Artisan Woven Baskets - Vietnam
The artisans donning a "Non La" (a connical leaf hat) to protect them from the rain
"We want to build relationships with humanistic spirit and see our artisans as the most valuable property. Our motto is “ Unity is strength"
Phuong, the manager of the artisan co-operative in Hanoi, Vietnam that produces Harfi seagrass baskets and rattan bags
Location: Hanoi, Vietnam
Craft: Baskets
Materials Used: Seagrass, Rattan
Background: Established just over ten years our partnership business in Vietnam was set up by a few young Vietnamese individuals to help the poor and marginalised population within Vietnam. Although the Vietnamese economy was doing pretty well, urbanised areas such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City were suffering. Even though there were a lot of talented existing handicraft producers they were struggling to find enough market for their product to sustain a good living. By bringing these artisans together, training them with new skills, introducing new designs and helping them find more market for their products they now enjoy a better and more stable livelihood.
Basket making in action at the artisan co-operative
Technique: Hand-woven by skilled artisans, each basket is uniquely-made out of sustainable seagrass from Vietnam and hand-dipped in a water-based paint to add a pop of colour
Interesting Fact: Hand craftmanship is so embedded in Vietnamese culture and history that many places and street names relate to the specific craft that the street was initially known for, and is now being known for again.
Shop our artisan woven baskets here