Baskets Pacific Northwest Native Americans in Olden Times   Baskets: Like mats, baskets were a big part of daily life. Some Indian families had a family design they used when weaving baskets. But mostly, women tried to outdo each other with designs and colors. Baskets were made in the winter months. To get ready for the winter weaving, all summer long basket-making materials were collected. Grass was used like embroidery thread. Certain grasses were collected because of their strength and colors. Some women hiked into the mountains, a most dangerous thing to do, to collect grass to make baskets. Roots and twigs had to be soaked just right.  Once baskets were made, they were used to store belongings on the open shelves, to store food, and used for trade. Basket making was then, and still is, an art. Secret basket making techniques were handed down from mother to daughter. Baskets Free Presentations in PowerPoint format  Free Clip Art Return to the Northwest Indians Index   or the Native American Index  All Rights Reserved    Clip Art Credit: Phillip Martin Have a great year!