{"product_id":"640206-1","title":"Outdoor Basket “Fine” \/ Willow × Hazel \/ DEU 640206-1","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003cimg fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime640206-1_3.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44716\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a handwoven basket with a handle, made from willow bark.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime640206-1_9.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44714\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile\"\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime640206-1_13-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44736 size-full\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe maker is Benjamin, a basket weaver currently living in Germany. Born and raised in France, he learned the craft from his father, who is also a basket maker, and inherited traditional French basketry techniques.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis form is a traditional basket shape often seen in France, particularly in the western regions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAccording to Benjamin, until about two generations ago, farming families in western France—known locally as “Paysans”—used to make several of these finely crafted, practical baskets themselves every winter during the off-farming season.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuch baskets, carefully made over time, were originally used as “potato baskets” to store harvested potatoes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile\"\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240501_265-2.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44927 size-full\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWillow, a common material in Europe, is used together with hazel in this basket.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts nuts are known as “hazelnuts,” and hazel itself is a deciduous shrub belonging to the birch family.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile\"\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime640206-1_15-3.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44928 size-full\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the United Kingdom, hazel is one of the most common shrubs and has long been used as a renewable material for roofing, woven fences, boats, and walking sticks—an essential part of daily life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile\"\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/889b6565b301ea1c9f6b339058c6d8df.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44693 size-full\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\"\u003e\n\u003cp id=\"block-eb6ebb15-06ca-4ac0-b40f-da2966a58f1c\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the photo, the small branches on the left are hazel. Benjamin gathers only the amount he needs from naturally growing hedgerows.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp id=\"block-f240da32-6118-4f63-b989-a0eeb969a385\"\u003eHe says he likes the condition of hazel in winter the most, and always chooses fresh and healthy branches for his work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp id=\"block-c2f375bf-4a0a-4103-9897-f9b461ea6a40\"\u003eHazel is easy to split and twist, strong yet light—an ideal material for basketry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDepending on the availability of materials, European chestnut, common dogwood, or alder buckthorn may also be used.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime640206-1_4.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44740\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere, we introduce this traditionally shaped basket—\u003cbr\u003efound mainly in the rural areas of western France—under the name “Outdoor Basket.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-2 wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240501_252.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240501_252.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44717\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eThe framework begins with the handle and rim arranged in a cross shape, made from hazel—sometimes replaced by European chestnut, alder buckthorn, or common dogwood depending on material availability.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240501_261.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240501_261.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44718\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eFor the vertical stakes, peeled willow (white willow without bark) is used, while the horizontal weavers are strips of willow bark woven alternately front and back.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240501_262.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240501_262.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44719\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eAt the point where the handle meets the basket, a diamond-shaped decorative weave—typical of European basketry—adds both strength and beauty.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240501_263.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240501_263.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44720\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eInside the joint, the connection is firm, giving the basket a stable and well-balanced structure when carried.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240501_264.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240501_264.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44721\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eThe handle is smooth and comfortable to hold. The natural mottled pattern of the branches gives a warm, calming character.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240501_258.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44722\"\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eAlong the rim, the surface is finished so smoothly that almost no irregularities can be felt.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240501_259.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44723\"\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eThe weaving is extremely tight and meticulous, with little to no gaps visible.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240501_268.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240501_268.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44724\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eThe bottom of the basket forms a relaxed and well-balanced oval shape.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240501_267.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240501_267.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44725\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eThe basket, woven from willow bark in subtle shades of deep green and soft khaki, offers a calm tone and quiet depth.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240501_266.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240501_266.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44726\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eIt allows for easy access to items inside and serves well as a practical basket for daily use.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240501_269.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240501_269.