Threads Through Time: Finger Weaving

The ingenuity of Cherokee people continues through the creation of textiles such as finger weaving.
His story: Cherokee Nation citizen Luke Wassom, 24, started weaving at 15 years old. Having grown up in around the Osage Nation, he began weaving regalia for Osage “in-lon-schka” or stomp dance.
“I didn’t have anybody to make mine. So I just decided to learn to make my own,” Wassom said.
He was taught by his aunt, Debbie, and was also influenced by Cherokee National Treasure Candessa Tehee.
“The bulk of my weaving that I produced, because I grew up with Osages, is I produce Osage finger weaving,” he said. “It’s the same style of producing the textile, but it’s expressed in different colors and in different patterns.”

[@isaaclau7741]

Very cool ❤

[@kariannefimland1475]

Very cool. This looks so similar to a technique we use in Norway. Our technique is called Sprang. Textile history is so important to document and maintain. :) Great video.

[@anitacohen5939]

I would love to learn how to do the arrowhead pattern, but there are no classes and the books and tutorials aren't as clear as I would like. Can you do a tutorial of the starting of the arrowhead so I can learn this one design. I want to give a special gift to our Scoutmaster who has Indian roots. Can you please help? Thank you and God bless!

[@jessicarosado7589]

I’d love to learn how to finger weave! I have a couple of books on it and a DVD but I learn better from interactive instruction. I’m Taino from the Caribbean and south Florida but I’m not sure if finger weaving was a part of my culture but regardless I’d like to learn.

[@mammaearly]

Im a spinner. Im curious how the yarn was made by the women before spinning wheels were used. Did the use hand-made spindle or just sticks.