Blankets
Blankets – Blankets hold a profound place in the history of the First Peoples of North America. For centuries, they have provided warmth and comfort, served as a medium of exchange, expressed artistry, and carried deep meaning within ceremonies and councils. Pendleton blankets continue this tradition by honoring Indigenous heritage with original designs inspired by Native American art, legends, ceremonies, and heroes. Kanata has also beautifully reimagined Bill Helin’s Tsimshian Life Crest designs, celebrating Indigenous traditions through the artistry of these blankets. Whether given as gifts, displayed as art, or used for comfort, these intricately patterned, high-quality blankets are timeless treasures to enjoy today and pass down as heirlooms.
Beyond their practical use as clothing, bedding, and protection, blankets remain central to ceremonial life for Indigenous peoples. Within the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations, they are integral to significant milestones such as weddings, name-givings, coming-of-age ceremonies, and funerals. To be blanketed together in a wedding symbolizes two people becoming united as one heart and one mind. To be blanketed individually over the shoulders signifies honour. When a blanket is folded and worn over the left shoulder and under the right arm—covering the heart—it represents being hired to work on behalf of the family hosting the ceremony, a way to keep the positive in and the negative out.
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