Cornhusk

[Nightherder]

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[This message has been edited by Nightherder (edited February 06, 2001).]

[Czechy]

Well, I was working from what information I could find as I don't know anyone who weaves. I was also using the materials I could easily find, the cotton string and the cornhusk. I kinda figured I was getting in over my head but I always like a challenge and so it was a fun experiment. I haven't worked on my hat in a long time although my interest in it is still there. If I can find it, I'll scan in a picture although there really isn't much of it to see. I rather doubt I'll ever finish the hat because my mission was to try to teach myself the weaving rather than come up with a decent end product.

Nightherder, you sound quite knowledgeable about this topic and I'm glad for your input. Thanks!

[RW]

I weave cedar bark hats for Tradional dances and Potlatching up here on the coast. The east of the mountain hats you guys are discussing are still being made here in Washington. There are folks in Yakama and Umatilla who still know how to do it. Hands on is the ONLY way to really learn anything in my humble opinion, especially weaving. I was taught by elders and master weavers the way to work the barks. Its a life time of learning. Iam not an expert, but I think if a person really wants to learn these style of weaving you should come over to eastern washington and learn from one of these folks. Are any of ya'll Plateau Indians? If so, maybe I know some folks you can contact.
Surprised to see this topic on the powwow board! Right on Weavers!
Rich

[Nightherder]

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[This message has been edited by Nightherder (edited February 06, 2001).]

[Nightherder]

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[This message has been edited by Nightherder (edited February 06, 2001).]

[Czechy]

Um, that's not my weaving! Although I hope to some day do as nice a job as Red Fringe has there.
I've found the hat I started but really, there's nothing much to see and it doesn't quite look like the other examples of cornhusk weaving shown here! Well, its my first attempt. Guess I'll have to keep practicing. What would make a better warp material while I'm still learning? Jute cord?

[Nightherder]

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[This message has been edited by Nightherder (edited February 06, 2001).]

[lsijohn]

I am going to try to crop my picture down so everyone can see the detail on my bag.

But Czechy, I would recommend using hemp twine. That is the warp string on my little bag.

Hemp twine is pretty easy to find. You can buy it at any craft store.

[Czechy]

The hemp twine, is that the stuff used for making macrame' bracelets and such?

[lsijohn]

This is a picture of my current project. The bag is about 4 wide and 5 inches tall.

I was at a Christmas craft bizzar on Thursday. Two vendors were selling miniature cornhusk bags that were made into necklaces. The necklaces were really cool!

I am going to try to make some of the miniature cornhusk bags myself. They would make great gifts!