Tumpline

Item number A8183 from the MOA: University of British Columbia.

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Description

Woven cotton tumpline with geometric design in red, blue, yellow and wine. Design is a horizontal zigzag. The band of the tumpline narrows at each end and warp fibres are braided to create the carrying straps. Knots have been tied at both ends.

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. The "V" designs on this tumpline were made by incorporating separate material into the weaving.