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● FAQ
>> 1. What type of cedar is best for weaving?
>> 2. How do I harvest cedar bark without damaging the tree?
>> 3. Can I use dried cedar bark?
>> 4. What tools do I need for cedar basket weaving?
>> 5. How long does it take to weave a cedar basket?
Cedar basket weaving is a traditional craft that has been practiced for centuries, particularly among Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest. This article will guide you through the process of weaving a cedar basket, from gathering materials to finishing touches. We will also explore the cultural significance of this craft and provide a comprehensive FAQ section at the end.
Before you start weaving, you need to gather the right materials. The primary material for cedar basket weaving is the inner bark of the cedar tree, which is known for its flexibility and durability.
- Cedar Bark: Harvested from Western Red Cedar or Yellow Cedar.
- Tools: Sharp knife or drawknife, scissors, and a soaking container.
- Water: For soaking the bark to make it pliable.
1. Select a Tree: Choose a healthy cedar tree. Ensure you have permission if it's not on your property.
2. Remove Outer Bark: Carefully peel away the outer bark to expose the inner bark.
3. Cut Strips: Cut long strips of inner bark, which will be used for weaving. The strips should be about 1-2 inches wide.
Once you have harvested your cedar bark, it needs to be prepared for weaving.
1. Soak the Strips: Soak the strips in water for at least 20 minutes for Western Red Cedar and 4 minutes for Yellow Cedar until they become pliable.
2. Drying: After soaking, lay the strips flat on a towel to remove excess water before starting to weave.
Cedar baskets can be woven using several techniques, including twining and coiling. Here, we will focus on the twining method, which is commonly used in cedar basketry.
1. Laying Out the Spokes: Start with a foundation by laying out vertical spokes (the strips that go up and down).
2. Twining Technique: Begin twining by taking two horizontal strands and wrapping them around the vertical spokes in an over-under pattern.
- The right strand goes over a spoke and under the next one.
- Alternate with the left strand.
3. Building Upward: Continue this pattern until you reach your desired height for the base of your basket.
1. Bending Up Spokes: Once your base is complete, gently bend up the vertical spokes to form the sides of your basket.
2. Continue Twining: As you bend up the spokes, continue twining around them to create the walls of your basket.
3. Tightening Rows: Make sure to pack each row tightly as you weave; this will help maintain the shape and integrity of your basket.
1. Creating a Rim: Once you've reached your desired height, create a rim by folding down or tucking in any excess spokes.
2. Trimming Excess Material: Use scissors to trim any excess length from spokes that extend beyond your desired rim height.
3. Final Tuck-In: Tuck in any loose ends or excess material into the last row so that they are secure and hidden.
Cedar baskets are not only functional but also hold cultural significance among Indigenous peoples. They are often used in ceremonies and as gifts, symbolizing connection to nature and heritage. The art of weaving is traditionally passed down through generations, with each weaver bringing their unique style and technique to their work.
Basket weaving among Native Americans dates back thousands of years, serving both practical and ceremonial purposes. Baskets were essential for gathering food, storing items, and even as musical instruments in some cultures[5][8]. Each tribe developed unique styles based on their environment and available materials; for example, Northeastern tribes often used sweet grass while those in the Northwest Coast favored cedar bark[10][12].
Once you have mastered basic twining techniques, you can explore more advanced methods that add complexity and beauty to your baskets.
1. Checkerboard Weave: Alternate light and dark strips to create a checkerboard pattern.
2. Spiral Weave: Start from a central point and spiral outwards for a unique design.
3. Decorative Edges: Use different colors or textures at the rim for added visual interest.
To enhance your baskets' aesthetics, consider using natural dyes made from plants or minerals. This traditional practice not only beautifies your work but also connects it more deeply with nature[8][10].
1. Over-soaking Bark: While soaking is necessary to make bark pliable, too much water can lead to weak spots in your basket.
2. Inconsistent Tension: Maintaining even tension while weaving is crucial for structural integrity; uneven tension can cause warping or gaps[19].
3. Ignoring Patterns: While improvisation can lead to unique designs, following established patterns can help maintain balance and symmetry in your work[12][19].
Weaving a cedar basket is a rewarding process that connects you with nature and tradition. By following these steps, you can create beautiful and functional pieces that reflect both skill and cultural heritage. As you gain experience in this craft, remember that each basket tells a story—of materials gathered from nature, techniques passed down through generations, and personal creativity woven into every stitch.
The Western Red Cedar (*Thuja plicata*) is commonly preferred due to its flexibility and durability.
Harvest only from live trees during summer when sap is running, ensuring minimal damage by making shallow cuts.
Yes, but it must be soaked thoroughly before weaving to make it pliable again.
You will need a sharp knife or drawknife for harvesting, scissors for trimming, and a soaking container for preparing the bark.
The time can vary based on size and complexity but expect anywhere from a few hours to several days for larger baskets.
[1] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_6XAO0xfGHM
[2] https://www.sfomuseum.org/exhibitions/woven-legacies-basketry-native-north-america
[3] https://www.burkemuseum.org/collections-and-research/culture/contemporary-culture/coast-salish-art/coast-salish-weaving-tools
[4] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t6fZDUs97eE
[5] https://blog.kachinahouse.com/basket-weavings-importance-in-native-american-culture/
[6] https://www.pinterest.com/mel6105/cedar-weaving/
[7] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gl9vOwr0TtM
[8] https://www.southwesternrugsdepot.com/history-native-american-baskets/
[9] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DMG5-MaSn3g
[10] https://artsandculture.google.com/story/native-american-basketry/xgKCiVDR6UhdKQ
[11] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VNoNkyV_gA4
[12] https://www.burkemuseum.org/static/baskets/Teachersguideforbasketry.htm
[13] https://www.etsy.com/market/cedar_weaving
[14] https://sustainablelivingproject.blogspot.com/2015/05/woven-cedar-bark-basket.html
[15] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basket_weaving
[16] https://learninglab.si.edu/collections/tsimshian-bilingual-guide-twining-cedar/XgWgs2ediz4rrgFh
[17] https://cedar.wwu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1872&context=wwu_honors
[18] https://www.nsnews.com/in-the-community/time-traveller-basket-weaving-an-important-part-of-local-first-nations-history-3123574
[19] https://www.matttommey.com/basket-weaving-techniques
[20] https://www.pinterest.com/ojibwa1015/cedar-basket-weaving/
