Trade Impact

Large and wide the trade impact can be seen within Native American culture and material production of goods. As a result of trade, Native American men would barter their fur trappings for glass beads and trade cloth that could later be used for material assembly by women. Silk ribbons were another popular item of trade, which are featured on select Bandolier Bags, however before trading occurred Native women would paint the surface of animals hides to incorporate vibrant colors (Cotherman). The use of beadwork on bags soon replaced the meticulous and precise technique of quillwork, which was dominant in some communities (Kilroy-Ewbank, 2016).

Over the next hundred years beginning from 1770, beads evolved from small size and limited colors to larger size and metallic and vibrant colors. Elaborate beadwork could demonstrate success of the wearer in acquiring these limited materials and showcased the skills of the female relatives who made the bag (Cotherman). Designs and techniques were also altered due to trade and colonization. For example, Indigenous girls who attended boarding schools were were taught European techniques of embroidery which often revolved around floral and asymetric designs, which influenced beadwork on traditional clothing.