For over a quarter of a century, Designer Baskets have been valued for their extraordinary design and craftsmanship. Their creator, Derek Downing, began crafting his unique baskets while in high school. He has since exhibited his work at major craft and trade shows throughout the nation, and become acclaimed as one of those rare individuals who has elevated craft to an art form.His designs are based on the traditional egg-basket form; however each has about it a contemporary quality. Most are crafted of grapevine, hand-dyed rattan and sea grass, an unusual material for woven baskets, and an aromatic one. The basket handles forged from grapevine allow the tendrils to dictate the basket’s overall shape. The vibrant colors of his baskets are frequently inspired by trends in fashion and home furnishings. Most colors are produced from commercial textile dyes, many of which Derek creates himself. Once completed, each basket is signed and dated by the artist.