Guidelines for purchasing a basket:

Cane comes with variations in color from almost white (bleached or Hamburg) to light brown. These various shades are normal, but the weave itself, should be tightly packed and level with no splits or breaks.

All ribs or staves should be straight, close and even. Ribs may be of cane or various types of wood.

Splices where new pieces of cane are joined during weaving should only be minimally detectable.

The lacing around the top of the basket should be tight and well spaced.

Lids on purses or covered baskets should fit so that no spaces can be seen.

The base and lid should be smooth to the touch.

The basket maker usually signs the base of the basket.