Softening spruce roots
![Black and white photo, preparing to soften spruce roots. The roots soak in a pot of water that sits on a rock.](https://www.communitystories.ca/v2/la-peche-en-mauricie_fishing-in-the-mauricie-region/wp-content/uploads/sites/102/2018/08/CNA-JPM-253.jpg)
Photo collection of the Conseil de la Nation Atikamekw
Funds Serge Jauvin, 1977-1978, Manawan
Spruce roots or jack pine roots are collected and used to sew the pieces of birch bark together. These long and sturdy roots are spilt in two length-wise, cleaned and then boiled to help soften them up.