Twined Woven Bags from Barking Rock Farm

These gorgeous creations are all authentic Native American patterns, researched and created by artist Diana Whipple Lewis.

Technically referred to as paired twined weaving, this method of interlacing fibers is a variation on a basketry technique and predates the traditional Southwestern weaving by thousands of years. Originally such bags were woven of a twisted plant fiber warp and a human or animal hair weft, and the technique predates European contact. Once wool yarn was available, this material was readily adopted for this ancient craft. No loom is used, only a rudimentary frame; and the finished pieces have no seams.

Such bags were traditionally used as a means of storing possessions. Smaller bags - which were usually woven of small pieces of scrap yarn - were tucked inside larger bags as a type of "pocket." The bags are finished with a finger-woven (a type of wide, flat braid) strap that is incredibly strong. The weft-faced bags are extremely durable.

Diana learned this craft from her grandfather when she was a very young child. It's a fascinating process to watch, and one which has become nearly extinct in today's Native society. These handwoven wool or wool blend bags take many hours to complete, and many retell a myth or legend in the weaving. No two bags will ever be exactly the same!

.......We're sorry to disappoint, but all bags are sold. If you'd like to be notified when we again have stock available, please contact us here. We'll add your email on our mailing list. We do not sell our mailing lists, nor will we bug you or contact you until twined bags are available!......

Meanwhile, please enjoy the photo gallery of finished and sold bags below!

Travel Pattern - Potawatami

Kills Two Deer Pattern

Blue Jay Pattern

Small "pocket" bags were traditionally woven of bits and scraps of yarn, utilizing the same twined woven technique as their larger brethren. These make great interior pouches inside a larger bag; or are wonderful all on their own for concealing and protecting items such as a cell phone or glasses. Approximate size is 3.5 x 6 inches; all are woven of wool on jute warp.


Travel Pattern - Potawatami	Kills Two Deer Pattern	Blue Jay Pattern


Kills Two Deer Pattern	Maple Tree Legend	Iroquois Pattern


Firestarter	Blue Jay Legend	Potawatomi Travel Pattern