Korinvetäjä

Korinvetäjä is a Finnish term that translates to "basket weaver" or "basket maker." It refers to an individual who creates baskets using traditional or modern techniques. The craft of basket weaving has a long history across various cultures, and in Finland, it has been an important part of everyday life and traditional handicrafts.

Baskets are typically made from natural materials such as willow, birch bark, reeds, straw, or pine needles. The process involves selecting, preparing, and manipulating these materials to form the desired shape and structure. This often includes soaking materials to make them pliable, splitting them into strips, and then interlacing or coiling them.

Korinvetäjät can specialize in different types of baskets, ranging from functional items like laundry baskets, fishing creels, and storage containers to more decorative or specialized pieces. The skills involved require dexterity, patience, and an understanding of the properties of the chosen materials.

In contemporary Finland, basket weaving is maintained as a handicraft tradition. Some korinvetäjät continue to produce traditional items, while others adapt the craft to create contemporary designs and art pieces. Educational workshops and courses are available to teach the skills of basket weaving, ensuring the continuation of this traditional art form. The practice is often associated with a connection to nature and a respect for traditional craftsmanship.