Spruce Root Baskets

Basketmaking in Newfoundland from spruce roots and witherod (Viburnum spp). This video is from 1982 and it was already claimed to be a dying art then. This relatively short video doesn't insruct fully on how these are made, but it goes through the process with just information enough that it might be possible to attempt one! The spruce roots used are from white spruce and harvested between June and August. The rods are "witherod" or "wild raisin" which could either be Viburnum nudum or Viburnum cassinoides both of which grow in moist, shady sites.