Paint Bag and Stick

This bag is made from buckskin in the form of a moccasin. The stick is made of deer antler in velvet. The velvet was part of the new antler growth on the deer and was used to apply the paint. When the men or women began decorate each other for dances, ceremonies, or other events, they use a variety of methods and materials. In addition to beaded barrettes, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and clothing, they would also use paint. The paint was made from various natural pigments and put into a dish. The paint stick was taken from the bag, and the men and women sitting on the ground face to face each painted the face of the other. Various designs were made on the face and in the parts of the hair.

Reference: http://omahatribe.unl.edu/etexts/oma.0016/index.html