Willow splitter

In the 19th and early 20th centuries, many woven objects were made by basket makers. This craftsman performed an essential trade that was important for everyday life. He produced numerous useful and indispensable items from willow or other plant materials: baskets, trunks, backpacks, beehives, bottle holders, and more.

One of the tools used by the basket maker to create all these items was the willow splitter, a small wooden implement ending in three grooves. This tool allowed him to divide a willow rod into three strands. First, he made small cuts in the rod with a knife. Then he held the rod with one hand while running the tool along the cuts with the other hand to separate it into three strands.