A twined basket and a coiled basket are two different types of baskets that are created using distinct weaving techniques. The main difference lies in the way the materials are woven together and the types of baskets that are typically produced.
Twining is a weaving technique where two or more weavers, known as weft elements, are twisted around a set of warp elements to create a basket. The weavers are crossed over each other in a specific pattern, resulting in a strong and durable weave. Twining is commonly used to produce winnowing trays, burden baskets, cradle baskets, storage baskets, and seed beaters.
On the other hand, coiling is a technique where a single weaver, known as the foundation, is coiled around itself to create a basket. The weaver is stitched or sewn together using a separate material, such as thread or thin strips of a flexible material. Coiling allows for a tighter weave and more intricate patterns, making it suitable for producing cooking baskets, eating bowls, storage baskets, gift baskets, and sifting trays.
In terms of the appearance, twined baskets often have a more open and airy look, with visible gaps between the weavers. The twining technique creates a distinctive diagonal pattern, adding visual interest to the basket. Coiled baskets, on the other hand, tend to have a more solid and compact appearance, with the coils tightly bound together. The coiling technique allows for more detailed patterns and designs to be incorporated into the basket.
The choice between twining and coiling depends on the intended use and desired aesthetic of the basket. Twined baskets are often preferred for items that require flexibility and breathability, such as winnowing trays used for separating grain from chaff or cradle baskets used for carrying babies. Coiled baskets, with their tighter weave, are better suited for items that need to hold their shape and require intricate designs, such as cooking baskets or gift baskets.
I personally have had the opportunity to witness the creation of both twined and coiled baskets during my visits to indigenous communities. It was fascinating to see the skilled artisans using their traditional techniques to weave these beautiful baskets. The twining process involved carefully twisting the weft elements around the warp elements, creating a rhythmic and almost meditative motion. The coiling process, on the other hand, required precision and attention to detail as the weaver coil the foundation material around itself, ensuring each coil was tightly stitched to the previous one.
Twining and coiling are two distinct weaving techniques that result in different types of baskets. Twining is known for its open and diagonal pattern, producing baskets suitable for flexible and breathable items. Coiling, with its tighter weave and intricate designs, is ideal for creating baskets that require shape and visual appeal.
