August Moon Basketry: Where to Find Hand-Woven Baskets and Supplies in South Carolina
What August Moon Basketry offers and where to find it
August Moon Basketry is a South Carolina–based maker and supplier of hand-woven baskets and basketry materials. The business sells finished baskets in various styles and sizes, along with supplies for people who want to weave their own—including reed, cane, dyes, and tools. You can purchase directly from their studio or through select retailers across the state who stock their work.
The baskets themselves range from small decorative pieces to larger functional storage and serving baskets, many made using traditional techniques. If you're looking to start basketry as a craft, August Moon also carries starter kits and individual materials organized by weaving style and skill level.
Key Takeaways
- August Moon Basketry sells both finished hand-woven baskets and raw materials for your own weaving projects.
- You can buy directly from their studio location or through partner retailers throughout South Carolina.
- They stock reed, cane, dyes, tools, and beginner kits for people new to basketry.
- Finished baskets work as functional storage, serving pieces, or home décor with handmade character.
- Basketry supplies from August Moon support both hobbyists and people developing basketry as a serious craft.
Finding August Moon Basketry's studio and contact information
August Moon Basketry operates from a studio location in South Carolina where you can visit in person to see baskets and materials firsthand. Visiting the studio lets you handle different weaving styles, ask questions about materials, and get recommendations based on your skill level or project idea.
Before making the trip, contact them directly to confirm hours and whether they have specific items in stock. You can also ask about custom orders or special requests—many basketry makers will work with you on size, color, or style if you give them lead time.
Finished baskets for home and gift-giving
August Moon's finished baskets work as functional pieces or decorative objects. A woven basket can hold blankets or magazines in a living room, store produce on a kitchen counter, or sit on a shelf as a visual accent. The handmade quality means each piece has slight variations in weave pattern and color, which adds character rather than detracting from it.
If you're shopping for a gift, a hand-woven basket from a local maker carries more weight than a mass-produced alternative. The recipient gets something useful, something made by hand in South Carolina, and something that will last years with basic care. Prices vary by size and complexity, so you can find pieces at different price points.
Basketry materials and supplies for weavers
If you want to weave your own baskets, August Moon stocks the core materials you'll need: reed in various widths and weights, cane for different weaving styles, and natural or dyed fibers. They also carry tools like shears, bone folders, and measuring guides that make the work easier and more precise.
Dyes and stains let you customize the color of your finished piece. August Moon carries both natural dyes and synthetic options, so you can match your project to existing décor or experiment with color combinations. Having materials from one source means you know they're compatible and the staff can advise on which combinations work well together.
Beginner kits and learning basketry
August Moon offers starter kits designed for people new to basketry. These kits typically include pre-cut materials, basic tools, and instructions for a specific project—often a small basket or placemat that teaches fundamental weaving techniques without overwhelming a beginner.
Starting with a kit removes the guesswork of buying individual materials and helps you learn whether basketry is a craft you want to pursue further. Once you've completed a kit project, you'll understand which weaving styles appeal to you and what materials you prefer, making it easier to plan your next project with loose supplies.
Basketry as a craft and cultural practice in South Carolina
Basketry has deep roots in South Carolina, particularly in the Lowcountry, where sweetgrass basket weaving represents centuries of African American cultural tradition. While August Moon's work may use different materials and styles, supporting local basketry makers keeps the craft alive and visible in the state.
Learning to weave baskets yourself connects you to a practice that spans cultures and centuries. Whether you're drawn to the meditative rhythm of weaving, the satisfaction of making something functional with your hands, or simply the beauty of the finished object, basketry offers a craft that rewards both beginners and experienced makers.
Caring for woven baskets
Hand-woven baskets last longer when kept away from direct sunlight, which can fade natural fibers and dyes over time. Dust them occasionally with a soft brush or cloth. If a basket gets wet, let it air-dry completely to prevent mold or mildew, and avoid storing them in damp spaces like basements.
Minor damage—a loose strand or small split—can often be repaired by hand or by taking the basket back to the maker. August Moon may offer repair services or guidance on fixing common wear, so ask when you purchase a finished piece.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need experience to buy materials from August Moon?
No. August Moon sells materials for all skill levels, from complete beginners to experienced weavers. If you're new to basketry, start with a beginner kit or ask the staff which materials and projects they recommend for someone just starting out.
Can I order baskets online or by phone?
Contact August Moon directly to ask about mail orders or phone purchases. Many small makers will take orders this way, though shipping costs and timing vary depending on what you're ordering and where you live in South Carolina.
What's the difference between reed and cane?
Reed is made from the inner core of rattan and is lighter and more flexible, often used for finer weaving. Cane is the outer layer of rattan and is stiffer and stronger, better for structural baskets or projects that need durability. August Moon staff can recommend which material suits your project.
How long does it take to weave a basket?
A small beginner basket might take a few hours to a day. Larger or more complex baskets can take several days or weeks, depending on size, weave pattern, and how much time you spend on it. Your first project will take longer as you learn the techniques.
Are August Moon baskets washable?
Most hand-woven baskets should not go in the dishwasher or washing machine. You can spot-clean them with a damp cloth and mild soap if needed, then air-dry completely. Ask about the specific basket's materials and finish when you purchase to know the best care method.