Basket Making in Rwanda

Sisal is harvested and the leaves are separated. A single leaf is then taken, pounded, and split. The fibers are then combed from the flattened leaf. The artisans protect their skin while working with sisal. The artisans work together, as one person holds the leaf another rakes through it. The outer leaves are then scraped away, leaving a white fiber. The useful fiber only accounts for 4% of the plant's weight. The fiber is then washed, dried, and twisted. Depending on the desired size of the basket coils, and needle will be used. The last photo shows the beautiful finished product.