Abalone Shell weaving

Abalone have been used for thousands of years by Native Americans for traditional foods and in ceremony and with spiritual people who use the four elements in healing; earth, air, water and fire. In this class we will combine natural materials, local plants and weave around a medium size abalone shell, while using traditional Native American weaving techniques. Join in exploring these traditions while weaving your covered shell. Many people use covered abalone shells as a smudge bowls or even for holding their favorite jewelry. Students will learn different weaving methods, traditional rim and finishing techniques, and go home with a beautiful piece.

A note on accessibility:

All of the materials are carefully harvested and prepared for you over the course of a year or more. If the cost of this class is prohibitive for you please email events@seagrapesoap.com for a sliding scale spot--BIPOC encouraged to reach out.

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axayam!!! Greetings!!! (in Chinook) I am Traditional Basket Weaver Stephanie Craig (Wood). I am enrolled member of The Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde Community of Oregon. Im Santiam and Yoncalla Kalapuya, Umpqua, Takelma Rogue River, Clackamas Chinook and Iroquois. I grew up listening to my mother, my Chich (Grandmother in Chinuk Wawa) and aunties telling stories of our familys weaving and our weaving traditions. Family baskets and weaving traditions have been passed down through six generations, and are still continued today through our teachings and basket making. I feel that it is very important to preserve our history; and as a young Native American tribal member, it is part of my job to help educate and document cultural heritage and traditions. I am committed to preserving our cultural practices for future generations and to continue on the traditions of our Elders.

-Stephanie