Questions About Pine Needle Baskets

I love the baskets, but what do I do with them?

While each basket is a work of art, they are "functional art" and are meant to be used in everyday life. Click here to see a page full of ideas.

How are they made?

These beautiful baskets are hand-woven from long-needle pines using the coiling method, an art form which dates back several centuries. Once the needles are gathered, they are cleaned, and stripped of the cap. They are then boiled for at least one hour to make them pliable enough to begin the coiling process. Each basket takes several hours to complete and no two are alike.

Will the basket dry out and fall apart over time?

No. Since the baskets are woven with dry needles, they will not shrink or lose their shape. The needles are tightly woven and absorb moisture from the air which keeps them pliable. The basket will remain exactly as you see it for years to come.

What if it gets wet or dirty?

If it gets dirty, clean with a small brush and mild soap. Rinse and allow to air dry. If you are using it as a display piece on a book shelf or fireplace mantle, use canned air to occasionally dust it.

How long do they hold their smell?

We have pieces that are over a year old and still have the wonderful aroma of the pines.

Can the hotplates really take the heat?

Yes, they are heat tolerable. They will not burst into flames, become scorched, or turn colors.

Can I use the ovals to carry my casserole dishes?

If you are going a short distance, from stove to table, using the ovals as a carrying container is fine. However, if you are going to carry the dish away from your home, we suggest that you purchase an insulated container set, which is better suited for travel and will keep the food hot.

Why are there slight scratches in the nickel of my basket?

The nickel is not damaged. You are actually seeing slight imperfections in the metal, intensified by the nickel. The rim begins as dull metal ring, is highly polished to achieve a bright luster, and then plated with nickel to provide durability and seal in the shine. Unlike silver, the nickel will not tarnish or require frequent polishing. Each piece is created by hand, and while much care is taken, perfection is impossible. Consider the slight blemishes a unique characteristic of that basket!

How do I clean the nickel?

To maintain the luster of the nickel, clean occasionally with a non-abrasive cleaner like Soft Scrub, which can be found in any store.

How long are the needles used to make these baskets?

The needles are approximately 12 inches long.

How long does it take to make a basket?

Depending on the size and style of the piece, each item can take from 10 to 70 hours to complete. That is after the needles have been gathered, cleaned, and prepared for use!

I bought several of the same style baskets for gifts, but they are all different. Why?

These baskets are not machine made - thus no two will be exactly alike. Each is hand woven by a different individual and will vary in shape, size, and color of the pines used.

I'd like to give some as gifts. Where can I find them?

Click here to access our "Store Locator" page to find a retailer near you. If there is not a retailer near by, you can order online, or give us a call at 1-877-851-1337, and we will assist you.