Moroccan Straw Bags & Baskets
A Long Weaving Tradition
Basketry is one of Morocco's oldest crafts, with artisans weaving palm leaf, reed and grasses into baskets, bags, mats and storage pieces. The skill is passed down through families, often among women.
Today Moroccan straw bags have become a global fashion favourite, sold from village souks to international boutiques, prized for their natural, handmade look.
Materials and Weaving
The most common material is doum palm leaf, which is dried, sometimes dyed, and woven into sturdy baskets. Raffia and reed are also used for finer or softer pieces.
Weaving is done entirely by hand, and the tightness and evenness of the weave indicate quality. Pieces may be left natural or decorated with dyed fibres, leather and tassels.
Popular Styles
The classic Moroccan basket bag features a round or oval woven body with leather handles, often adorned with colourful pom-poms, tassels or embroidery. Plain natural baskets are also popular.
Larger baskets serve as laundry hampers, storage and market bags, while smaller versions work as handbags and beach totes. Customisation, such as added leather straps, is common.
Where to Buy
Marrakech's souks offer the widest variety, and the seaside town of Essaouira is also known for basketwork. Rural cooperatives and weekly markets near production areas can offer better value.
Buying directly from artisans or cooperatives supports the craft and often yields more authentic, durable pieces than mass-market stalls.
Judging Quality and Price
Check that the weave is tight and even, the base is sturdy, and any leather handles are well stitched rather than glued. Loose, gappy weaving signals lower quality.
Prices depend on size, weave fineness and decoration. Plain baskets are inexpensive, while embellished designer-style bags cost more. Bargaining is expected in the souks.
Care and Longevity
Keep straw bags dry, as moisture weakens natural fibres and can cause mould. Dust them out and spot-clean with a barely damp cloth rather than washing.
Reshape baskets by hand and store them stuffed with paper to hold their form. With care, a well-made palm-leaf basket lasts for years.
| Material | Characteristic |
|---|---|
| Doum palm leaf | Sturdy, most common |
| Raffia | Softer, finer weave |
| Reed | Firm, structured |
| Leather trim | Handles and straps |
Moroccan basket and bag materials
FAQ
What are Moroccan straw bags made of?
Most are hand-woven from doum palm leaf, with raffia and reed also used, and are often finished with leather handles and decorative pom-poms.
Where is the best place to buy them?
Marrakech's souks have the widest selection, while Essaouira and rural cooperatives near production areas can offer authentic pieces at better value.
How do I keep a straw basket in good condition?
Keep it dry to avoid mould, dust it out, spot-clean with a barely damp cloth, and store it stuffed with paper to hold its shape.
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