Large African Reed Tray - whether displayed on a wall or used in daily life, this tray carries the spirit of African craftsmanship and rural tradition.

Approx 40 to 44 cm wide x 5 cm deep

Serving Platter Serves Bread Snacks Fruit etc.

Made by hand by the artisans of Kenya. 

🇰🇪 Handwoven Winnowing Reed Tray – Kenya
Bring a touch of African heritage into your home with this beautifully handcrafted round winnowing tray, traditionally known as an uteo in Swahili. Made from natural reeds, this tray was originally used to separate grain from chaff—a timeless symbol of rural life and resourcefulness.

🌾 Product Details
•     Origin: Handmade in Kenya
•     Material: Dried reeds, some naturally dyed for contrast
•     Diameter: Approx. 40 cm (varies slightly due to handmade nature)
•     Design: Flat, round surface with gently raised edges
•     Function:
•     Traditionally used for winnowing grains
•     Ideal as a decorative wall piece, serving tray, or table centerpiece
•     Can also be used for organizing small items like keys or accessories

✨ Why You'll Love It
•     Each tray is woven by skilled artisans, preserving generations of technique
•     The natural textures and earthy tones add warmth and authenticity to any space
•     A perfect blend of functionality and cultural storytelling
Whether displayed on a wall or used in daily life, this tray carries the spirit of Kenyan craftsmanship and rural tradition. A beautiful, ethical addition to any home.

🧺 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