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How to Tell a Longaberger Basket

The Longaberger basket has a long tradition of excellence, dating to 1919, when the original owner, J.W. Longaberger, took a job at the Dresden Basket Co., where he learned his craft. Today, the Longaberger Co., based in Newark, Ohio, still makes handcrafted baskets. Because Longabergers are prized by collectors, fakes have entered the market. There are some tell-tale signs to determine if a basket is an original Longaberger or a knock-off.

Instructions

- 1
  Look at the bottom of the basket. There should be a logo burned into the bottom that reads Longaberger or Longaberger Baskets; Dresden, OH or Dresden, OH USA (The baskets are made in Dresden, Ohio). A basket older than 1982 may be missing the logo, and baskets woven by J.W. Longaberger himself will not be signed. In 2000, a special logo was created, which reads 2000 Century Celebration.
- 2
  Look inside the basket for a stamp of authenticity. The stamp should read "Made in Dresden, Ohio."
- 3
  Look for the weaver's initials, along with the date the basket was made, somewhere on the basket.
- 4
  Check the basket's materials. Longaberger splints are made only of maple, and the handles may be made from oak. The splints should be tightly woven.
- 5
  Check the basket's composition. Swinging handles are joined to the basket by the use of copper rivets. The splints are joined to the rim of the basket by the use of tiny tacks, sometimes in the shape of a star or a heart. Stationary handles and leather hinges are joined to the basket by three small tacks.
- 6
  Take or ship the basket to the Longaberger Co. for authentication.

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