A story knife carved from cottonwood bark, engraved with detailed ornamental designs.

Story knifing was traditionally an activity for girls, mothers and grandmothers. Story Knives were made of wood, bone, or ivory engraved with detailed ornamental designs. They were carved by a grandfather, father or uncle and gifted to young girl when she was old enough to be entrusted with the stories of the ancestors. She would use the story knife to draw/tell stories in the snow, mud or dirt. When the girl grew up or in some cases, started her menses, the story knife along with her other childhood toys would be gifted to a younger girl.