I believe it is silly to believe that your bread will taste any better
using an over-priced banneton. I am a purist when it comes to some things
in the baking of bread, but having a $50 basket lined with a piece of linen
is not one of them. I happen to be a basket maker so I created my own,
lined them with linen, and have just what I need at a fraction of the price
charged in various catalogs. If you do not make baskets, perhaps you know
someone who does, or have a basket making group in your area. Buying a
fancy basket is akin to buying an SUV only to do battle with the potholes
in a supermarket parking lot. Go visit some artisan bakeries and look at
their bannetons. These are old, beat-up baskets that get the job done, not
some la-de-da stuff that costs way too much.
Bob the Tarheel Baker