Handmade Bike Basket

Mike and Judy McDade bought their 1860's home in 1990 after falling in love with the house as well as Monroe County. In 1994, Judy quit her job and decided to go into business on her own. After trying a few basket kits, she decided basket making was worth a try. Armed with a little knowledge and time on her side, Jamit! Baskets began.

In 1995, Mike and Judy attended a trade show sponsored by West Virginia with Governor Caperton's blessing. The show was a great break for them.

QVC Home Shopping Network chose their original design, the "Molly Basket", for their show "50 States in 50 Weeks". They had 10 weeks to produce 500 finished baskets. Mike and Judy set a goal of 50 finished baskets each week. They were very careful not to get ill, worked until 11 pm on weeknights, and even later on weekends. With drive and determination they finished their baskets in time, and were able to make the show, which they did live in Charleston. In five minutes of national air time they sold 200 baskets. The rest sold after the broadcast.

Mike and Judy also grow willow. Each year they harvest the willow before Spring, cutting the rods down to the stool (rod base). Next, it is separated by type, tied and placed in a dry shed for a year.
Mike and Judy's house came with an established bamboo forest, and they are always looking for ways to incorporate bamboo into their baskets.

• Company Name : Jamit! Baskets