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44727\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eAs a feature of willow bark, you may occasionally see natural knots or buds on the surface, as shown in this photo.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240501_270.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240501_270.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44728\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eSome pieces may also show slight peeling of the bark. These are natural characteristics of the material and not defects.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime640206-1_1.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime640206-1_1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44729\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eHere is how it looks when held.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime640206-1_2.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime640206-1_2.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44730\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eThe basket itself is very light, making it easy to carry without strain.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime640206-1_14.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44739\"\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eIt works beautifully as a shopping basket.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime640206-1_12.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44732\"\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eEven when filled with groceries, it firmly supports what’s inside—and above all, it makes shopping feel more enjoyable.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime640206-1_4-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44782\"\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eIt’s also perfect for carrying food and utensils for picnics, camping, or fishing trips.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/d158e291095c0a94b393ddd9f6b52933-2.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44781\"\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eIt can also be used as a tool basket for DIY or gardening. As seen in this photo, Benjamin himself uses it to carry his tools when making baskets.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime640206-1_13.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44734\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom the straight rim, the basket opens outward in a gentle curve,\u003cbr\u003ecreating a graceful, radiating form—crisp yet warm and softly embracing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime640206-1_8.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44735\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt also serves beautifully indoors as a storage basket.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen using it for blankets, clothing, or other fabrics,\u003cbr\u003ewe recommend lining the inside with a piece of cloth to prevent snagging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe calm, deep green gradation of the willow blends naturally with any interior or outfit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDespite its fine weave, this traditional French basket combines beauty with strength—\u003cbr\u003eyet such baskets are now rarely made even in France.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn another page, we also introduce the “Wild,”\u003cbr\u003ea basket Benjamin created with the idea of making something more approachable for everyday use.\u003cbr\u003e– \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/1basketry.live\/products\/640205-1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"\u003eOutdoor Basket “Wild” (640205-1)\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCompared with this traditional “Fine,”\u003cbr\u003ethe “Wild” uses fewer processed materials and fewer weaving steps,\u003cbr\u003eresulting in a simpler, more rustic expression.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis basket carries with it the spirit of the farming life once lived in France—\u003cbr\u003eand even today, it continues to support our lives with its honest, enduring craftsmanship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240501_255.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44733\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBenjamin’s Basket Weaving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBefore becoming a basket maker,\u003cbr\u003eBenjamin worked in fields such as biology, environmental studies, social work, and photography.\u003cbr\u003eOver time, however, he found himself weary of the fast-paced urban lifestyle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSeeking a more meaningful way of living and working, he chose to devote himself to basket weaving.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“I love the simple feeling of touching wood, going out into nature, collecting hazel,\u003cbr\u003eand working with my hands,” he says.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Baskets are used every day to carry and store things.\u003cbr\u003eBeing able to make such objects—not by machine, but from renewable, local materials—\u003cbr\u003egives me a sense of independence.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe says his goal in basket making is always to reach perfection—\u003cbr\u003ea goal that can never truly be attained, which is precisely why it continues to inspire him.\u003cbr\u003eThe baskets he creates are all of exceptional quality, beautifully shaped, and built to last.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlease also take a look at our journal featuring Benjamin from Germany.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/1basketry.live\/blogs\/journal\/encounter-benjamin-basket-maker-germany-2023-part-1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eAn Encounter with Benjamin, a Basket Maker from Germany (Part 1)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/1basketry.live\/blogs\/journal\/drawn-to-hazel-and-willow-benjamin-germany-part-2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eDrawn to Hazel and Willow Baskets: Benjamin, a Basket Maker from Germany (Part 2)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/1basketry.live\/blogs\/journal\/germany-business-trip-2025-part-12\" data-type=\"link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA Visit to Benjamin’s Workshop (1) — Germany Business Trip Journal 12\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/1basketry.live\/blogs\/journal\/germany-business-trip-2025-part-13\" data-type=\"link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA Visit to Benjamin’s Workshop (2)—Germany Business Trip Journal 13\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlease note:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003eThis item ships from Japan. \u003cbr\u003eAs the buyer, you are responsible for any import duties, customs fees, or local taxes that may be charged in your country. \u003cbr\u003eThese costs are not included in the item price or shipping cost. \u003cbr\u003ePlease check with your local customs authority if you are unsure about any potential charges before placing your order.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1basketry","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45726190633109,"sku":"640206-1","price":58300.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0617\/9799\/0549\/files\/ime640206-1_2.jpg?v=1741835080","url":"https:\/\/1basketry.live\/products\/640206-1","provider":"市川籠店 | 1basketry","version":"1.0","type":"link"}