Tell Me About Baskets | How Weaving, Fibres, Frames, Handles, Loads, Storage and Basket Design Work

Tell me about baskets. A basket is a lightweight open or semi-open container made by weaving, moulding or joining narrow structural elements into a three-dimensional form. Baskets can be made from rattan, willow, bamboo, reed, cane, rope, wire, plastic or mixed materials. Their walls often contain many gaps, yet the interlaced structure can carry surprisingly large loads.

When people ask how baskets work, the central ideas are weaving, tension, bending and load distribution. Individual fibres or strips may be flexible, but crossing them repeatedly creates a network that shares force across many paths. The base carries the contents, the walls stabilise the shape, and handles transfer the combined load into the user’s hands.

Modern baskets are therefore small structural lattices. A market basket, laundry basket, storage bin, picnic basket, bicycle basket and industrial picking basket each tune openness, stiffness, handle strength, washability and weight differently. Good basket design balances capacity, airflow, durability, stackability, repair and how the load is carried.

The 50-Second Answer

A basket works because many strips, fibres or ribs cross and support one another. The weave distributes load across the base and walls while gaps keep the structure light and ventilated.

Handles and rims reinforce the areas where force concentrates during lifting and carrying.

In practical use, the 50-second answer changes with load shape, moisture, handling and storage. A basket carrying soft laundry experiences different forces from one carrying glass bottles, so structural performance must be judged with the intended contents.

Weaving

Weaving interlaces flexible elements so they cannot move independently.

The repeated crossings create friction and geometric locking that make a soft material behave like a stable shell.

The design trade-off around weaving usually involves openness, stiffness, weight, durability and cleanability. More lattice reduces mass and improves airflow, while denser construction better supports small or heavy objects.

Warp Elements

Long structural elements form the main skeleton of a woven basket.

Depending on tradition they may be called stakes, spokes or warps, and they carry much of the vertical and radial load.

For diagnosis, trace the structural path in warp elements. Look for broken stakes, stretched grid cells, cracked handles, warped rims or worn bases rather than assuming the visible damage is only cosmetic.

Weft Elements

Weft material passes over and under the structural stakes.

It holds spacing, shapes the walls and distributes local pressure around the basket.

From a manufacturing perspective, weft elements must remain consistent across hand weaving, moulding or welding. Uneven tension, cooling shrinkage, rough wire ends and weak attachment points all influence long-term carrying performance.

Plain Weave

Plain weave alternates over one and under one.

It is simple, stable and widely used in flat panels and basket walls.

In practical use, plain weave changes with load shape, moisture, handling and storage. A basket carrying soft laundry experiences different forces from one carrying glass bottles, so structural performance must be judged with the intended contents.

Twill Weave

Twill patterns pass over and under groups in offset sequences.

They create diagonal visual lines and can allow more flexibility than plain weave.

The design trade-off around twill weave usually involves openness, stiffness, weight, durability and cleanability. More lattice reduces mass and improves airflow, while denser construction better supports small or heavy objects.

Coiling

Coiled baskets build walls from a continuous bundled core stitched to the previous row.

The method creates strong spiral construction without separate upright stakes.

For diagnosis, trace the structural path in coiling. Look for broken stakes, stretched grid cells, cracked handles, warped rims or worn bases rather than assuming the visible damage is only cosmetic.

Plaiting

Plaited baskets use broad strips crossing in simple geometric patterns.

They are common with palm leaves, bamboo strips and flat synthetic tapes.

From a manufacturing perspective, plaiting must remain consistent across hand weaving, moulding or welding. Uneven tension, cooling shrinkage, rough wire ends and weak attachment points all influence long-term carrying performance.

Twining

Twining uses paired weft elements that twist around vertical stakes.

The method grips the stakes securely and can create open or dense structures.

In practical use, twining changes with load shape, moisture, handling and storage. A basket carrying soft laundry experiences different forces from one carrying glass bottles, so structural performance must be judged with the intended contents.

Wicker

Wicker describes a weaving technique rather than one plant species.

Rattan, willow, reed and synthetic fibres can all be used to make wicker furniture or baskets.

The design trade-off around wicker usually involves openness, stiffness, weight, durability and cleanability. More lattice reduces mass and improves airflow, while denser construction better supports small or heavy objects.

Rattan

Rattan is a climbing palm with long strong stems.

