Threads 102: Useful baskets - Salt containers

How many of us realize in these modern times that if salt gets damp or wet it goes into a hard lump? 

Birch bark salt container

I found this birch bark container in Russia, at the duty free shop.

I think it is supposed to look like a little floating duck. It measures 3 inches from head to tail and very tightly into woven with birchbark. The head is removable and made of wood with a tiny stick for a beak. 

 It would be perfect to take on a camping trip.

Indigenous cornhusk salt container

I found this salt container at the Six Nations Reserve in Brantford many years ago. It was in the gift shop at the old residential school. Measuring 6 inches high and 4 inches across the base, it is very tightly woven with what looks like a three strand braid of corn husks. The braids appear to  have been tightly stitched together, but I cannot see any stitches. It is very tightly woven and very strong.

The stopper is appropriately a small piece of corn husk with a straight pin to  prevent it falling in.

I’m intrigued to know more about the technique. 

This comes with Happy Christmas to everybody and best wishes for 2025. Happy baskets making!