Notice we said “tips” instead of “guide”? Well, there’s a reason for that. It’s because there are really no hard-and-fast rules when it comes to decorating your home with African Tonga baskets. These baskets are so versatile that the possibility of using them as décor is pretty much endless!
So whether you’ve recently bought—or is seriously thinking of buying one soon—a Tonga basket because you have a growing appreciation of African mores or simply because you’re just one of those cultured individuals with good taste, allow us to give you a couple of jumping-off points on how to use them.
Below are some ways that you can make your walls eclectically fabulous through the addition of Tonga baskets or African wall decor!
Hang a Single Tonga Basket
Some prefer to keep things clean and simple by hanging just one Tonga basket on a wall that’s directly above a sofa or behind a dining table. Since these bowl-shaped baskets slightly protrude (when viewed from the side), make sure that the basket will not get in the way of anyone. You can do this by providing enough space between the furniture and the wall to limit potential damage to your Tonga basket. About 15 to 20 inches of space will do.
Add Some Textural and Structural Contrast
If you prefer to make things more exciting by playing with some textures or shapes, you can surround a single Tonga basket with some framed photos, a Juju hat, a few meaningful travel souvenirs, or anything else that holds a fond memory. Mix things up and have fun as you go!
Display a Couple in Your Kitchen
Why not hang a Tonga basket to liven up a plain kitchen wall? Just make sure that you’ll hang them as far away from the stove as possible to avoid any greasy gunk build-up. First, that’s going be difficult to clean. Secondly, the residue might permanently alter the basket’s finish.
Make a Symmetrical Gallery Wall
Got a huge wall? Go create a giant piece of artwork by grouping Tonga hats together. Symmetry is key in making these baskets the focal point of a room. To do that, it’s best to create cut-outs of your baskets first before you start hammering away. Start by positioning each basket face-down on a newspaper, trace it, and then cut along the line. Arrange the cut-outs on your wall in a pattern that you prefer. Experiment with a few arrangements first until you find something that you’re truly happy with.
Or an Unsymmetrical One
You’re not breaking any rules if you decide to hang them in a disorderly fashion because there are no rules to begin with. If you ask us, an unsymmetrical gallery wall is just as exciting as a symmetrical one….maybe more. What we’re simply pointing out is that you shouldn’t let conventional ideas hold you back. Just feel free to arrange your Tonga baskets however you like until you get some sense of what feels comfortable to you.
Looking for authentic Tonga baskets? Checkout our gorgeous lineup here!