Its cane can be split into flexible strands, while thicker pieces form frames and handles.

For diagnosis, trace the structural path in rattan. Look for broken stakes, stretched grid cells, cracked handles, warped rims or worn bases rather than assuming the visible damage is only cosmetic.

Cane

Cane often refers to peeled rattan material.

It is smooth, strong and well suited to fine weaving because it bends without breaking when properly prepared.

From a manufacturing perspective, cane must remain consistent across hand weaving, moulding or welding. Uneven tension, cooling shrinkage, rough wire ends and weak attachment points all influence long-term carrying performance.

Willow

Willow rods are traditional basket-making material.

Fresh or soaked rods bend readily and become stiffer as they dry into the finished form.

In practical use, willow changes with load shape, moisture, handling and storage. A basket carrying soft laundry experiences different forces from one carrying glass bottles, so structural performance must be judged with the intended contents.

Bamboo

Bamboo can be split into thin strips with high tensile strength.

Its long fibres create lightweight strong basket walls and rims.

The design trade-off around bamboo usually involves openness, stiffness, weight, durability and cleanability. More lattice reduces mass and improves airflow, while denser construction better supports small or heavy objects.

Reed

Reed materials are light and flexible.

They are useful for smaller decorative baskets but may need thicker framework for heavy loads.

For diagnosis, trace the structural path in reed. Look for broken stakes, stretched grid cells, cracked handles, warped rims or worn bases rather than assuming the visible damage is only cosmetic.

Palm Leaves

Palm strips can be plaited into light baskets and mats.

The broad flat geometry makes them efficient for open everyday carrying containers.

From a manufacturing perspective, palm leaves must remain consistent across hand weaving, moulding or welding. Uneven tension, cooling shrinkage, rough wire ends and weak attachment points all influence long-term carrying performance.

Seagrass

Seagrass can be dried and twisted or woven.

It creates soft natural-textured baskets suited more to household storage than heavy industrial loads.

In practical use, seagrass changes with load shape, moisture, handling and storage. A basket carrying soft laundry experiences different forces from one carrying glass bottles, so structural performance must be judged with the intended contents.

Rope Baskets

Rope baskets use coiled cotton, jute or synthetic cord.

Stitching or braiding holds the coils together while the rope itself provides wall thickness and softness.

The design trade-off around rope baskets usually involves openness, stiffness, weight, durability and cleanability. More lattice reduces mass and improves airflow, while denser construction better supports small or heavy objects.

Wire Baskets

Wire baskets use welded or woven metal grids.

They are strong, washable and ventilated, but exposed wire ends and corrosion protection require careful finishing.

For diagnosis, trace the structural path in wire baskets. Look for broken stakes, stretched grid cells, cracked handles, warped rims or worn bases rather than assuming the visible damage is only cosmetic.

Plastic Baskets

Plastic baskets are commonly injection-moulded as one-piece grids.

Ribs and perforations create stiffness while reducing material and letting air pass through.

From a manufacturing perspective, plastic baskets must remain consistent across hand weaving, moulding or welding. Uneven tension, cooling shrinkage, rough wire ends and weak attachment points all influence long-term carrying performance.

Injection Moulding

Molten polymer fills a mould containing the entire basket wall and grid pattern.

Cooling and ejection must be controlled because large thin lattice structures can warp.

In practical use, injection moulding changes with load shape, moisture, handling and storage. A basket carrying soft laundry experiences different forces from one carrying glass bottles, so structural performance must be judged with the intended contents.

Polypropylene

Polypropylene is common in household baskets.

It is tough, light, moisture resistant and flexible enough to survive drops without cracking easily.

The design trade-off around polypropylene usually involves openness, stiffness, weight, durability and cleanability. More lattice reduces mass and improves airflow, while denser construction better supports small or heavy objects.

HDPE

High-density polyethylene is also used in utility baskets and crates.

It combines toughness with good chemical resistance and performs well in wet environments.

For diagnosis, trace the structural path in hdpe. Look for broken stakes, stretched grid cells, cracked handles, warped rims or worn bases rather than assuming the visible damage is only cosmetic.

Wall Openings

Openings reduce weight and improve airflow.

Their size must remain small enough that stored objects do not fall through or distort the lattice excessively.

From a manufacturing perspective, wall openings must remain consistent across hand weaving, moulding or welding. Uneven tension, cooling shrinkage, rough wire ends and weak attachment points all influence long-term carrying performance.

