The Art of Bangladeshi Canework

This week, I would love to tell you a bit about one of my partners from Bangladesh that offers all things made of cane. Traditionally, cane artisans in Bangladesh produced household items like baskets for carrying rice or other agricultural products. It was a skill passed down from mother to child, especially within the country’s Hindu communities. In recent years, however, plastic has slowly crept into the market, competing with natural fiber basketry.

Local markets alone are no longer enough to keep the industry alive. Due to tough economic situations, some of the artists have shifted their profession but my partner still employs 50-60 cane producers, providing full-time salaries in an area of the country with few other economic opportunities. They also offer skill enhancement training, product development and design, along with quality control training to their team of artisans.

Each piece is carefully made by hand with only a knife. There’s an incredible level of craftsmanship and attention to detail that comes from that level of manual production. The products are 100% natural, eco-friendly, biodegradable and Fair Trade certified. Plus, every purchase goes back to supporting these artists directly, helping their children go to school and strengthening an iconic local tradition that’s struggling to survive into the future.

Please be in touch to view their full catalog. This partner offers custom can products and has another beautiful line of terracotta pieces if that’s of interest.