👜 Introducing Handmade African Sisal Tote Bags from Kenya
Handwoven by skilled artisans in Kenya, African sisal tote bags are a beautiful fusion of traditional craft and modern utility. Made from the resilient Agave sisalana plant, these bags are crafted using age-old techniques passed down through generations, often within women-led cooperatives that support fair trade and community development.

Made from Sisal, with leather handles and decoration including a Kenyan wild animal motif and a leather fastener for security.

Height: 48 cm / 19 inches tall including handles. 30 cm / 12 inches tall not including handles (the bag itself). Width: 43 cm / 17 inches wide. Weight: 1 kg.

🌿 Craftsmanship & Materials
•     Sisal Fiber: Sustainably harvested, dried, and dyed using natural or AZO-free colorants
•     Weaving Technique: Fine weave or coil methods produce durable, flexible bags with intricate patterns
•     Designs: Available in earthy tones, bold stripes, or tribal motifs—often accented with leather handles or beadwork

🌍 Why Sisal Tote Bags Stand Out

These tote bags are not just accessories—they’re woven stories of resilience, heritage, and sustainability, proudly carried from Kenyan villages to homes around the world.

The production of these bags provides income and empowerment to women in rural Kenyan communities. These baskets are a fusion of sustainability, craftsmanship, and functionality.

🧺 Weaving a Kenyan
Basket: Tradition, Skill, and Storytelling

Handmade baskets in Kenya—especially the iconic Kiondo—are crafted using
age-old techniques passed down through generations, often by women in rural
communities. Each basket is a blend of artistry, sustainability, and cultural
pride.

🌿 1. Harvesting Natural
Fibres

• The
  process begins with sisal, a hardy plant whose leaves are crushed
  to extract strong, flexible fibres.
• These
  fibres are washed, dried, and sometimes dyed using natural or
  commercial colorants.

🧵 2. Preparing the Twine

• Once
  dried, the fibres are rolled into twine by hand or with simple
  tools.
• This
  twine becomes the foundation for weaving.

🪢 3. Weaving the Basket

• Using
  a twining technique, artisans start from the base and work upward
  in a spiral.
• The
  basket’s shape, size, and pattern are guided by tradition or personal
  creativity.
• Some
  designs feature bold stripes, geometric motifs, or symbolic colors
  reflecting local heritage.

🖐️ 4. Adding Handles and
Finishing Touches

• Handles
  may be woven from sisal or added using leather straps, often
  stitched by hand.
• The
  basket is inspected for symmetry, strength, and aesthetic balance.

🧡 5. Personalization and
Storytelling

• Many
  baskets include a handwritten tag with the artisan’s name and
  village.
• This
  personal touch connects the buyer to the maker and the story behind the
  craft.

These baskets aren’t just functional—they’re expressions of
resilience and creativity.

🧺 Caring
for Your Handcrafted Basket: Keep It Beautiful and Functional

Whether it’s a Kenyan sisal kiondo, a Senegalese grass weave, or a
decorative wicker piece, handcrafted baskets thrive with gentle care and
thoughtful handling.

🧼 Cleaning
Tips

• Dust
  regularly with a soft-bristle brush, microfiber
  cloth, or vacuum with a brush attachment.
• For
  deeper cleaning, use a damp cloth with mild soap—never soak or
  submerge the basket.
• Rinse
  gently and air dry completely away from direct sunlight or heat
  sources.

🌞 Storage
& Environment

• Store
  in a cool, dry place, away from moisture and direct sunlight to
  prevent fading, warping, or mold.
• Avoid
  stacking baskets tightly, which can distort their shape.
• If
  storing long-term, wrap in cotton cloth or acid-free tissue paper—never
  plastic.

🪔
Maintenance & Protection

• Apply
  a thin coat of natural oil (like linseed or tung) or beeswax
  polish to nourish fibers and add luster.
• Handle
  with clean, dry hands, supporting the base rather than pulling on
  handles.
• Keep
  away from pets and children to avoid fraying or breakage.

🛠️ Repair
& Restoration

• For
  small tears, gently weave in new material or reshape with warm
  water and hand pressure.
• Loose
  ends can be tucked back in or secured with a dab of wood glue.
• Embrace
  minor imperfections—they’re part of the basket’s handmade charm.

A well-loved basket tells a story, and your
care helps preserve its voice.

The story of how your basket was created