How Long Does It Take to Make a Totem Pole? - A Guide for Parents and Kids

Creating a totem pole is a fascinating process that involves several steps and can take quite a bit of time. Here’s a step-by-step look at how long it can take to make a totem pole:

1. Planning and Design: Before starting, an artist will spend time planning the design of the totem pole. This might include choosing which symbols to use and how to arrange them. This step can take a few days to weeks, depending on how detailed the design is.
2. Gathering Materials: Next, the artist needs to gather materials, usually wood from trees like cedar. Finding the right wood and preparing it can take another few days.
3. Carving the Totem: This is the most time-consuming part, as the artist carves the wood into the designs. Depending on the size and detail, this can take anywhere from several weeks to months. Some very large totem poles might take even longer!
4. Finishing Touches: After carving, the artist will often paint and add specific finishes to protect the wood. This step might take another few days to weeks.

Overall, making a totem pole can take from a few weeks to several months to complete, depending on the complexity and size of the design. Each totem pole is unique and showcases the culture and story of the people who create it!