MME Designs's Weblog

Specific geographic locations fostered the development of distinct stylistic basket motifs. Generic baskets were not produced; names were assigned to baskets classified by function. Working mothers safely carried infants in tule shade cradles. Tightly woven storage baskets about 2’ x 3’ constructed of hazel with straight sides were traditionally hung in structures. Acorn baskets featured an open stitch to allow air to move through the seeds in a coastal climate where fog supported mold growth. Parching trays were round and flat; close woven water-resistant conical burden basket held seeds; course woven conical burden baskets were constructed of hazel were used to gather foodstuffs; and coiled basket hoppers for grinding acorns. Men made large non-water resistant burden baskets with a handle on each side to store dried acorns. One man on each side using handles carried the basket that was placed on sticks or grass inside the granary.

The acorn woodpecker stores in trees while California Indians traditionally stockpiled acorns over a couple of years in baskets secured in small bark-covered structures that allowed for good air circulation in the foggy coastal climate.