Origins
The Nantucket basket originated in the 19th Century on
Nantucket Island in Massachusetts. Nantucket Island was then
a bustling whaling center and seaport and its treacherous
shoals were guarded by Lightships that displayed warning
beacons to arriving and departing ships. A crew’s life aboard a
Lightship was tedious and the sailors passed time by
scrimshawing and producing baskets that they sold on shore.
These baskets became to be known as “Nantucket Lightship
Baskets”.
The Nantucket basket originated in the 19th Century on
Nantucket Island in Massachusetts. Nantucket Island was then
a bustling whaling center and seaport and its treacherous
shoals were guarded by Lightships that displayed warning
beacons to arriving and departing ships. A crew’s life aboard a
Lightship was tedious and the sailors passed time by
scrimshawing and producing baskets that they sold on shore.
These baskets became to be known as “Nantucket Lightship
Baskets”.
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North Star Nantucket Baskets
Set of six nesting baskets (3"-8")
The tradition of the Nantucket basket is kept alive by Ken
and Joyce Sipes with their interpretation of this celebrated
American basket. The symmetry, delicate appearance and
tight weaving belie the strength and durability of this classic
basket. By producing the wooden bases, handles, lids and
rims in their studio they control the look and grain patterns of
the wood elements of the baskets. Both Ken and Joyce are
proud to present their work at various craft shows and
venues throughout the year.
and Joyce Sipes with their interpretation of this celebrated
American basket. The symmetry, delicate appearance and
tight weaving belie the strength and durability of this classic
basket. By producing the wooden bases, handles, lids and
rims in their studio they control the look and grain patterns of
the wood elements of the baskets. Both Ken and Joyce are
proud to present their work at various craft shows and
venues throughout the year.
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What makes a Nantucket Basket?
Nantucket baskets are characterized by cane
or wooden staves and cane weavers. Cane
was introduced as a basket making material
from the whaling industry’s excursions to the
Far East. The baskets are made on a wooden
mold and the staves are fitted into a slotted
wooden base. Rims are pinned and lashed
with cane. Cherry, oak, ash and walnut are
woods that are commonly used for bases,
handles and lids. The baskets are finished
with shellac or varnish. Nantucket baskets
are very collectable and come in a variety of
sizes and shapes.
Walnut and Cherry Lidded Baskets
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