About the baskets
Little known fact about the baskets!! The majority of the styles we have are made of palm leaf harvested in the Atlas Mountains.
Often the baskets are thought to be made of straw, grass or wicker, however they are woven from a sustainably harvested palm leaf (see pictured) that grows naturally in the Atlas Mountain not far from Fez. The palm leaf is harvested in July, dried for a short time and then the weaving begins. The palm leaf is distributed to a large network of households where the basic style baskets are hand made. It takes a day and half to weave a classic basket. Once the baskets have been woven, they are collected en masse and taken to the depots where all the embellishments are added. Leather handles, bling stars etc. I have been working with the the network of weavers for over 11 years now and make my collection out of the 1000’s of possible styles and variations. blending ideas from Australia and the traditional know how from Morocco.
Frequently asked questions about the baskets:
Are they very strong? The palm leaf as a fibre is naturally strong and quite elastic which is why it is used to weave baskets and other items. The Moroccans and French have used these baskets for many generations to carry their shopping. In my experience they can carry more than we can.
Can they get wet? Yes they can, in fact from time to time it is good for the basket to become damp or wet. As a natural fibre they can dry out over time and crack. Using them for your beach bag or the washing is a great way to rehumidify the palm leaf for a longer life. Just don’t forget those swimmers though!
What do I do if my basket gets dirty? The baskets wash quite easily. Mix up some warm water with a gentle soap and gently scrub with a soft brush.
Air dry immediately in the sun if possible. Good as new.
Basket of the Month
One of our most classic and enduring baskets – short handle leather trim. This basket is part of the series of baskets – double strap handle, long leather handle that are our simple in construction but strong and suitable for every day living. The short handle style is seen everywhere in France – so shop like a Parisienne!
Markets for June
The Market at EQ, now run by the gals from Cambridge Markets, is on every Wednesday and Saturday from 8am to 2pm in the Showring at the Entertainment Quarter. Find us for our extensive selection of market baskets, French linens, woven raffia hats, St James tee shirts and gourmet French food – pates, duck confit, cassoulet, mustards and cornichons.
News flash – No market Saturday 30 June at EQ market due to a large event on the site.
This market is on every Saturday morning from 8am to 1pm. Find 2 duck there on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month. This month that is 9th and 23rd June for all our great baskets, weekly specials and our range of sustainable products to help you with your shopping.
PS: Bonus day Saturday 30th June as well plus an EOFY sale too! Happy days.
The Produce market is on 1st and 3rd Saturday of the month, 2 duck can be found on the 3rd Saturday of every month – it is 16th June for this month. For baskets, specials, sustainable shopping bags and some lovely French linens.
See you at the markets.
2 duck trading co
Find us every Wednesday and Saturday at Cambridge market EQ in the Showring at the Entertainment Quarter. From 8-2pm.
For March we will be at Carriageworks Saturdays 2nd, 9th and 23rd from 8-1pm. One extra one making up for being away in February.
Our Northside day will be 16th March from 8am to midday. Loads of baskets, linens, sustainable bags and more..
