Technology: Long roots (from P. Rubra) growing close to ground surface were pulled up, pealed and split into strips for lacing. The gum from the tree was used as a pitch for patching holes and leaking seams in birch bark canoes and pails. The gum was boiled in wide-meshed bags that retained organic debris but allowed the gum to pass into the water where it was skimmed off and mixed with cedar charcoal.

Note: For additional information browse NativeTech's Information about sewing with Spruce Roots