BASKET MAKING

The preservation of communal skills, especially those of the basket making, have been very successful in the Amana Colonies.  There is a strong artistic appreciation here for past creations that were continuously made and heavily used.  Classes, collectors, historians, and house magazines helped promote and focus on the beautiful, essential, and functional baskets that are still made today.  These very collectible and studied baskets are made of wild or cultured willow that are gathered, soaked and woven in the natural or peeled willow bark form.  Using a 4-rod wale or French randing weave, and a unique, replaceable bottom rim, the weaver makes these baskets stand out. Popular baskets are the Apple Picker, Easter, potato, and communion designs. A museum featuring these worthy objects exists in West Amana. All are very special and prized pieces!