Duara Crossbody Basket
Details & artisan story
Handwoven Kenyan Sisal Crossbody Basket - Fair Trade Artisan Bag
The Duara Crossbody Basket is a stunning example of traditional Kenyan craftsmanship, handwoven by skilled women artisans in rural Kenya. Each basket tells a story of heritage, sustainability, and empowerment as weavers transform sustainably sourced sisal fibers into a functional work of art. The name 'Duara' means 'circle' in Swahili, symbolizing the continuous cycle of tradition and community support.
Artisan Craftsmanship & Cultural Heritage
Created by a dedicated women's weaving collective, each Duara basket undergoes a meticulous multi-day process. Sisal fibers sourced from small-scale women farmers in the Machakos region are hand-processed through traditional decortication, naturally dyed using low-impact fiber-reactive dyes, sun-dried under the African sun, and carefully woven by hand. This labor-intensive process ensures no two bags are identical—each carries the unique touch of its maker and celebrates ancestral weaving practices passed down through generations.
Premium Materials & Design
- 100% handwoven sisal fiber from sustainable sources
- Supple Nubuck crust leather straps treated with minimal chemicals
- Compact crossbody design perfect for essentials
- Lightweight yet durable construction
- Natural color variations reflecting authentic handcrafted character
- Adjustable leather strap for comfortable wear
Versatile Everyday Companion
This compact crossbody basket transitions seamlessly from farmers' markets to weekend adventures. The perfect size for your phone, wallet, keys, and small essentials while keeping your hands free. The natural sisal texture and leather accents complement both casual and bohemian styles, making it an ideal accessory for conscious consumers who value both aesthetics and ethics.
Fair Trade & Ethical Impact
Your purchase directly supports women artisans in rural Kenya, helping preserve endangered textile traditions while providing sustainable livelihoods. By choosing the Duara Crossbody Basket, you're investing in economic empowerment for women weavers and ensuring these valuable skills continue for future generations. This isn't just a bag—it's a tangible connection to African heritage and community development.
Specifications
Size: 7" x 8" (18 cm x 20 cm)
Material: 100% hand-dyed sisal, Nubuck crust leather straps
Origin: Handmade in Kenya
Care: Wipe clean with damp cloth, avoid prolonged moisture exposure
Due to the handmade nature of the Duara Crossbody Basket, slight variations in color and size should be expected, making each piece truly one of a kind.
CARE & MAINTENANCE
To maintain the beauty and integrity of your purchase, we recommend treating it with care. Simple maintenance practices, such as gentle washing and proper storage, can effectively preserve the longevity of your favorites.
SHIPPING & RETURNS
We strive to process and ship all orders in a timely manner, working diligently to ensure that your items are on their way to you as soon as possible. Need to return something? Just let us know.
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Artisan-made • Ethically crafted • Built to last