Sisal Woven Basket – Traditional Uganda Craft
The sisal woven basket is one of Uganda’s most celebrated traditional crafts. Handmade by skilled weavers — predominantly women — using natural sisal fibre, these baskets represent centuries of weaving tradition and are both stunning decorative objects and practical everyday items.
Traditional Weaving Techniques
Ugandan sisal baskets are made using the coil-weaving method, in which long strands of dried sisal fibre are coiled and stitched together to form the base and walls of the basket. Natural dyes sourced from plants, bark, and minerals are used to create vivid geometric patterns in red, brown, black, cream, and green. Some weavers also use banana fibre and raffia alongside sisal for added texture.
A single basket can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks to complete, depending on its size and the complexity of its pattern. The result is a durable, tightly woven piece that holds its shape for decades.
Types and Sizes
- Coil storage baskets — round, lidded, ideal for holding fruits, bread, or trinkets
- Open market baskets — large, deep, with handles for carrying
- Decorative wall baskets — flat-backed, designed to hang as wall art
- Small gift baskets — palm-sized, perfect for gifting
Where to Buy
Sisal woven baskets are available at craft cooperatives throughout Uganda, including at Bwindi village stalls, Kampala’s Owino Market, and the Uganda Arts and Crafts Village. Prices range from $5 for small pieces to $40+ for large, intricately patterned baskets.