Basket weaving has become a dying art due to the laborious, intensive task of gathering and preparing the materials; nevertheless, many elders are currently pursuing this art form in order to preserve it for future generations. The Haida females were best known for their cedar bark clothing, ceremonial head coverings and basketry. Miniatures were made specifically as giveaways while the larger proportioned baskets were utilized for berry picking, storage and cooking strainers. The weaving patterns were traditionally geometric in origin. The fineness of the weave exemplified the expertise of the weaver and, therefore, held a greater value for trade or sale purposes.