Meet the Maker: Tabara N’Diaye

Our exhibition Voices of Resistance tells the stories of coal workers who, basket by basket, fuelled postal steam ships travelling between the UK and the Caribbean.

We worked with Tabara and the Caribbean Social Forum to celebrate the art of basket weaving.

Hi Tabara! Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your work? 

Hi there! I’m Tabara N’Diaye, founder of La Basketry, a brand celebrating the art of basket weaving. We offer beautifully crafted homeware, accessories, and craft kits to help people explore the craft for themselves.

I’m also the author of two books on basket weaving – Baskets (2019) and Woven (2024).

I regularly host workshops for individuals and businesses seeking to introduce mindfulness through crafting and collaborate on creative projects with various brands.

What inspired you to set up La Basketry? 

I founded La Basketry in 2017 as a way to reconnect with my Senegalese roots and celebrate the incredible craftsmanship I’ve always admired. Though my parents were born and raised in Senegal, I grew up in Paris (France) and I longed for a deeper connection to my heritage.

Basket weaving, in particular, stood out to me – in Senegal, it’s a craft passed down through generations of women in rural villages. 

Ultimately, I wanted to start the business as a way to reconnect with my heritage, celebrate this timeless craft, and shine a light on its beauty and cultural significance.

What is the significance of basket weaving to Senegalese women?  

Beyond being a skill, basket weaving is a way for women to come together, gathering in courtyards to weave, share stories, and nurture a strong sense of community. 

Basket-weaving also serves as an important source of income, finished baskets are transported to nearby cities, towns, and markets, where they are sold at roadside stalls or local shops. This provides women with financial independence while ensuring that this centuries-old craft continues to thrive.

Can you talk us through the process of weaving a basket? How long does it take? 

Weaving a basket is a step-by-step process that varies depending on the technique, materials, and complexity of the design. All baskets are built from the bottom up, beginning with a sturdy base before gradually shaping the sides. The materials used play a key role in the process – here in the UK, willow and cane (rattan) are commonly used, while I often work with raffia, grasses, rope, and different types of string for stitching.

The weaving itself involves intertwining a core material for structure with a binding material to hold everything together. There are multiple techniques to explore, each offering a unique texture and pattern.

As for how long it takes – there’s no one-size-fits-all answer! A simple, small basket can be completed in a few hours, while more intricate designs may take days or even weeks. But what I always encourage is to embrace the process. Basket weaving isn’t just about the final product – it’s about slowing down, being present, and enjoying the creativity that comes with it.

As part of our new exhibition Voices of Resistance, you have been running basket weaving workshops with the Caribbean Social Forum. Can you talk us through the collaboration and the work you have been doing with the community group?  

This has been an incredible project to be part of, and I feel truly privileged to have worked with the community group through a series of four workshops. 

The first project was a collaborative effort to create a representative basket inspired by the traditional baskets used by coal workers in St. Thomas during the 19th century. Using Buff Willow, we worked collectively to weave this piece, mirroring the communal spirit of the workers who once relied on these baskets in their daily lives. It was a true group effort, with everyone contributing to the “building” of the basket, making it a powerful symbol of shared labour and craftsmanship.

The second project was more personal, allowing each participant to weave their own smaller basket using dyed centre cane in a vibrant colour palette inspired by the region. This part of the workshop encouraged self-expression, giving individuals the freedom to experiment with colours, shapes and patterns. 

What made this collaboration so special was the opportunity to connect with the community group on a deeper level – sharing stories, learning from one another, and creating something meaningful together. These are the kinds of projects I thrive on, where craft becomes more than just a skill and it becomes a bridge for storytelling, heritage, and community.

How do you want people to feel when they see your woven goods, or make one of your woven items? 

If they are joining a class or making a piece, I want them to experience joy and mindfulness in the process. Basket weaving is about slowing down, being present, and embracing the rhythm of the craft. 

Overall, I would say I want people to feel inspired – whether to explore a new skill, reconnect with their roots, or simply find beauty in the handmade.

What role do you think basket weaving plays in society today?   

Traditionally, it has been a functional craft but now, it’s also recognised as a powerful tool for creativity, sustainability, and mindfulness.

For me, basket weaving is about more than just making beautiful, functional objects. It’s a way to honour heritage, preserve craftsmanship, and foster a sense of connection. In a fast-paced, digital world, weaving offers a chance to slow down, work with our hands, and engage in something truly meditative.

I also love how it’s a craft (like many others) that continues to bring people together through storytelling, skill-sharing, or community workshops like we’ve done with this project. 

A selection of Tabara’s works are now available in our online shop.