High quality weaving cane and reed is paramount to a high quality basket. You may be able to find these materials for less money but I'm sure it just won't be as "fine". The Flat oval reed is my material of choice for staves unless I'm making a custom wooden basket.( In which case I make the staves by hand.) The flat oval reed is cut to emulate the same textures created by cane staves. Namely a subtle rounded shape on the outside and a smooth flat inner side. Besides being less expensive than cane, I have found that reed soaks up more finish than cane and makes a heavier, sturdier basket. Check this page in the future, I may start carrying commercially made wood staves.