Ventilation

Airflow is valuable for laundry, produce and damp items.

Open basket walls let moisture escape faster than sealed containers.

In practical use, ventilation changes with load shape, moisture, handling and storage. A basket carrying soft laundry experiences different forces from one carrying glass bottles, so structural performance must be judged with the intended contents.

Dust Entry

The same openness that improves ventilation also lets dust enter.

Storage baskets for long-term household use sometimes add fabric liners or lids.

The design trade-off around dust entry usually involves openness, stiffness, weight, durability and cleanability. More lattice reduces mass and improves airflow, while denser construction better supports small or heavy objects.

The Base

The base carries most of the vertical load.

Dense weaving, cross ribs or thicker moulded plastic prevent contents from sagging through the bottom.

For diagnosis, trace the structural path in the base. Look for broken stakes, stretched grid cells, cracked handles, warped rims or worn bases rather than assuming the visible damage is only cosmetic.

Base Curvature

A slightly raised or ribbed base increases stiffness.

Flat unsupported sheets bend easily, while shaped sections distribute load more efficiently.

From a manufacturing perspective, base curvature must remain consistent across hand weaving, moulding or welding. Uneven tension, cooling shrinkage, rough wire ends and weak attachment points all influence long-term carrying performance.

The Rim

The rim ties the wall together at the open top.

It prevents stakes from spreading and often carries handle attachments.

In practical use, the rim changes with load shape, moisture, handling and storage. A basket carrying soft laundry experiences different forces from one carrying glass bottles, so structural performance must be judged with the intended contents.

Wrapped Rims

Natural-fibre baskets may wrap flexible cane around a thicker rim frame.

The binding locks wall elements to the frame and creates a smooth hand-contact edge.

The design trade-off around wrapped rims usually involves openness, stiffness, weight, durability and cleanability. More lattice reduces mass and improves airflow, while denser construction better supports small or heavy objects.

Handles

Handles transfer the entire basket-and-content load to the user.

They need strong attachment zones because carrying force concentrates where the handle meets the rim or walls.

For diagnosis, trace the structural path in handles. Look for broken stakes, stretched grid cells, cracked handles, warped rims or worn bases rather than assuming the visible damage is only cosmetic.

Arched Handles

Single arched handles place the grip over the basket’s centre.

The load hangs below naturally, allowing the basket to self-align during carrying.

From a manufacturing perspective, arched handles must remain consistent across hand weaving, moulding or welding. Uneven tension, cooling shrinkage, rough wire ends and weak attachment points all influence long-term carrying performance.

Side Handles

Laundry and storage baskets often use two side handles.

Two-handed carrying reduces swing and works well for wide loads.

In practical use, side handles changes with load shape, moisture, handling and storage. A basket carrying soft laundry experiences different forces from one carrying glass bottles, so structural performance must be judged with the intended contents.

Handle Openings

Moulded baskets may create handles as reinforced holes in the wall.

Rounded edges spread pressure across the fingers and prevent cracking at sharp corners.

The design trade-off around handle openings usually involves openness, stiffness, weight, durability and cleanability. More lattice reduces mass and improves airflow, while denser construction better supports small or heavy objects.

Handle Wrapping

Natural handles can be wrapped with cane, leather or cord.

The wrap increases grip and protects structural rods from abrasion.

For diagnosis, trace the structural path in handle wrapping. Look for broken stakes, stretched grid cells, cracked handles, warped rims or worn bases rather than assuming the visible damage is only cosmetic.

Load Distribution

A basket’s contents press on the base and outward on the walls.

The interlaced structure spreads these forces into many strips instead of one continuous panel.

From a manufacturing perspective, load distribution must remain consistent across hand weaving, moulding or welding. Uneven tension, cooling shrinkage, rough wire ends and weak attachment points all influence long-term carrying performance.

Flexible Walls

Some baskets intentionally flex under load.

Controlled flexibility lets them absorb impact without brittle failure, but excessive deformation can make carrying unstable.

In practical use, flexible walls changes with load shape, moisture, handling and storage. A basket carrying soft laundry experiences different forces from one carrying glass bottles, so structural performance must be judged with the intended contents.

Rigid Frames

Picnic and display baskets often use thick rim frames and corner stakes.

The frame preserves shape so lids and internal compartments align correctly.

