About the Process: Wolof Weavers of Senegal
Hailey Fynaardt
For the Wolof women of Senegal, weaving is not only an important cultural tradition that is passed down through generations, but a viable means of earning an income in rural villages where resources and infrastructure is limited. As teenagers, girls learn the techniques from their mothers and aunts and sell the baskets in local markets.
image via SwahiliModern
The Wolof people are mostly Muslim and they use these simple prayer mats several times a day. When the mats wear out, the discarded material is repurposed into practical home decor products like baskets and hampers. The Wolof technique of wrapping natural fibers with plastic cord and then coiling the long strands together makes these baskets ultra-durable and resistant to heat or moisture damage.
image via thelittlemarket
These simple and modern baskets are a stylish and practical way to store everyday items in every room of the house. In a bathroom they could stash towels, hair brushes, and toiletries. On a shelf or dresser, they can keep small accessories within reach. They also look great atop a bookshelf or cabinet. They're ethical, sustainable, and minimalist-approved!