving,
twisting the stems into rope-like strands before weaving, peeling the stems thinly and wrapping them,
or compressing and shaping them. Water hyacinth is a material that is relatively easy to work with.
Baskets and basket bags are woven using wooden molds, while pot mats and slippers are woven using only the maker’s sense of touch.

The pieces introduced here are crafted in the fertile central plains of Thailand,
along the Chao Phraya River, where rice-growing regions spread across Suphanburi, Ang Thong, and Chainat provinces.

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.