Weaving with Words

Weave History, Language, and Community Together

Have you ever spoken Lushootseed, the first language of this land, while weaving with cedar? This hands-on workshop invites you to connect with the deep cultural traditions of Coast Salish basketry and weaving through the guidance of Suquamish tribal members.

Explore the artistry and utility of our basket collection, with pieces dating back to the 1880s. As you weave your own custom cedar cuff bracelet, you’ll also have the opportunity to practice a few Lushootseed words from a tribal Language expert, gaining insight into the language and traditions of the Coast Salish peoples.

Midway through the workshop, we’ll pause to share a delicious and seasonally-inspired lunch in our Dining Hall—a time to reflect, connect, and enjoy a meal crafted with intention.

Your ticket includes all prepared materials, expert instruction, a housemade IslandWood lunch, and direct support for the Suquamish tribal members who generously share their knowledge and artistry.

Join us for this meaningful experience and leave with not only a beautifully woven cedar cuff but also a deeper connection to place, culture, and community.

We welcome Joey Holmes from the Suquamish Language Program, Denita Holmes Cultural Activities Coordinator and Kate Ahvakana Cultural Resources Department Director back to campus and are so grateful they will share their cultural history, Lushootseed language, and artisan weaving techniques with us as we craft our very own special cedar cuff.

From the Suquamish Tribe:

Traditional teachings still play an important role in the modern world. While participating in many of the same denominations as the rest of America and Europe, native peoples have nonetheless also maintained their special relationship with the land and with its sacred aspects. As the larger population becomes more aware of the virtues of being ecumenical, ecologically aware, and respectful of the limitations of our planet, the virtues of traditional respect for nature are becoming better appreciated, understood and encouraged.

The Suquamish Tribe is well known for making traditional basketry and weaving techniques passed down generation to generation. Some of the “hard baskets” made from coiled cedar roots were traditionally used for gathering berries, but were also watertight, which made them ideal for carrying water and also for cooking. Stones heated in a fire would be dropped into baskets to make nutritious soups from smoked salmon and wild potatoes.

Berry baskets are decorated by imbricating colored barks in various designs. Traditional Suquamish baskets are showcased in the Suquamish Museum. Today, the art of weaving is being revived in Suquamish, with several Tribal Members specializing in traditional design, teaching and hosting workshops on cedar and wool weaving.

With special thanks to our event partners, The Suquamish Tribe, for their stewardship of our lands and waters since time immemorial, and as friends and neighbors of IslandWood, sharing their knowledge and language with us so we can all build a deeper connection to our home, its past, present and future.