Wood, bamboo, wheat, other grasses, rushes, twigs, osiers, or wicker are often used to make baskets. These items can also made today from plastic. The first baskets were woven by gatherers to collect fruits, grains, nuts, and other edible plant materials, as well as for holding fish by early fishing humans. A creel is a basket made especially to hold fish.

Although baskets were traditionally created to serve a utilitarian rather than an aesthetic purpose, the practice of basket making has evolved into an art. Artistic freedom allows basket makers a wide choice of colors, materials, sizes, patterns, and details.

Holiday Gift Baskets