Because the cedar tree is considered sacred, the cedar bark is sustainably harvested in the traditional ways of the northwest First Nations people. As Cedar is a symbol of strength and protection, the bark is gathered, after a prayer, by taking only one strip from each tree. By taking only one strip, this prevents serious damage to the tree.
There are many layers of the cedar bark so once a strip of bark is pulled from the tree, the rough outer bark is cleaned off the strip. The bark is then stored and allowed to cure for a year. When ready to use, the bark is soaked in water, then separated into two, or three layers. At this point you can cut the cedar bark into the length and width required for your project.
There are many layers of the cedar bark so once a strip of bark is pulled from the tree, the rough outer bark is cleaned off the strip. The bark is then stored and allowed to cure for a year. When ready to use, the bark is soaked in water, then separated into two, or three layers. At this point you can cut the cedar bark into the length and width required for your project.