Basket Weaving

One of the beauties of handicrafts lies in their practicality. It's undeniable that humans have created everything out of necessity, and among these creations, making a lightweight, functional, and portable container has been crucial for Iranians, who often moved between summer and winter pastures. Basket weaving has been a tradition for thousands of years, with South Khorasan recognized as a significant center for producing such crafts. The baskets from South Khorasan are known for their strength and reliability, and they have been exported to various parts of the country. Today, this art is gradually being forgotten, yet it still holds a special place as a souvenir.
This type of craft, due to its lightweight and durability, has outpaced other industries in making baskets, tables, chairs, cabinets, and TV stands. One of the challenges of this craft is its seasonal nature; production occurs mainly during a few seasons, with the least amount of production in summer when most producers are busy with farming. Basket weaving is known by different names in various provinces of Iran, and in Khorasan, it is referred to as "Pakhleh weaving."

Pakhleh Weaving

The weaving of straw baskets in South Khorasan, Iran, is known as Pakhleh weaving. In the local dialect, it is also referred to as Pakhle, Shalmeh, Sofal, and Sofleh Gandom. In many cities and villages of South Khorasan, including Qaynat, Sarayan, Tabas, and Bashruyeh, where wheat is widely cultivated, Pakhleh weaving is practiced, producing various types of baskets, decorative vases, and pot holders. 
The weaving of Pakhleh is quite simple and is often done in a triangular shape. The color of Pakhleh is usually a simple golden hue, resembling the color of wheat stalks. However, in some cases and regions, artists create colorful and diverse patterns by wrapping colored wool threads around the wheat stalks.
During the wheat harvest season, the availability of wheat stalks increases production, but Pakhleh weaving is also done in other seasons and has its enthusiasts.

This art was added to the list of national heritage sites in Iran in 2017. While Pakhleh weaving is an ancient and historical craft, it is gradually being forgotten and is primarily purchased as a souvenir. If you plan to visit Iran, particularly South Khorasan, we hope you will visit Pakhleh weaving workshops and handicraft stores to find a special souvenir for your loved ones. The Sana Persian team looks forward to seeing you and helping you find Pakhleh weaving souvenirs for yourself and your dear ones. We hope to meet you very soon!