The design trade-off around rigid frames usually involves openness, stiffness, weight, durability and cleanability. More lattice reduces mass and improves airflow, while denser construction better supports small or heavy objects.

Centre of Mass

A loaded basket hangs or sits according to the combined centre of mass.

Uneven loading can make a single-handle basket tilt and press contents against one wall.

For diagnosis, trace the structural path in centre of mass. Look for broken stakes, stretched grid cells, cracked handles, warped rims or worn bases rather than assuming the visible damage is only cosmetic.

Tipping Stability

Wide flat bases resist tipping better than narrow tall baskets.

Tall laundry baskets save floor area but need broad enough footprints for clothing piled high.

From a manufacturing perspective, tipping stability must remain consistent across hand weaving, moulding or welding. Uneven tension, cooling shrinkage, rough wire ends and weak attachment points all influence long-term carrying performance.

Nesting

Tapered plastic baskets can nest when empty.

Nesting reduces transport and storage volume dramatically, especially in retail and industrial systems.

In practical use, nesting changes with load shape, moisture, handling and storage. A basket carrying soft laundry experiences different forces from one carrying glass bottles, so structural performance must be judged with the intended contents.

Anti-Jam Stops

Small ribs prevent nested baskets from sliding so deeply that friction locks them together.

These features save handling time in shops and warehouses.

The design trade-off around anti-jam stops usually involves openness, stiffness, weight, durability and cleanability. More lattice reduces mass and improves airflow, while denser construction better supports small or heavy objects.

Stacking

Some rigid baskets are designed to stack when full.

Rims or corner features transfer upper loads into strong vertical paths rather than crushing contents.

For diagnosis, trace the structural path in stacking. Look for broken stakes, stretched grid cells, cracked handles, warped rims or worn bases rather than assuming the visible damage is only cosmetic.

Stack-and-Nest Designs

Industrial picking baskets may rotate 180 degrees to change between nesting and stacking modes.

One orientation saves space empty; the other creates structural support when loaded.

From a manufacturing perspective, stack-and-nest designs must remain consistent across hand weaving, moulding or welding. Uneven tension, cooling shrinkage, rough wire ends and weak attachment points all influence long-term carrying performance.

Laundry Baskets

Laundry baskets prioritise ventilation, low weight and comfortable two-hand grips.

Large openings keep the plastic light while clothing itself cannot escape through the grid.

In practical use, laundry baskets changes with load shape, moisture, handling and storage. A basket carrying soft laundry experiences different forces from one carrying glass bottles, so structural performance must be judged with the intended contents.

Market Baskets

Market baskets carry irregular produce and groceries.

Natural woven walls flex slightly around contents and provide ventilation for fruit and vegetables.

The design trade-off around market baskets usually involves openness, stiffness, weight, durability and cleanability. More lattice reduces mass and improves airflow, while denser construction better supports small or heavy objects.

Picnic Baskets

Picnic baskets use rigid forms, lids and internal straps or compartments.

Their purpose includes presentation and organisation in addition to carrying.

For diagnosis, trace the structural path in picnic baskets. Look for broken stakes, stretched grid cells, cracked handles, warped rims or worn bases rather than assuming the visible damage is only cosmetic.

Bicycle Baskets

Bicycle baskets attach to handlebars, racks or frames.

Mounting must resist vibration and steering loads while keeping cargo clear of wheels.

From a manufacturing perspective, bicycle baskets must remain consistent across hand weaving, moulding or welding. Uneven tension, cooling shrinkage, rough wire ends and weak attachment points all influence long-term carrying performance.

Front Bicycle Baskets

Front baskets add mass near the steering assembly.

Heavy loads can change steering feel, so carrying limits matter beyond basket strength alone.

In practical use, front bicycle baskets changes with load shape, moisture, handling and storage. A basket carrying soft laundry experiences different forces from one carrying glass bottles, so structural performance must be judged with the intended contents.

Rear Bicycle Baskets

Rear baskets sit above or beside the rear wheel.

They affect bicycle balance less directly at the handlebars but still raise total cargo mass.

The design trade-off around rear bicycle baskets usually involves openness, stiffness, weight, durability and cleanability. More lattice reduces mass and improves airflow, while denser construction better supports small or heavy objects.

Shopping Baskets

Retail hand baskets use rigid handles and stackable bodies.

