Birch Bark Strips — Wicker Material from the Depths of Centuries

Description

• Material: birch bark

• Width: varies — you can check the specific width when placing your order (please contact us via email for details)

• Length: up to 80 cm

• Width: up to 2.5 cm

• Thickness: 1 mm

• Processing: peeled

The material is fully ready for weaving

Properties of Birch Bark Strips

• Eco-friendliness

Birch bark is a completely natural material, got without harming the tree. Only the outer layer of the bark of mature birch trees is removed, while the tree continues to grow and does not die. Unlike plastics and synthetics, birch bark does not release toxic substances, is safe for allergy sufferers, and is fully biodegradable, leaving no waste behind.

• Durability

Thanks to its high content of natural resins and tannins, birch bark is resistant to biological degradation. It does not harbour mould, fungus, or wood-boring insects. Birch bark artefacts found in archaeological excavations have survived for centuries — the best proof that this material is built to last for decades of active use.

• Lightness and flexibility while maintaining strength

Despite being lightweight, birch bark strips have high tensile strength. When soaked, the strip becomes flexible and allows for complex weaving, and after drying it retains its given shape. This combination of lightness and reliability sets birch bark apart from wood, straw, or rattan.

• Pleasant natural scent and texture

Each strip of birch bark has a unique grain and a gentle woody aroma that remains in the finished product. The surface is warm and silky to the touch, with natural colour nuances ranging from creamy white to warm golden tones. Even without varnish or coating, the material looks noble and premium.

• Suitability for both traditional and modern design

Birch bark transcends ethnic style. It fits beautifully into Scandinavian minimalism, eco-interiors, lofts, and even high-tech spaces as a natural accent element. It is used not only for baskets and traditional footwear, but also for lampshades, room dividers, organisers, covers, bags, and even lighting fixtures. The material is equally loved by craftspeople and designers for its versatility and “living” character.

Why Our Wicker Material is Better

• Our strips are made from birch bark that has been fully prepared by us for immediate use
• We manually remove the rough outer layer, bring the material to a uniform thickness (1 mm), and additionally sort it by length and width. Thanks to this pre-treatment, the finished product is neater and can be completed in less time
• Our weaving material is highly valued in Japan and Korea — countries with deep-rooted traditions of working with natural materials

Tips for Use

• When weaving, always use two strips placed together (with the peeled — i.e. lighter — sides facing each other)

• The wicker material can be used either dry or pre-soaked in water. Soaking offers the following advantages:

  • Increased flexibility: Water makes birch bark pliable, allowing you to bend, twist, and flatten strips without breaking or cracking them — especially important for intricate patterns and tight weaving

  • Prevention of tearing: Moistened material glides more easily and does not tear under tension during work

  • Easier layer separation: When wet, the inner layers of birch bark separate much more easily, allowing you to obtain thinner and more delicate strips for fine work

What Can You Weave?

Birch bark wicker material allows you to create unique items such as:

• Baskets and storage boxes of any shape — for storage, picnics, or decoration

• Bread baskets and vases — birch bark breathes and keeps food fresh

• Jewellery boxes and organisers — for accessories, crafts, or stationery

• Bags, clutches, and purses — stylish accessories in eco-style

• Lampshades and room dividers — natural interior elements

• Trays and coasters — for serving or as standalone decor

• Covers for bottles, mugs, and books — original and practical gifts

• Toys and souvenirs — warm, natural, and safe for children

Useful Links

By following the link, you can see the full diversity of ways to use birch bark and birch bark strips.
We would also be happy to welcome you to our second website, entirely dedicated to birch bark products: https://birkenleder.de/