{"product_id":"yellow-baskets","title":"Yellow baskets","description":"\u003cp\u003eZulu telephone wire baskets are made by hand-weaving colorful, plastic-coated wire around a form, working from the rim down. The process requires significant hand strength and begins with a thick wire at the rim, which is then shaped as the weaver pulls each wire taut against a form. The wire is woven to create intricate patterns and designs, transforming discarded telephone wire into functional and decorative art.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003eThe Process\u003cbr\u003e1. Starting the Basket:\u003cbr\u003eThe weaving process begins at the top rim of the basket, with a thick, stiff wire forming the outer edge. \u003cbr\u003e2. Weaving Around a Form:\u003cbr\u003eThe weaver then works downwards, pulling each new wire taut against a mold or form to achieve the basket's desired shape. \u003cbr\u003e3. Creating Patterns:\u003cbr\u003eBy using wires of different colors, the artisans create vibrant and intricate patterns, often with unique designs that reflect Zulu culture. \u003cbr\u003e4. Finishing:\u003cbr\u003eThe basket is complete when the desired shape is formed. \u003cbr\u003eThe Materials\u003cbr\u003eTelephone Wire:\u003cbr\u003eThe primary material is plastic-coated telephone wire, which is durable and allows for tight, uniform weaves. \u003cbr\u003eCustom-Manufactured Wire:\u003cbr\u003eWhile the craft originated from recycled wire, modern baskets are often made with new, custom-manufactured wire in various bright colors. \u003cbr\u003eSteel Core:\u003cbr\u003eThe wire has a steel core, providing strength and rigidity to the finished basket. \u003cbr\u003eHistorical Context\u003cbr\u003eOrigin:\u003cbr\u003eThe tradition began in the mid-20th century with Zulu women working in factories and mines. \u003cbr\u003eResourcefulness:\u003cbr\u003eThey started using discarded telephone wire, found at their work sites, as a way to pass time and earn extra income. \u003cbr\u003eEvolution:\u003cbr\u003eWhat started as a practical response to waste evolved into a thriving art form and source of income, allowing artisans to remain in their villages\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"My Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43547536195607,"sku":null,"price":130.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0767\/9665\/7687\/files\/3.jpg?v=1761083358","url":"https:\/\/tutuscrafts.com\/products\/yellow-baskets","provider":"Tutus Crafts","version":"1.0","type":"link"}