A basketweave bong is a piece with a woven, criss-cross glass pattern, interlacing strands of glass that cross over and under each other to form a textured, three-dimensional weave. It's decorative worked glass that signals real skill, and on Encore's Basketweave Henny line it turns a bong into a genuine piece of craftsmanship. Here's what it is, how it's made, why it's prized, and how to get one.
What is a basketweave bong?
A basketweave bong is a piece featuring a woven, basket-like glass pattern, interlacing strands of glass that cross over and under each other to form a textured, three-dimensional weave. Like reticello, it's decorative worked glass that signals real skill. It doesn't change how the bong hits; it's about artistry, texture and standout looks. You'll see it on Encore's Henny pounders and bubblers, browse the glass bongs collection to see them.
How basketweave glass is made
Basketweave is a hands-on, skill-intensive technique. The artist works strands or ribbons of glass and interlaces them in a woven, over-under pattern around the body of the piece, much like weaving a real basket. Keeping the weave even and clean across a curved surface takes precision and experience, which is exactly why a well-executed basketweave stands out. Often the strands are colored so the weave pops against the clear glass.
Why basketweave is prized
- Craftsmanship. A clean, even weave shows genuine glassworking skill, you can't fake it.
- Texture and depth. The over-under pattern gives the glass a tactile, 3D quality that flat designs can't match.
- Uniqueness. Every hand-woven piece is one of a kind.
As with color and reticello, basketweave is about beauty, not function, the same quality borosilicate hits just as smooth whether plain or woven. See do colored glass bongs affect quality and what actually makes a bong high quality.
The Basketweave Henny line: which to buy
Encore pairs the basketweave pattern with its signature Hennessy base in thick, heavy "Pounder" glass, see what is a pounder bong for that build. Here's how to choose:
- Want the full statement centerpiece? The 11" Basketweave Henny Pounder is the showpiece, full-size heavy glass with a bold woven pattern.
- Prefer something more compact and versatile? The 9" Basketweave Henny Pounder Bubbler brings the woven look in a smaller, do-it-all form.
- Love a relaxed, laid-back silhouette? The 9" Lazy Henny Basketweave tilts the classic Henny into a distinctive, eye-catching piece.
It's a design that's as much display piece as daily driver, see them all in the glass bongs and colored glass bongs collections.
Buying tips
- Show it off, keep it clean. A worked-glass piece deserves clear glass, an ash catcher keeps the pattern looking its best.
- Handle with care. These are hand-worked art pieces; store them safely, see how to protect your bong from breaking.
- Pick your palette. Basketweave strands come in different colors, choose the one that fits your setup.
Frequently asked questions
What is a basketweave bong?
It's a bong with a woven, basket-like glass pattern, strands of glass interlaced over and under each other for a textured, three-dimensional look. It's decorative worked glass that showcases skill, and it doesn't affect how the bong functions.
How is basketweave glass made?
An artist interlaces strands or ribbons of glass in a woven, over-under pattern around the piece, like weaving a basket. Keeping the weave clean and even on a curved surface takes real precision, which is what makes a good basketweave impressive.
Does basketweave change how a bong hits?
No. Basketweave is purely decorative, it's about artistry and texture, not function. A quality borosilicate bong hits just as smooth whether it's plain or woven; the pattern simply adds beauty and craftsmanship.
Is basketweave like reticello?
They're cousins, both are skill-intensive worked-glass patterns that add beauty rather than function. Reticello creates a fine netted grid with trapped bubbles, while basketweave creates a bolder, tactile over-under woven texture.
What is a Basketweave Henny?
It's Encore's pairing of the basketweave pattern with its Hennessy-base shape, thick, heavy glass with a woven texture and a bold, bottle-inspired silhouette, available in pounder and bubbler styles.
Own a piece of art
A basketweave bong is craftsmanship you can see and feel, woven texture that marks real skill and makes every piece unique. Shop Encore glass bongs now to find a Basketweave Henny, or explore colored glass bongs for more standout, artisan-detailed pieces.
Want one? See the 11" Basketweave Henny Pounder Bong ($59.95).
Prefer an even bigger centerpiece? See the 13.5" Basketweave Henny Pounder Bong.
