Blue Sky Basket, Uganda

This stunning basket is handmade by talented artisans in Uganda. The interior fiber forming the core of each coil is banana fiber, around which raffia palm is wrapped. With each wrapping, the fiber is threaded through the previous coil to form the basket.   Small basket measures approximately 8" in diameter and 2" high. Large basket measures approximately 12-13" in diamete and 4" high. Baskets have a loop for hanging on the wall. ABOUT THE ARTISANS This beautiful basket was handcrafted in a fair trade cooperative in Uganda.  The organization provides training in quality control, design and marketing. There is also a retail store that provides employment for people with physical disabilities. One of the missions of the organization is to provide hope to disabled people, youth and those suffering from HIV/AIDS.  In addition to training, employees receive health benefits, emergency loans and transportation.  Approximately 300 artisans work in five workshops or cooperatives, 85 percent of them women.