A split willow basket means the willow branches woven together have been split in half long-ways, making the walls of the basket lighter and thinner. The rounded willow branch is on the exterior, and at a glance, looks similar to the outside of a full willow basket. However, the interior has flatter side walls because of the willow being split. Split willow baskets are always less expensive. At Pioneer, the material savings is passed on to you. However, because of the thinner material, they are not quite as strong or as durable as a full willow basket, and not quite as attractive. Consider sizing carefully. Listed dimensions are outside to outside, inside dimensions are less. Since baskets are handmade of natural products, sizes and colors can vary. Allow for tapering.