Back Strap Item Number: Sa264 from the MOA: University of British Columbia

Description

Rectangular shaped agave(?) fibre plaited strap with a large fibre loop at each end; looped through each is a long piece of fibre twine with a frayed end. The twine is made of two pieces of fibre twisted together; one piece is light purple.

History Of Use

A back strap is used with the relatively simple back strap loom. The loom is tied to a tree or a house post, while the back strap passes around the weaver's waist and is attached to either end of the front loom bar. By simply moving forward or back, the weaving tension can be adjusted. Primarily used by women.

Cultural Context

textile weaving