A note from Jen — Where it all began. Every year I get there by canoe, or by truck over unpaved roads and straight through the rivers. These baskets take months and often years, woven from chunga palm in private dye recipes.
Ĥu hajim — thank you, from the Wounaan · ❤️ Jen at RFB Woven Art
Panama Wounaan baskets are among the most technically accomplished woven objects made anywhere in the world. Each basket is built coil by coil using split Chunga palm fiber, stitched so finely that under magnification the individual stitches resemble embroidery. In Wounmeu — the language of the Wounaan — this technique has its own name: hösig di.
A single basket can take months to over a year. The traditional quality test — a basket tight enough to hold water — reflects weeks of sustained precision. Sourced directly from Wounaan cooperatives in Panama's Darién rainforest.
Common Questions
Are these authentic Wounaan hösig di baskets?
Yes. Each is coiled from hand-split chunga palm by Wounaan weavers in Panama's Darién rainforest and sourced directly from the weavers and their cooperatives. A true hösig di is stitched tightly enough to hold water with no sealant or lining.
How long does one basket take to weave?
A finely stitched piece takes several months; the most detailed large baskets take close to a year. Master weavers pack 60 to 90 strands of chunga into every inch of coil.
Will this exact basket be restocked?
No. Every piece is one of one. Once a basket sells, it is gone and never restocked.
How fast is shipping, and how do I care for it?
Orders ship in 1–3 business days with free shipping in the continental US; returns accepted within 14 days in original condition. Dust with a soft dry cloth and keep out of direct sunlight to protect the natural dyes — see our Care & Display guide.