Back Strap Item Number: E139 from the MOA: University of British Columbia

Description

Brown leather, rectangular shaped back strap, decorated with a stamped lozenge pattern consisting of waved vertical lines and edge with repeated semi-circles. Both ends are looped together with nails and have braided fibre twine attached.

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