They are designed for thousands of short use cycles and rapid nesting near store entrances.

For diagnosis, trace the structural path in shopping baskets. Look for broken stakes, stretched grid cells, cracked handles, warped rims or worn bases rather than assuming the visible damage is only cosmetic.

Industrial Picking Baskets

Warehouses use plastic or wire baskets for parts handling.

Standard dimensions fit shelving, carts and conveyors while open sides aid visibility.

From a manufacturing perspective, industrial picking baskets must remain consistent across hand weaving, moulding or welding. Uneven tension, cooling shrinkage, rough wire ends and weak attachment points all influence long-term carrying performance.

Produce Baskets

Produce containers need airflow and drainage.

Open lattice reduces condensation around fruits and vegetables during transport.

In practical use, produce baskets changes with load shape, moisture, handling and storage. A basket carrying soft laundry experiences different forces from one carrying glass bottles, so structural performance must be judged with the intended contents.

Fishing Baskets

Traditional creels use ventilated woven structures.

They combine carrying with airflow and drainage in wet outdoor environments.

The design trade-off around fishing baskets usually involves openness, stiffness, weight, durability and cleanability. More lattice reduces mass and improves airflow, while denser construction better supports small or heavy objects.

Bread Baskets

Bread baskets are shallow and open.

Airflow limits condensation while wide access makes serving easy.

For diagnosis, trace the structural path in bread baskets. Look for broken stakes, stretched grid cells, cracked handles, warped rims or worn bases rather than assuming the visible damage is only cosmetic.

Storage Baskets

Household storage baskets trade visibility and ventilation against dust protection.

Labels or liners can add organisation without changing the underlying structure.

From a manufacturing perspective, storage baskets must remain consistent across hand weaving, moulding or welding. Uneven tension, cooling shrinkage, rough wire ends and weak attachment points all influence long-term carrying performance.

Basket Liners

Fabric liners prevent small items snagging or falling through.

They also protect delicate contents from rough natural fibres and make cleaning easier.

In practical use, basket liners changes with load shape, moisture, handling and storage. A basket carrying soft laundry experiences different forces from one carrying glass bottles, so structural performance must be judged with the intended contents.

Lids

Lids reduce dust and help hide stored contents.

Hinges, straps or fitted rims must accommodate slight basket flexibility without binding.

The design trade-off around lids usually involves openness, stiffness, weight, durability and cleanability. More lattice reduces mass and improves airflow, while denser construction better supports small or heavy objects.

Moisture

Natural fibres change stiffness with humidity.

Excess moisture can encourage mould, while very dry conditions can make some materials brittle.

For diagnosis, trace the structural path in moisture. Look for broken stakes, stretched grid cells, cracked handles, warped rims or worn bases rather than assuming the visible damage is only cosmetic.

Soaking Fibres

Basket makers soak willow, cane or reed before bending.

Water plasticises the plant material temporarily so it can curve without cracking.

From a manufacturing perspective, soaking fibres must remain consistent across hand weaving, moulding or welding. Uneven tension, cooling shrinkage, rough wire ends and weak attachment points all influence long-term carrying performance.

Drying Into Shape

After weaving, fibres dry and stiffen.

The finished basket retains much of the geometry imposed while the material was flexible.

In practical use, drying into shape changes with load shape, moisture, handling and storage. A basket carrying soft laundry experiences different forces from one carrying glass bottles, so structural performance must be judged with the intended contents.

Mould

Damp natural baskets can support mould growth.

Air circulation and full drying are more important than fragrance sprays for preventing recurrence.

The design trade-off around mould usually involves openness, stiffness, weight, durability and cleanability. More lattice reduces mass and improves airflow, while denser construction better supports small or heavy objects.

Insects

Natural fibres can attract insects or harbour dust and food residues.

Regular cleaning and dry storage reduce infestation risk.

For diagnosis, trace the structural path in insects. Look for broken stakes, stretched grid cells, cracked handles, warped rims or worn bases rather than assuming the visible damage is only cosmetic.

Cleaning Natural Baskets

Dry brushing or gentle wiping removes dust without saturating fibres.

Heavy soaking can loosen joints, distort shape or raise rough fibres.

From a manufacturing perspective, cleaning natural baskets must remain consistent across hand weaving, moulding or welding. Uneven tension, cooling shrinkage, rough wire ends and weak attachment points all influence long-term carrying performance.

