White Oak Basket
Handwoven Basket — Colonial Williamsburg Collection
Handwoven from split white oak local to our studio in Kentucky, this basket is part of our Colonial Williamsburg Collection, a body of work rooted in early American utility objects and the regional craft traditions that once defined everyday life. The form draws from historical white oak baskets used throughout the Colonial Williamsburg region—objects made for strength, flexibility, and decades of use rather than display.
White oak was historically prized for its durability and resistance to wear, making it an essential material for baskets meant to work hard and last for generations. Each basket is made entirely by hand in our studio under the direction of Appalachian basket weaver Micah Wiles, using hand-hewn white oak and traditional splitting and weaving techniques. This form of basketry, once widespread across the region, is now practiced by only a small number of makers nationwide.
Because the material must be harvested, hand-split, and woven using traditional methods, these baskets are produced in extremely limited quantities. Subtle variations in weave, proportion, and surface are a natural result of the process and are an intentional part of the work. Designed to be used often and to age gracefully, these baskets are modern continuations of utilitarian forms that have served American households for centuries.
Variants
Small — Tabletop Basket
A compact utility basket sized for gathering, organizing, or carrying everyday essentials. Well suited for kitchens, worktables, gardens, or shelves where frequent use is part of daily life.
Dimensions:
Tabletop size (dimensions vary slightly; see individual piece)
Large — Utility Basket
Inspired by larger-scale utility baskets found throughout Colonial Williamsburg, this form is built to carry heavier loads while maintaining flexibility and structure. Ideal for firewood, blankets, produce, or tools around the home.
Dimensions:
14” × 14” × 10”
Materials:
Hand-hewn white oak (locally sourced)
Category:
Baskets — Colonial Williamsburg Collection
