John Manthei Birch Bark Canister (A, B, C, D, E)

Birch bark canisters made by master woodworker and Folk School Founder John Manthei.

These beautiful and functional containers are built from Alaskan spruce and birch bark. They are airtight and perfect for storage of coffee, tea, spices, or any number of other dry goods. Natural oils in the bark actually work to prevent spoilage, while the dark, air-locked environment inside the canister keeps things from going stale. 

The boxes are held together without glues. Precision fitted parts, tension, and small wooden pegs are all that is needed to make these incredibly tough boxes. In days past these containers held snoose (chewing tobacco) and things like matches and fire starter.