Cleaning Plastic Baskets

Plastic grids tolerate rinsing and detergent well.

Openings make drainage easy, but corners and handle recesses can trap soil.

In practical use, cleaning plastic baskets changes with load shape, moisture, handling and storage. A basket carrying soft laundry experiences different forces from one carrying glass bottles, so structural performance must be judged with the intended contents.

Repairing Woven Baskets

Broken weavers or stakes can sometimes be replaced or spliced.

Repair is easiest when the structural path is understood and adjacent material remains sound.

The design trade-off around repairing woven baskets usually involves openness, stiffness, weight, durability and cleanability. More lattice reduces mass and improves airflow, while denser construction better supports small or heavy objects.

Repairing Handles

Handle repair must restore load transfer, not merely appearance.

Decorative wrapping over a cracked structural rod does not make a heavy basket safe.

For diagnosis, trace the structural path in repairing handles. Look for broken stakes, stretched grid cells, cracked handles, warped rims or worn bases rather than assuming the visible damage is only cosmetic.

Abrasion

Basket bases wear where they slide over floors.

Natural fibres fray while plastics become polished or thin at repeated contact points.

From a manufacturing perspective, abrasion must remain consistent across hand weaving, moulding or welding. Uneven tension, cooling shrinkage, rough wire ends and weak attachment points all influence long-term carrying performance.

UV Exposure

Sunlight degrades natural dyes and many polymers.

Outdoor baskets need UV-resistant materials or sheltered storage to avoid brittleness and fading.

In practical use, uv exposure changes with load shape, moisture, handling and storage. A basket carrying soft laundry experiences different forces from one carrying glass bottles, so structural performance must be judged with the intended contents.

Fire Behaviour

Natural fibres and many plastics are combustible.

Basket use near heat sources should consider ignition and melting, especially with thin decorative materials.

The design trade-off around fire behaviour usually involves openness, stiffness, weight, durability and cleanability. More lattice reduces mass and improves airflow, while denser construction better supports small or heavy objects.

A Worked Example: Heavy Groceries

A market basket carries bottles concentrated on one side.

The centre of mass shifts, causing the handle to rotate and the basket to tilt. Redistributing dense items lowers local wall stress and improves carrying comfort.

For diagnosis, trace the structural path in a worked example: heavy groceries. Look for broken stakes, stretched grid cells, cracked handles, warped rims or worn bases rather than assuming the visible damage is only cosmetic.

A Worked Example: Laundry Ventilation

Damp towels sit in a perforated laundry basket.

Open walls let humid air escape from multiple directions, reducing the time the textiles remain in a stagnant damp environment compared with a sealed bin.

From a manufacturing perspective, a worked example: laundry ventilation must remain consistent across hand weaving, moulding or welding. Uneven tension, cooling shrinkage, rough wire ends and weak attachment points all influence long-term carrying performance.

Common Misconceptions

A woven basket is not weak simply because it has holes, wicker is not one specific plant and thicker walls are not automatically better than well-distributed lattice structure.

Basket strength comes from geometry, material and load path working together.

In practical use, common misconceptions changes with load shape, moisture, handling and storage. A basket carrying soft laundry experiences different forces from one carrying glass bottles, so structural performance must be judged with the intended contents.

Choosing a Basket

Choose ventilation, rigidity and handle style from the contents first, then consider appearance and nesting.

Laundry, groceries, bicycle cargo and long-term storage each reward different basket structures.

The design trade-off around choosing a basket usually involves openness, stiffness, weight, durability and cleanability. More lattice reduces mass and improves airflow, while denser construction better supports small or heavy objects.

The Systems View of Baskets

A basket is a lightweight lattice container.

The strongest mental model follows load from contents through base, weave, rim and handles while tracking how gaps reduce weight and improve airflow.

For diagnosis, trace the structural path in the systems view of baskets. Look for broken stakes, stretched grid cells, cracked handles, warped rims or worn bases rather than assuming the visible damage is only cosmetic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Wicker is a weaving method, not a single material. Rattan, willow, bamboo, reed and synthetic fibres can all be woven into basket structures. Plastic baskets use moulded ribs and openings to achieve similar lightweight stiffness.

Open basket walls improve ventilation and reduce mass, but they also admit dust and may allow small objects to fall through. The right opening size depends on what the basket must carry.