Handcrafted In Vietnam Baskets: What Are Baskets Made Of?

Basketry, or basket weaving, is often considered to be one of Vietnam’s oldest art forms. Handcrafted in Vietnam baskets possess an age-old charm with unique patterns from the exquisite weave. Notably, they are mainly produced from indigenous materials, among which Water hyacinth, Seagrass, Rattan, Bamboo, and Plastic Rattan are the most popular (according to Vietnam Customs Data from 2018 to 2022).

Water Hyacinth Handcrafted In Vietnam Baskets

Water hyacinth baskets registered the highest figures in export value compared to other materials, reaching more than 330 million USD in the last 4 years.

What Is Water Hyacinth?

Water hyacinth is an aquatic plant that grows in abundance in the waterways of Vietnam. This material has a distinct color tone that varies according to region.

As one of the fastest-growing plants on Earth, water hyacinth populations can double within five to fifteen days. It has been documented that each plant can produce thousands of seeds every year, which can sink into the soil and remain viable for up to 30 years.

The stem of a mature water hyacinth commonly reaches the length of 50-70cm. After sufficient sun exposure, dried stems will be spongy, bulbous, light, and possess a warm tone of golden brown. These properties make water hyacinth an ideal material for handcrafted in Vietnam baskets. What’s more, water hyacinth is eco-friendly, naturally produced, and definitely contains no chemicals.

Dried water hyacinth stems embrace an earthy tone and soft texture.

Production Technique

When water hyacinth is mature enough (3 months old), local people will harvest stems for production. After harvest, water hyacinth stems are dried under the sun for about 2-3 days before being woven into wicker baskets bulk.

As water hyacinth is soft, skilled artisans in craft villages often twin the stems around iron frames to create numerous weaves. The physical properties, cost of production, and lead time may vary according to each weaving style. Only afterward will the final products be cleaned and also coated with transparent PVA glue to make them studier, more anti-fungal, anti-mold and extend their lifespan.

Water hyacinth baskets are being dried under the sun after weaving.

Water Hyacinth Baskets Bulk

– What Are Water Hyacinth Baskets Used For?

Water hyacinth baskets are designed to be a versatile storage option, perfect for keeping all manner of household items, such as fruit, food, bread, accessories, and laundry. Their aesthetic appeal and pretty natural tones can fit into every corner in the home, from kitchen pantries, bedrooms to living rooms and bathrooms.

– Are Water Hyacinth Baskets Safe?

Water hyacinth stems are natural, non-toxic fibers that require no harmful treatments. Thus, the handcrafted in Vietnam baskets with water hyacinth are completely safe for users.

– Are Water Hyacinth Baskets Durable?

As long as the product is cared for properly and stored indoors during inclement weather, water hyacinth baskets can last up to 3 years of use. If they get wet, water hyacinth can absorb moisture; consequently, mold will develop and inflict structural, aesthetic damages to water hyacinth baskets.

Seagrass Handcrafted In Vietnam Baskets

Seagrass handcrafted baskets ranked second in export value from Vietnam, which amounted to more than 270 million USD in the last 4 years.

What Is Seagrass?

Thanks to the favorable climate conditions, natural seagrass species have thrived along the coast of Vietnam. Several provinces famous for high-quality seagrass are Thanh Hoa, Thai Binh, and Nam Dinh.

The material is incredibly durable, light, and relatively shiny once split and thoroughly sun-dried. Like water hyacinth, seagrass is sustainably sourced, non-toxic, and acquires no harmful chemicals during production. But in terms of physical characteristics, it has a smaller diameter and a greenish undertone that brings a more rustic vibe. Handcrafted in Vietnam baskets with seagrass also attain a sturdier texture as compared to water hyacinth.