When it comes to finding the perfect gift for decor lovers, Handmade African gifts stand in a league of their own. With their unique blend of artistry, tradition, and cultural depth, these pieces are both exceptionally beautiful and filled with history. From striking handcrafted decor to meaningful keepsakes, we’ve rounded up some of the most extraordinary finds that will leave a lasting impression on anyone with an eye for design.
Our Top Handmade African Gifts for Home Decor Lovers
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Handwoven Artisan Baskets
Basket weaving is an ancient craft practiced across Africa, where skilled artisans—primarily women—use time-honored techniques passed down through generations. By working with diverse natural fibers and dyes, they create pieces that are both functional and decorative. These handcrafted baskets make perfect gifts for home decor lovers who appreciate a natural, organic aesthetic.
The Woven Hut, £65.00 (around $85)
First up is this stunning lidded basket, handcrafted in Malawi from local mulaza palm leaves and finished with an elegant mahogany handle. Its versatile design and moderate size make it a seamless addition to any room. Whether storing essentials in the living room, table linens in the dining room, or toiletries in the bathroom, it’s the perfect blend of chic and functional.
Expedition Subsahara, $89.00
Next is a handwoven bowl from Senegal, crafted using local elephant grass and cleverly recycled plastic. Its blue, white, and yellow hues bring vibrancy to any room, ideal for those who love adding a pop of color to their home.
La Basketry, $21.00
Furthermore, if your recipient is curious and crafty, what could be better than teaching them the art of weaving? Baskets by Senegalese author Tabara N’Diaye is a beautiful guide that does just that. Through captivating stories and inspiring examples, N’Diaye shows readers how to create baskets that match their specific needs and style. It’s a fun, engaging way to bring even the most imaginative decor ideas to life.
Kusuka, €1,565.00 (around $1,734)
Finally, we present a truly unique gift idea: tokenized African art baskets. This groundbreaking concept by the Kenyan brand Kusuka combines the timeless tradition of basket weaving with cutting-edge NFT technology. It’s a remarkable way to give your loved one something entirely new and unexpected. Our top pick, the Orchard Abstraction, is a vibrant orange basket handmade in Ghana. Its distinctive gourd shape and swirling spiral design are sure to captivate your eye for hours on end.
As we wrap up our basket selection and move on to other decor items, we hope these handwoven treasures have provided you with plenty of inspiring gift ideas, each imbued with heritage.
Discover more African baskets with our guide to 11 Top Brands for Stunning African Wall Baskets.
One-of-a-Kind African Decor Gems
Our next gift ideas showcase exclusive items, all 100% crafted in Africa. Perfect for decor enthusiasts who appreciate a cozy ambiance, these pieces blend warmth and style seamlessly. Each of them has a unique charm, adding sophistication and a hint of je-ne-sais-quoi to any room.
People of the Sun, €49.00 a piece (around $55)
We begin with these eye-catching jars, perfect for the discerning collector. Handcrafted in Malawi from upcycled wine bottles and adorned with modern mahogany lids, they combine simplicity with an intriguing charm. They can be used as stylish storage solutions for your bathroom or kitchen, or simply as elegant decor accents.
54Kibo, $128
Our next gift idea is a classic among decor items: the exquisite candle. Elevate your gift-giving with this handcrafted beauty from Morocco. Its chic black design with golden accents exudes sophistication, while the rich oud scent enhances any space. Plus, it comes as a set with a matching diffuser, perfect to extend the sensorial experience to other rooms of your home.
Kanju, $128.00
Another favorite is these light stone crochet pots with a distinctive design. Hailing from South Africa, these charming pieces are as eco-friendly as they are stylish. Made from recycled paper and natural fibers, they offer an authentic handcrafted touch that will surely delight your recipient.
Something Good Studio, R4,950.00 (around $276)
Finally, we are enchanted by this striking blanket, a true South African gem. Created by The Urbanative, a local studio renowned for its storytelling through innovative designs, this blanket features modern geometric patterns on a soft cotton canvas. The result is a perfect blend of cozy comfort and contemporary style, a cool gift idea for any fortunate recipient.
We hope these unique decor items have sparked your imagination. Next, we’ll delve into African objects showcasing the craftsmanship and creativity that define the continent’s artistic heritage.
African Objects That Wow
Africa’s ancient traditions bring us extraordinary objects that are both stunning and steeped in history. Below, we invite you to explore three of these exceptional finds that serve as remarkable gifts, each embodying the rich cultural depth of the continent.
Hope Artisan Collective, $288.00
To start, we showcase a truly one-of-a-kind piece: a Solitaire game from Madagascar. This item serves as both a stunning decorative object and an engaging game. Each element, from the sandalwood board to the thirty semi-precious moonstone spheres, was meticulously hand-carved locally. An enchanting find for collectors and a delightful challenge for those with an adventurous game spirit.
Khayni, $519.00
Continuing our journey through remarkable objects, we’re drawn to this vintage Mangbetu pot. It holds a deep significance for the Mangbetu people of the Congo and was used in their everyday life. This ceramic wonder will effortlessly become the room’s focal point, inviting rich conversations and adding a touch of historical beauty. A great gift for culture lovers.
As’art, €350.00 (around $388)
And to wrap up this selection of extraordinary items, we present a large, spoon-shaped wooden piece from the Democratic Republic of Congo. This intriguing object crafted by the Mongo people—the largest ethnic group in the country—was used to scoop water from pirogues to ensure safety and maintain lightness. Its unique form piques curiosity and stands as a remarkable 20th-century masterpiece.
These three unique items highlight the incredible artistry and cultural legacy found across the continent. Perfect gifts for those who appreciate beauty and heritage.
For more cultural treasures, discover our 9 curated African Mask options.
Handmade African gifts offer something truly special
Each one is a reflection of rich traditions and timeless craftsmanship. Whether it’s an eye-catching decor piece or a functional work of art, these gifts carry the spirit of Africa’s diverse cultures, making them unforgettable presents for decor enthusiasts.
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