Tumpline

Item number 1768/51 a-b from the MOA: University of British Columbia.

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Description

Tumpline with a wide middle area woven with a multicoloured zigzagging pattern, ending in a narrow, braided bark rope on one side. Part b is a narrow, braided plant fibre rope with a knot at one end, frayed at other; broken off from the tumpline.

History Of Use

Sto:lo weavers note that tumplines, like this one, are tied to baskets or bundles of cedar bark and used when both hands are needed for climbing or collecting. The woven band is worn against the forehead. Men also use these types of straps for packing deer meat home and as gun straps.

Specific Techniques

Nlaka'pamux Elder and weaver, Minnie Peters, notes that you can take these smaller weavings with you and work on them anywhere. One end should be secured above you, the other end you can tie around your waist. Then the weaver can just weave back and forth. Sticks are placed across the weaving to keep pushing it back.