Tonga Basket - Small
Two weeks of patient hands weaving wild Zimbabwe grasses into timeless beauty.
Ancient wisdom woven into modern living
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Complete the Set
More pieces from the same maker, shipped together.
ABOUT THIS PRODUCT
Hand-woven in the remote Binga district of Northern Zimbabwe, these intricate baskets carry centuries of traditional Tonga weaving wisdom. Each basket emerges from skilled artisan hands using an ancient over-and-under weaving technique, taking nearly two weeks to complete with its distinctive herringbone coiled rim.
Wild grasses, small vines, and palm leaves are locally harvested and naturally dyed with tree bark to create the beautiful patterns that make each piece unique. The sustainable materials and time-honored methods connect you to authentic African craftsmanship while supporting displaced Tonga women in preserving their cultural heritage.
Beyond beautiful storage, these fairly traded baskets create meaningful income for families while keeping traditional arts alive. Each purchase becomes part of a larger story of empowerment, cultural preservation, and conscious living.
HOW WE DO BUSINESS
- The Makers Circle: Our Guiding Values
- Easy Returns & Exchanges
- 100% Safe & Secure Checkout by Shopify
- Customer Support by Humans With Souls
- Ships With Love From Artisan Studio
- Happiness Is Our Goal, We Make It Right
Across Africa, talented craftspeople carry forward artistic skills that, in founder Robbie Stewart's words, are often passed down through generations and represent an invaluable accumulation of knowledge and talent. Mbare calls itself a messenger of culture, committed to sustaining the spirit of Africa by sharing the beauty and integrity of African crafts with the world.
Robbie grew up in Harare, Zimbabwe, and has always appreciated local art found at roadside markets, in urban workshops and in the homes of talented craftspeople. Mbare was born out of his vision of providing lasting sources of income for people and communities outside of the formal economy, and the company says it has worked for environmental and economic justice for more than 27 years.
In the Shona language of Zimbabwe, mbare means a gathering of things, or marketplace. Based in Athens, Georgia, the company has always believed that Africa needs trade, not aid, and describes its pieces as made with heart and rooted in heritage.
• Wild grasses harvested locally in Zimbabwe
• Small vines gathered from natural surroundings
• Palm leaves traditionally prepared
• Tree bark used for natural dyeing
• Diameter: 13-15 inches
• Pattern varies on each individual basket
• Made in Zimbabwe using traditional techniques
• Completion time: approximately two weeks per basket
• Fair trade sourced and verified
• Traditionally handcrafted using ancestral methods
• Supports displaced community economic development
• Store in dry location away from excessive moisture
• Dust gently with soft brush or cloth as needed
• Avoid direct sunlight to preserve natural dye colors
• Handle with care to maintain weave integrity
Q: How long does each basket take to make?
A: Each basket requires approximately two weeks to complete using traditional hand-weaving techniques.
Q: Are the patterns exactly the same on each basket?
A: No, each basket features unique pattern variations as they are individually handcrafted by different artisans.
Q: What materials are used to create the colors?
A: The natural colors come from tree bark dyes applied to wild grasses, small vines, and palm leaves.
Q: How does purchasing support the Tonga community?
A: Your purchase provides fair trade income to displaced Tonga women while helping preserve their traditional weaving heritage.
Q: Can these baskets be used for storage?
A: Yes, these versatile baskets work beautifully for storage while adding authentic African artistry to your space.
Q: What makes Tonga baskets different from other African baskets?
A: Tonga baskets feature the distinctive herringbone coiled rim pattern and specific over-and-under weaving technique unique to this tradition.
Q: Where exactly are these baskets made?
A: These baskets are handcrafted in the remote Binga district of Northern Zimbabwe by skilled Tonga artisans.
THE EVER GOOD
The Maker’s Circle represents the heart of what we believe in. Our 10 guiding values reflect how we curate, connect, and celebrate the people behind the goods within our slow living community. These are the values our makers strive for.
- Slow Living Values – Purpose driven, intentional creation
- Transparent Sourcing – Honest origins and clear practices
- Safe Materials – Non toxic, body safe, and eco friendly
- Small Batch Crafted – Made in limited quantities with care
- Handmade Quality – Human touch and artisan skill in every detail
- Timeless Craftsmanship – Enduring beauty and thoughtful function
- Ethical Production – Fair labor and responsible practices
- Sustainable Practices – Respect for nature at every stage
- Positive Energy – Made with love, gratitude, and good intention
- Conscious Packaging – Minimal, recyclable, or biodegradable materials
Each item ships directly from the maker’s workshop or studio. You may receive multiple packages, each crafted and packed by the artisans themselves.
We want you to love what you ordered, but we understand returns happen. Most items can be returned within 30 days if unused and in original condition. Some makers have unique return policies, which we honor respectfully.
See full details here: Refund Policy
HEALTH DISCLAIMER: The Ever Good is not a healthcare provider and does not offer medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Product details and ingredient information are provided by the makers, and The Ever Good is not responsible for their claims. Our guiding values are for general inspiration and selection purposes only. Always consult a qualified professional regarding any health-related concerns.
