Quillwork

Porcupine quills have long been a tradition for the woodland tribes in the decoration of various items. By soaking the quills they become pliable and are then flattened, bent, and stitched down using a variety of techniques.Patterns and motifs were either geometric in design or depicted various animals.Quillwork is a very time consuming art. After the American Revolution the woodland tribes basically gave up quillwork and replaced it with tiny glass seedbeads which were easier and faster to use. I employ the basic old style quill techniques to produce my 18th century reproductions. They are all stitched to smoked brain tanned deer hide dyed a brown hue using walnut hull dye I make. Even though I don't make moccasins, I can do the quillwork on them for you.

Legging Ties

Knife Sheaths

Shoulder Bags

Neck Pouches

Quillwork Straps