Ink Iringa Baskets

These durable, natural fiber baskets are woven from milulu, a reed-like grass that grows near the city of Iringa, Tanzania. Dyed to a rich black with vivid purple undertones (see photos) from the dying process, the baskets are useful for storage and organizing throughout your home. They can be rinsed and reshaped with cool water as needed.  Sold singly. Because this is a handcrafted item, each will vary. Small: 10"D x 10"H Medium: 12"D x 12"H Large: 13"D x 13"H Crafted from: Milulu grass, natural dye Made in: Tanzania About the Artisans: Vikapu Bomba embodies the vision of Catherine Shembilu to create sustainable income for talented, rural Tanzanian women. For many women living in the lush southern highlands, life centers around subsistence farming, cooking, cleaning, and caring for children. Women can weave baskets between their other duties, working daily to earn money to pay school fees, buy food, procure farming supplies and contribute to savings. When a woman has money of her own to use or share, she has greater influence over her life and future. Milulu grass reeds can be harvested carefully from the marsh without removing the entire plant. The reeds are dried in the sun, dyed with natural dyes, and split for weaving. The closeness to the earth of both maker and product gives these beautifully crafted baskets natural appeal.