Frequently Asked Questions

Do you take custom orders?

Yes! I do recommend completing the request form at least one month before you would like your basket to be delivered. This gives me enough time to create you’re unique piece and ship it to you. It typically takes me one to two weeks to fulfill your order.

I see a photography section on your website. Do you take the photographs too?

Yes! My other greatest passion is photography. Most of my photographs are local to New England, although I do have a few from the southern United States. I have done personalized sessions and if this is something you’re looking for, I highly encourage you to reach out!

Where do you get the materials and what is it exactly?

The supplier I use for my basket weaving materials ships them to the United States from China-but it’s been this way since the mid 1800s.. The materials are created from a vine called Rattan that grows naturally and sustainably in that region of the world. It was originally used to hold together crates on shipping vessels when trading with China began to become more popular for the newly formed United States. One day, a gentleman working at a shipping port decided to bring home some of the rattan material to repair a chair and the rest is history. Not long after rattan began to replace other materials that were previously being used such as ash splints and pine needles.

How do you dye the colors you use?

I use a combination of fabric and basket specific dyes to achieve the color variations you see in my galleries and shop. Occasionally, I will use dyes I’ve made from berries and other natural sources. In those instances, it will be specified in the product description.

How do I store my basket?

If you’ve purchased a basket for seasonal use or plan to ship it to a new home, please avoid plastic and other sealed containers. Baskets are porous and thrive in the open air. Unfortunately, plastic bags or containers could encourage mold growth. For seasonal storage, I recommend placing your basket on a shelf or even in a closet without anything covering it. Try to avoid damp basements or garages. If you plan to ship your basket, it is okay to pack it into a cardboard box. Generally I will use newspaper or other paper products to pack the boxes. If you choose to use bubble wrap, try to avoid allowing the bubble wrap to touch the basket or wrap fully around it.

How much weight can the handles hold?

The safest option is to always provide your basket with extra support by placing a hand under it’s base. However, certain handles are much stronger than others.

As a general rule, driftwood handles should never be relied on to support weight because of their fragility. These handles are meant add beauty, not strength to your piece.

Wooden handles are durable and strong. However, there are two different kinds that serve very different purposes. A wooden handle that passes under the base of the basket in the strongest type of wooden handle you will see incorporated into a basket. These generally do not need to be supported and can carry a substantial amount of weight. Click here to see a basket I’ve used and abused. Other smaller wooden handles that do not pass under the base of your basket are just as strong, but don’t offer the same level of support.

Fabric or leather handles are fun and functional. Again, if the fabric passes under the base of your basket, rest assured that it is providing sufficient support to your basket as you carry vegetables, fruits or whatever else you need to! Smaller handles attached to the rim, or any other part of the basket are in and of themselves, still strong and durable but may require additional support from you if you’re carrying anything heavy.

My basket has been damaged. Do you offer free repairs?

I unfortunately am not able to offer free repairs. However, if you have a basket (new or old) that has been damaged I’d be more than happy to take a look at it or even at a detailed photograph of the damage to determine whether a repair is possible.

Remember, baskets are porous. This means any liquids or even mud and dirt can stain your basket. If you are planning to use it for berry picking, temporarily using a plastic liner is a great way to avoid staining. On the other hand, a bit of staining on the bottom can add character. The choice is yours!

I saw a basket in a magazine that I loved. Are you able to replicate it ?

Every basket is unique. I am always happy to take a look at any reference photographs you may have so that I can create the basket of your dreams.