Basket Weaving Kits for Adults: Which Kit Should You Start With?
So you have decided to try basket weaving. Good choice. It is a calm, absorbing craft that people around the world have practised for thousands of years, and it rewards you with something genuinely useful at the end. The hardest part is often knowing where to begin. In this guide, we compare our beginner basketry kits by the time each one takes and the level of experience it suits, so you can choose the right first project with confidence.
What is included in a beginner basketry kit?
Every WonderWeaver basket weaving kit for adults includes all the materials you need, so there is nothing extra to buy. Most of our beginner kits include pre-cut natural rattan cane, a pre-drilled wooden base and a step-by-step instruction booklet. For most kits, the only thing you add is a bowl of water to soak the cane. All of our kits are designed and packed by hand in the UK, and if you get stuck, our email support is always there to help.
Our beginner kits compared
Here is a quick comparison of our beginner kits, based on the time and age guidance stated on each product page.
| Kit | Level | Time to complete | Suggested age |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rattan Coaster DIY Kit (makes 4) | Beginner, ideal first project | 3 to 5 hours in total (45 minutes to 1 hour per coaster) | 12+ |
| Rattan Pencil Holder DIY Kit | Beginner | 2 to 3 hours | 12+ |
| Small Round Rattan Basket DIY Kit | Beginner | 3 to 5 hours | 12+ |
| Rattan Bread Basket DIY Kit | Complete beginner | 3 to 5 hours | 14+ |
| Woven Rattan Tea Tray DIY Kit | Beginner | 3 to 5 hours | 14+ |
| Medium Round Rattan Basket DIY Kit | Beginner | 4 to 6 hours | 12+ |
Which kit should you start with?
If you want a quick, satisfying first project
Choose the Rattan Pencil Holder or the Rattan Coaster kit. The pencil holder takes around 2 to 3 hours and makes a beautiful desk accessory that also works as a makeup brush holder or small planter. The coaster kit makes four coasters, and because each one takes under an hour, you get to practise the same techniques several times. That repetition is one of the best ways to build confidence as a new weaver.
If you want to make a proper basket
The Small Round Rattan Basket is a classic first basket. It takes around 3 to 5 hours, which you can do in one sitting or spread over a weekend, and the finished basket works as a planter, fruit bowl or keepsake holder. The Rattan Bread Basket is designed specifically for people who have never woven before, and makes a basket of approximately 28cm diameter and 8cm deep, the right size for a standard loaf.
If you would like something a little different
The Woven Rattan Tea Tray has a rectangular form, which introduces a slightly different weaving challenge from round baskets. That makes it a distinctive first project for anyone who loves functional homeware, or an interesting second project after a round kit.
If you want a bigger beginner project
The Medium Round Rattan Basket is just as beginner-friendly as the small version, but makes a generously sized basket for fruit, bread, toys or general storage. It takes around 4 to 6 hours, so it is ideal as a weekend project.
Tips for your first basket
- Soak the cane first. A bowl of water to soak the cane is the only thing most kits need you to add.
- Do not worry about mistakes. Rattan is forgiving, and most mistakes can be unpicked and redone.
- Take breaks. Most of our beginner kits can be spread over several sittings, so there is no need to rush.
- Trim carefully. Rattan ends can be sharp when trimmed, so adult supervision is advised for younger crafters.
Your next steps after your first kit
Once you have finished a beginner kit or two, you will be ready for something more challenging. These two intermediate kits are the natural next steps.
Rattan Bead Tray DIY Kit
The Rattan Bead Tray introduces decorative weaving patterns, finer cane work and a more refined finishing technique. It takes around 5 to 7 hours, is suggested for ages 16+, and is best attempted after at least one beginner kit, such as the Bread Basket, Small Round Basket or Medium Round Basket.
Rattan Waste & Plant Basket DIY Kit
The Rattan Waste & Plant Basket is larger than our beginner kits, at approximately 28cm tall and 24cm in diameter. It takes around 5 to 8 hours and works beautifully as a waste basket or a plant pot holder. It is ideal if you have already completed one of our beginner kits, although patient, confident beginners will also do well.
Save when you buy more than one
Planning your first project and your next one at the same time? Buy any 3 kits to save 10%, or 4 or more to save 15%. The discount is applied automatically in your basket, and UK delivery is free on orders over £50. Browse our full range of DIY basketry kits for beginners and intermediates to find your perfect first project.