A banneton basket, also known as a proofing basket or brotform, is a wicker basket used for proofing bread dough. Bread bakers use these baskets after the dough is shaped the help hold the shape of the dough as it proofs. This allows the dough to rise up, instead of spreading out. These baskets are also what creates the beautiful spiral pattern you often see on artisan style breads like sourdough. When you get your new banneton basket you will need to get it damp and dust it with a layer of rice