5 Places Where You Can Buy Beautiful Baskets
More than just a part of our décor, these must-haves can be used as storage, too
It’s safe to say that baskets have become staples in many homes. Aside from being a captivating piece that can stand alone as décor, a basket also comes in handy as a catchall, as a planter, and as a practical storage piece. In my home, you can see tons of baskets used in different ways. Two or more baskets with colorful accents can liven up a shelf, while big ones can help keep the toys of my kids in place. If you also can’t get enough of these pretty and functional must-haves, I’ve got tips on where you can score lovely and affordable baskets. Check them out below:
1. Dapitan Arcade
On top of my list is the go-to Dapitan Arcade where you can find hundreds of home essentials. A basket depot, Dapitan offers baskets in different sizes and styles—you just need to dig and have patience. There are many vendors selling baskets, have a look around until you find a shop you like the most. While going from one shop to another, take note of the price points of each so you’ll know where to get the most affordable baskets.
Dapitan Arcade is located at #39 Dapitan corner Kanlaon St., Barangay Sta. Teresita, Quezon City
READ: The Ultimate Dapitan Arcade Shopping Guide
2. Tiendesitas
Like Dapitan Arcade, Tiendesitas houses different shops offering various goods and items for the home. Make sure you visit the Home section on the second floor, near the elevator entrance and back wall. There are a number of choices you can check out, but my personal favorite is Magayon Handmade where you can shop for baskets in different sizes—some even have handles you can use as hampers or planters for your favorite houseplants. To see more of Magayon Handmade’s products, follow them on Instagram.
Magayon Handmade is located at Tiendesitas, Ortigas Avenue corner E. Rodriguez Avenue (C5), Metro Manila.
3. Salcedo and SIDCOR Markets
Weekend markets are fun, teeming with life, and can be considered as treasure troves. Aside from spotting gems and delicious food, you’re guaranteed to discover pretty baskets, too. My favorite is a small stall that sells baskets made from abaca. These aren’t the cheapest, but it’s still affordable. I have yet to find another vendor (besides Magayon Handmade) who has the selection they have.
The Salcedo Saturday Market takes place at the Jaime Velasquez Park, Salcedo Village, Makati City while the SIDCOR Sunday Market happens at EDSA corner Quezon Avenue, Diliman, Eton Centris Walk Parking Lot, Quezon City.
4. Kultura
For all things Filipino—from gifts and clothing, to food and souvenirs—Kultura is your go-to store. The best part? They have baskets you can use around the home, too! Be on the lookout for small ones you can use as catchalls and big ones that can be used when storing shoes, magazines, and other belongings.
Click here to see a list of Kultura branches. You can also follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
5. Your neighborhood palengke / dry market
Never underestimate the things you can find in your neighborhood palengke or dry market. I’ve found some of my best baskets there and they are always the cheapest. I often buy the chicken basket or qubi and I use it for everything. My preferred dry market is the Marikina Dry Market, but schedule a visit to your palengke to see what they have to offer.
Amber Smith Folkman is one of RL's Style Spotters. She's the lady behind A Momma Abroad, a blog that chronicles her life in the Philippines. Visit her website for DIY ideas, shopping tips, and other fun, interesting topics. Click here to see photos of her home.
