Jill and Paul Scarpari started making handmade baskets as a hobby in the early 1990s. As they became more skilled, they turned their passion into a business. Jill was hooked on basket-making after taking her first class in 1991. She had so much fun that she encouraged Paul to try his hand at it in 1995.
At first, Paul struggled to create baskets that stood upright, but he eventually mastered the craft. As the couple began to accumulate more and more baskets, their family grew tired of receiving them as gifts. This led them to start selling their creations.
Paul finds making baskets mentally stimulating because there are many different types and styles to choose from, ranging from small pine needle baskets to large hampers and backpacks. He enjoys the challenge of creating new designs and finding satisfaction in producing pieces that people love.
Scarpari Baskets can be found in local stores such as Frae in Shiloh Commons and Three Rivers Gallery in Big Timber for prices ranging from $20 to $300. Despite being a business venture, the couple views it as a passion project that adds fulfillment to their post-career lives.
