Sometimes it is from the most humble and mundane of objects that allow us the most intimate views into past peoples’ lives. Weaving was an activity carried out by Norse women during the off season of the harvest in winter.  This weaving batten from Norway, dating between the 9th and 10th century, is made of whale bone. We know relatively little else about it, but the batten would have been used to beat down wool as it was woven on a loom to press each row of wool into a tight textile.
Probably one of the most important products woven by Norse women was the sail.  It was a highly intense activity, with the creation of one full sail taking about 3 and a half years.¹  Sail technology, coupled with the Norse style building of keels, gave the Norse the cutting edge in naval power over their European neighbors, allowing them the upper hand in battle.²  This technology allowed for better navigation out at sea and the expansion of Norse influence into many new territories as Norse settlement began in Europe. By weaving the large square shaped sails, women played an integral role in participating in the process of ship building. Boats were important in Norse society, as the Norse themselves, particularly those living in Norway, led lives tied to the sea. Fish were a crucial resource to the Norse as trade goods which they exported in large quantities to Europe and as food which made up a large portion of their diet. Not to mention seal and whale as important resources harvested from the sea. Further, women had special status by being included in the creation of such critical economic investments. Weaving was one of the ways through which women wielded power in Norse society by actively tying them into activities outside the community.

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