Baskets are woven containers. They are extremely important to human existence because they allow for the storage of food and carrying of resources. Humans worldwide have used native materials to craft baskets to aid in daily tasks and requirements. In addition to utilitarian basketry, decorative basketry is also important for artistic expressions of individuality, spirituality and tribalism. Archaeologists and historians have learned much about ancient cultures from basketry fragments which have been found across the globe. The oldest basketry fragments were found in Egypt and date back about 12,000 years. In North America, native cultures are well known for fine basketry. PLAITED BASKETRY - Plaiting is a method of basketry that involves alternating flat materials.