Woven Wall Baskets

African-inspired home decor is an excellent way to bring bold colors, textures, and cultural richness into your space. One popular and stunning way to achieve this is by creating woven wall baskets. Not only do they serve as beautiful wall art, but they are also functional and can be used for storage or organization. With a little creativity and the right materials, you can make your own woven baskets that reflect the vibrant, traditional designs of African artistry. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create your own woven wall baskets for a unique and stylish home decor accent.

Materials You’ll Need:

• Natural fibers: Common materials for basket weaving include sisal, jute, raffia, or seagrass. These fibers are durable and have an earthy texture, perfect for creating that authentic African-inspired look.
  
  
• Basketry frame (optional): You can either use a pre-made frame, such as a plastic or metal ring, or make your own using wire or thin bamboo.
  
  
• Hot glue gun and glue sticks: For securing the fibers to the frame and attaching different layers.
  
  
• Scissors: To trim the fibers as needed during the weaving process.
  
  
• Acrylic paints: To add color and pattern to the baskets, creating the traditional African geometric designs.
  
  
• Needle and thread (optional): For extra security in tying off certain parts of the basket.
  
  
• A small bowl of water (optional): To help soften your fibers for easier manipulation.
  
  

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Woven Wall Baskets

Step 1: Prepare Your Materials

Before you begin weaving, it's essential to prep your materials:

• If you’re using dry natural fibers like raffia or jute, soak them in water for about 10 minutes to make them more flexible and easier to work with.
• Choose a basket frame: You can either buy a pre-made round frame or create one yourself by wrapping wire or flexible bamboo into a circular shape. For beginners, starting with a simple, sturdy frame is recommended.

Step 2: Begin with the Base Layer

1. Start at the center: Take one end of your fiber (sisal or raffia works best for this step) and secure it tightly to the center of your frame using a hot glue gun. Hold it in place for a few seconds to ensure it sticks.
   
   
2. Weave the fibers: Begin wrapping the fibers around the frame. You can use a continuous, spiraling motion or weave back and forth around the ring, layering the fibers as you go. Keep your weave tight and even to maintain a consistent shape and structure.
   
   
3. Continue to the edges: As you reach the outer edge of the frame, you’ll want to make sure the weave stays uniform and even. Add more lengths of fiber as needed, gluing the end of one piece to the next to continue the weaving process.
   
   

Step 3: Add Layers and Color

1. Change the design: As you complete the base layer, you can start adding additional layers. These layers will allow you to build texture, depth, and complexity in your basket. You can alternate between different fiber colors or use a combination of materials (e.g., raffia and jute).
   
   
2. Create patterns: African-inspired designs often incorporate geometric patterns, bold color contrasts, and symmetrical shapes. You can introduce color to your woven wall baskets by using acrylic paints. After weaving your initial layers, use painter’s tape to section off areas on the basket and then paint triangles, zigzags, or diamond patterns with vibrant acrylic colors. Allow the paint to dry before moving on.
   
   
3. Incorporate textures: You can also add texture to the surface of your woven baskets by weaving in different thicknesses of fibers or even adding natural elements like beads or feathers for additional decoration.
   
   

Step 4: Secure the Top and Finish the Edges

1. Secure the top edge: Once your basket has reached the desired size, it’s time to secure the top edge. Fold the fibers around the top and glue them down to finish the basket. This step will help give your woven basket a clean, finished look.
   
   
2. Trim any loose ends: Carefully trim any excess fibers at the edges and tuck them in with a small dab of glue to secure them in place. You don’t want any loose ends sticking out.
   
   
3. Create a hanging loop (optional): If you want to hang your basket on the wall, you can attach a small loop to the back of the basket. Use a piece of strong jute or twine, glue it securely to the back of the basket, and allow it to dry before hanging.
   
   

Step 5: Display Your Beautiful Creation

Now that you’ve completed your woven wall basket, it's time to hang it up and admire your work! You can display your basket on the wall as a statement piece or in clusters with other woven baskets of varying sizes to create an eclectic, layered wall display.

These woven baskets can also serve as functional decor in your home. They can hold small items like keys, jewelry, or plants, or simply be admired as a piece of art.

Design Ideas for Your Woven Wall Baskets

• Color Palette: Stick to traditional colors like red, yellow, green, and black for a bold African-inspired look. Alternatively, you can opt for neutral tones like beige, brown, and cream for a more subtle, rustic vibe.
  
  
• Size Variations: Don’t limit yourself to just one size. Consider making several baskets in varying sizes for a more dynamic display on the wall.
  
  
• Pattern Play: Experiment with different African patterns like chevrons, diamonds, and zigzags to add interest and vibrancy to your woven baskets. Use painter’s tape to create straight lines and crisp designs.
  
  
• Natural Accents: Add natural elements such as beads, shells, or even dried flowers for a more textured, organic feel. These elements can be woven directly into the basket or glued on for decoration.
  
  

Creating your own woven wall baskets is an easy and enjoyable way to add a touch of African-inspired decor to your home. Whether you’re decorating your living room, hallway, or bedroom, these baskets are a versatile and beautiful addition to any space. With just a few materials, some creativity, and a little patience, you can craft your own stunning wall art that captures the essence of African culture and design. So, gather your supplies, follow this step-by-step guide, and start weaving your own unique pieces today!

About the Authors

Ire Ayatunji