c̓q̓ʷemət̕ᶿtən (Mat Needle)
About this object
History of use
Mat needles are used for sewing together, and crimping, mats made from cat-tail and tule reeds.
Cultural context
domestic; plant technology
Specific techniques
According to Dr. Michael Kew, Coast Salish mat needles were normally made from the wood of a plant called ocean spray or ironwood. They were made by splitting the vertical stalk to create two needles, flat on one side and rounded on the other.
Physical description
Four long narrow, wooden mat needles (parts a-d) with triangular cross sections and flat, pointed tips. The tips widen slightly before narrowing to a point. Round shaped, eye holes are present at the ends opposite of the points. Made from a yellowish brown coloured wood.
