On this page, we introduce two types of baskets made from Itaya maple.

The left photo shows Bread basket, and the right photo shows Cutlery case.
The names and shapes are different, but the construction is almost the same.

Since the basket can hold so much, it is tempting to fill it with too much.
When carrying a large amount of heavy metal cutlery,
for example, it is best to hold the entire basket with both hands,
so that the rims of the basket are not burdened and the basket lasts longer.

The texture of these baskets is somewhat reminiscent of Scandinavian ｂasket weaving.
In colder regions, baskets made by splitting logs like this one are more common.

The light, fresh colors will fit in any room and its atmosphere.

The gradual deepening of the color over time will be a part of the enjoyment.
Please choose the type you prefer.

<Itaya maple work from Akita Pref.>

For about 200 years,
farmers in the areas of Akita City, Daisen City, and Senboku City in central Akita Prefecture
have been making crafts using Itaya maple as a side job during the off-season.

In Senboku City, Akita Prefecture, there were nearly 40 households engaged in Itaya maple work at its peak.
In those days, most of the households produced “winnowoing basket” for use by farmers.

The material should be harvested before the fall snowfall,
and all but the necessary amount should be stored in the snow to preserve its unique white color.

The logs are first roughly split into eight pieces.
Machines are used in the process, but the majority of strips are done by hand.
The material is then taped into thin strips, down to a thickness of about 1 mm.

There are almost no more people who go into the mountains and cut down trees.
As a result, Itaya maple basket weaving has become very precious.