Indian baskets have a unique purpose and place in the culture of Native Americans. I enjoy using these hand-made baskets to bring southwest style to my home. It is interesting when you start studying the history of Indian basket weaving and find that the use of baskets actually started centuries ago and is one of the most ancient forms of art known in Indigenous history. Indian baskets, weaved by Tribes like the Pueblo, Apache, Navajo and Tarahumara are famous for their detailed, handmade designs and elaborate styles. As you learn about basket weaving, you will learn that in most Native American Tribes, women are responsible for basket weaving and learn the art as little girls from their mothers. Baskets are used for many purposes in the daily lives of the Native Indians and help the people financially.

As you will learn, Indian baskets not only look great as accessories to rustic and southwestern decorating, but they are also very useful. At first, baskets were made out of necessity by Native people as a way to hold valuable things like food, clothing, animal hides, blankets and even water. Years ago, Native American Tribes moved often and needed ways to protect their things while still being able to move them easily. Unlike pottery, baskets were resistant and would not break. Now days, Tribes still use baskets in their homes and dwellings to protect their things and keep them organized. They also serve as a means of income for many Indian people, and play a significant part in Native events and rituals, such as Navajo wedding ceremonies, and in rights of passage ceremonies.

There are different types of Indian baskets and each Tribe has different variations. Southwest style, Native baskets are some of the most beautiful in the world and are considered a true form of art. The way these baskets are made is truly amazing and is very exciting to watch. The two types of baskets made by this Tribe are the yucca or sotol as it is also known, and pine needle baskets. Baskets made of Yucca are very well-known and are made in different shapes and sizes. Pine baskets are more commonly found in the mountain region where pine trees grow, but are smaller than the yucca baskets and more delicate.

There are different types of weaving designs Native people use in basket making that differ between Tribes. The guari type, the most popular weave among the Tarahumara in the mountain region of Northern Mexico, is curved at the top, somewhat square, and has four well-defined corners at the bottom. The petaca is another style of weave used commonly in the canyon regions, and is round and often double woven. Sometimes the leaves are run back and forth on a rough stone to smooth the sharp edges before the basket maker starts to weave.

Native Indian baskets come in various styles, designs and colors based on the Tribe and the region where it is made. Even if you are not able to go to the tribal location and choose an Indian basket of your own, you can still enjoy a piece of this American Indian form of art. It is easy to buy southwestern style baskets online and in stores that sell one of a kind, rustic and country style interior decorating accessories. Bring Native customs and traditions to life in your home with one of a kind, handmade Indian baskets.