By Wade Sheldon, Tulalip News
As Easter approached, community members chose to unite in a unique way. They came together not to create traditional Easter baskets but to skillfully weave cedar baskets instead. This twist on a holiday classic brought a fresh spirit of creativity and community.
On Saturday, April 19, the Hibulb Cultural Center welcomed Master Weaver Jamie Sheldon, an experienced instructor who has taught basket weaving there for over 10 years, to lead an engaging class. Eleven community members participated in creating what Jamie calls a “quarter basket.” A three-by-three-by-three-inch basket is utilized for storing small items and decorations.
Jamie showcased her cedar kits from her recent harvest, highlighting her passion for crafting. “We use all-natural materials for our baskets,” she said. “I traveled to the mountains to collect the rare yellow cedar central to our creations.”
Unlike the more common red cedar, yellow cedar grows mainly at mountain tops, making it valuable in basket weaving. Its beauty and rarity elevate the craftsmanship and reflect the spirit of the wild, with each basket telling a story of nature’s bounty and the artisan’s dedication.
The few who gathered to dedicate a few hours to learning a new craft shared laughs and enjoyed each other’s company. Among the attendees was Sarah McCord, who enthusiastically reflected on her experience: “I loved it. This was my first time attending a class at the Hibulb, and I truly appreciated the camaraderie. The instructor’s expertise was clear; she knew her stuff, and I learned so much.”
Almost everyone who attended finished their basket except one person, and Jamie said they could return to her Wednesday class to finish. The students who came to learn found great solace in their creations and held them up with pride after they finished.
Reflecting on her class and teaching at the Hibulb, Sheldon said. “It’s awesome teaching these classes, the people who aren’t Native that come to learn show a lot of respect and want to take in all that I teach.”
Participants left with their handcrafted baskets and a sense of accomplishment as the day ended. This gathering emphasized sharing skills and stories, fostering appreciation for the craft and natural materials. The spirit of collaboration highlighted the community’s heart, encouraging future exploration and creativity. Such experiences remind us that traditions can evolve, forging new bonds that enrich our cultural heritage.
If you’re interested in joining Jamie to create a cedar basket, she offers a class every Wednesday at 5 p.m. at the Hibulb Cultural Center.