Cedar Bark: The Foundation of Coast Salish Textiles
From sustainable harvesting to processing into soft, durable fibers
Sustainable Harvesting Methods
Coast Salish weavers perfected methods for harvesting cedar bark that let trees thrive for centuries. The work starts in late spring when rising sap makes the bark easier to remove in long strips.
Harvesters choose mature trees and score the bark vertically, taking only what's needed while keeping the tree's inner layer intact. This sustainable approach allows the same trees to provide bark for generations.
The outer bark is separated from the prized inner bark, which holds the soft fibers for weaving. The inner bark is then pounded, shredded, and cleaned to create workable fiber.
Mountain Goat Wool & the Salish Wool Dog
The finest Coast Salish textiles used mountain goat wool, traded from the Cascade and Coast Mountain ranges. This luxurious fiber was saved for ceremonial blankets and high-status clothing.
There was also the Salish wool dog, a small breed bred for its soft, woolly coat. These dogs were sheared yearly like sheep, providing a reliable source of white wool for spinning and dyeing. The breed died out in the 19th century, making it one of only two known dog breeds developed for fiber.
Blending mountain goat wool, dog hair, and processed cedar bark created textiles of remarkable durability and beauty. Some ceremonial blankets in museums are over 200 years old.
Spindle Whorls: Art and Function
Interactive display of traditional spinning tools and their meaning
Salmon Motif Whorls
Spindle whorls carved with salmon designs connect the spinner to the seasonal cycles of Coast Salish life. The salmon's journey upstream mirrors how raw fiber becomes finished thread.
Thunderbird Lightning Whorls
The thunderbird motif represents power and spiritual protection. Lightning patterns carved into whorls were believed to imbue the resulting textiles with spiritual strength and protection for the wearer.
Archaeological Specimens
Spindle whorls provide crucial archaeological evidence of textile production spanning over 2,000 years. Stylistic analysis reveals the evolution of carving techniques and symbolic meanings.
Traditional Pattern Library
Geometric motifs and their cultural meanings in Coast Salish textiles
Lightning/Water Zigzag
The zigzag pattern represents both lightning striking from above and water flowing through rivers and streams. This fundamental pattern appears in textiles, basketry, and house posts throughout Coast Salish territory.
Diamond Salmon Trap
Diamond patterns reference the traditional reef net fishing technology. The interlocking diamonds represent the web of nets that capture salmon, symbolizing abundance and the community cooperation required for successful fishing.
Chevron Mountains
Chevron patterns represent the mountain ranges that surround Coast Salish territory. These designs also symbolize the spiritual power drawn from high places and the connection between earth and sky.
Contemporary Weaving Revival
Modern Coast Salish weavers continuing traditional knowledge
Master Weavers Program
Working in partnership with Coast Salish communities, the archive supports contemporary master weavers who are revitalizing traditional techniques and teaching the next generation of textile artists.
Current Projects Include:
- Documentation of elder knowledge holders before techniques are lost
- Youth apprenticeship programs in schools and cultural centers
- Restoration and replication of historic blankets for museum collections
- Research into sustainable alternatives to extinct materials like wool dog hair
- Digital preservation of pattern libraries and technical knowledge
Featured Master Weavers: Debra Sparrow (Musqueam), Krista Point (Musqueam), and Robyn Sparrow (Musqueam) are among the contemporary artists working to ensure these traditions continue for future generations.
Support Traditional Arts
Help preserve the sophisticated textile traditions of Coast Salish weavers through documentation, education, and support for contemporary artists continuing this vital cultural practice.