Woven with elephant grass and guided by their own ‘rhythm and flow,
BABATREE BASKETS
babatree baskets
Baba Tree Baskets was founded by Gregory MacCarthy, who moved to Ghana with a deep appreciation for traditional African craftsmanship. He established the brand to support local artisans in Bolgatanga, helping to preserve their intricate basket-weaving techniques and promote sustainable employment. Each basket is handwoven using vibrant colors and natural materials, blending artistry with functionality. Through Baba Tree, MacCarthy ensures artisans receive fair wages, empowering the local community while offering globally unique, beautifully crafted baskets.
Baba Tree baskets are crafted through traditional Ghanaian weaving techniques using elephant grass, a resilient natural material that is harvested and prepared locally. The process begins with splitting, where artisans divide each strand of grass into manageable pieces with their teeth, followed by rolling to smooth and strengthen it. The prepared straw is then dyed in vibrant colors before artisans spend weeks weaving intricate, functional designs. This time-intensive work ensures that each piece reflects the skill and creativity of the individual weaver, blending practicality with artistry.
Guided by founder Gregory MacCarthy, Baba Tree emphasizes craftsmanship and quality, encouraging artisans to experiment and incorporate their unique styles into each basket. This approach respects the natural variability of materials and allows the weavers to honor their heritage while exploring modern forms and patterns that resonate with a global audience.
THE PROCESS
MacCarthy’s commitment to these principles has helped elevate Ghanaian basket weaving, fostering innovation within the craft while preserving its traditional roots.
Additionally, Baba Tree champions fair trade practices, providing artisans with fair wages, stable employment, and a supportive environment where they can share techniques and mentor younger weavers. This nurturing atmosphere not only preserves Bolgatanga’s weaving skills but also empowers artisans and enriches the local community. Each basket is a testament to resilience, cultural pride, and artistry, bringing a piece of Ghanaian craftsmanship into homes around the world.
DISCOVER
Discover Babatree Basket’s handcrafted creations at our online shop, where each piece reflects exceptional skill and artistry. Explore our unique collection today and support the timeless tradition of craftsmanship.
