This useful book contains complete illustrated instructions on all of the basics of Beadwork and Leather crafts of the American Indian and the early frontier. It is the second in a series on Traditional Indian Crafts and was written in answer to numerous requests for a "how to do it" book that would not only cover the basics of the traditional crafts of the American Indian, but would also present illustrated step-by-step instructions on how to do those crafts. The book has two objectives: To provide a clear, concise guide to the person who simply wants to make a nice attractive pouch or bag and to serve as a "primer" on the basics of traditional beadwork and leathercrafts of Native Americans for the craftsperson who wants to understand the techniques involved and, thereby, be able to construct other items using them. 
Each project was written independent of all the others and will allow you to make any one item without reading the total book. Projects described include Leather Pouch, Strike-A-Lite Pouch, Knife Sheath, Beaded Sioux Pouch, Scissors Pouch, Beaded Crow Pouch, Fringed Pouch, Beaded Awl Case, Quilled Pipe Bag, Fringed Possibles Bag, Fringed Mirror Pouch, and Gage d'More Pouch. 
In addition, craft techniques described include all the basics of working with and sewing leather, beading techniques such as edging, the lazy stitch, running stitch, "crow" stitch, spot stitch (for making rosettes), and return stitch, and the preparation and use of porcupine quills for quill wrapping. All of the pouches, bags and containers described may also be made without adornment if the craftsperson so chooses. 
This book is designed so that even the beginning craftsman can create authentic Indian and frontier crafts with ease and learn the basic techniques while doing so! 137 illustrations; 15 B&amp;W photographs, 4 pages in full color; index.

Traditional Indian Bead and Leather Crafts

Arts & Photography

Smith, Monte

Van Sickle, Michele

Fashion

Eagles View Publishing

Porcupine quillwork is an art form that is unique to the Indians of North America and, before the introduction of seed beads by Europeans, was the method of decoration that was most common. After the Indians were given beads this craft all but disappeared, except in the most ceremonial kinds of adornment. Still, the craft was handed down from generation to generation and recently there has been a renewed interest in this craft among Indians and non-Indians alike. The modern-day "mountain man" and the traditionally-oriented Indian share a desire to possess and create articles decorated with the quills of the porcupine. 
 In 1917, William C. Orchard (Heye Foundation) wrote his classic, The Technique of Porcupine Quill Decoration Among the Indians of North America, and this book became the definitive work on porcupine quillwork. Since that time very few books have been published about this unique American art form, but none have gone beyond Orchard and attempted to explain exactly how quillwork is done, how to master the necessary techniques or what the secrets are that are needed to do quality craftwork. Jean Heinbuch has now written an excellent book that does just that. 
 This book starts with the basics of finding and preparing the quills. The author even presents a technique (not recommended) for obtaining quills from live porcupines; she, of course, explores more conventional ways as well. A good explanation of the necessary tools follows with photographs. 
 Her chapter on General Work Instructions and Basic Stitches is designed to help the reader understand the basic steps upon which the more difficult techniques are built. She is liberal with her advice in keeping things simple and divulges many of the secrets she has discovered over the past eighteen years. With Orchard as a starting point, she has examined numerous museum pieces in her search for the proper techniques. 
 The reader is encouraged to master the techniques in the Basic Quilling Techniques Chapter and the book is designed so that each step builds upon the next. Of general interest are the diverse techniques that Native Americans used (use) to create rosettes. The book also includes a fine explanation of the steps used to make brain tanned rawhide and leather, and has a much needed disclosure of how to prepare and use natural dyes on quills. Advanced techniques are explained in text, illustrations and photographs. 
 This exciting book of ninety-two pages contains 53 black and white photographs, 4 full pages in four color, 39 figures, 2 tables and 115 illustrations. 
 A text that should be of interest to anyone who enjoys traditional arts and crafts, the culture of the American Indian and the early lifestyle of Native Americans. It may well be the new definitive source of this beautiful art form.

A Quillwork Companion: An Illustrated Guide to Techniques of Porcupine Quill Decoration

Jean Heinbuch

Parenting & Relationships

One of the most romanticized and misunderstood people and eras is that of the Plains Indian prior to the arrival of the white man. The noble savage and the bloodthirsty barbarian are but two of the more widely known stereotypes of the Plains Indian, portrayed often and pervasively by TV and movies. 
William Higbie has written a story for young people to help dispel those images. In his simply told story, it becomes clear that the people of the pre-1800 American Plains dealt with the same human condition as we do, although their lifestyle was in many ways far different than ours. 
The story centers around Bull Calf, a young man of thirteen, who faces leaving his childhood behind and moving into the adult society in which he lives. His quest for manhood is the theme of this story, woven into a well-researched and accurate background of Plains Indian life. 
Bull Calf's story begins, symbolically, with the birth of his sister, and the death of his mother. As he leaves behind his boyhood, he moves into a new life, complete with a new name and identity. It is as if he is reborn, separated from his past in many ways. 
After seeking his own personal vision in which the otter appears to him and becomes his own source of strength, Bull Calf becomes Otter Circle. In western Native American belief, the otter is a powerful and symbolic animal, which Otter Circle would be expected to safeguard in turn. He wears a charm of otter fur for protection, as well as for a reminder of his personal power source. Higbie describes very accurately within the narrative, the process of initiation through which young Native American males passed. 
Once he has obtained his own vision, Otter Circle is able to join in the tasks of manhood. The first is to join his father, who seeks a new wife, in a horse raid on a nearby village. Some of the horses gained in this dangerous mission will be used as a gift to obtain Otter Circle's new mother from her father. 
Otter Circle faces danger, and is saved by a friend who becomes his "brother" by so doing. Not so fortunate is Two Eagles, a young bully who rashly tries to prove his manhood by a daring deed and does not return from the raid, his fate unknown. This incident points up the strong belief in Native American culture that placed the good of the community above self-importance. 
The feelings and fears of Otter Circle as he leaves his childhood behind are common to all young people, despite the differences in societies. Moving from one phase of life to another can be difficult, and young people will identify with the issues with which Otter Circle deals. 
Higbie's first book is a well-written story for young people which contains 26 pen and ink illustrations that provide an accurate and authentic imagery to accompany the prose. 
In a straight-forward, enjoyable style, Higbie's book is an excellent introduction to Plains Indian life that leaves behind the myths and stereotypes. Both adults and young people of both sexes will enjoy this book. It will make an excellent addition to the library of anyone who would like an interesting, factual portrayal of the life of the Native American of the Plains prior to the arrival of the white man.

A Circle of Power

Teen & Young Adult

William F. Higbie

Melissa MacKinnon

Literature & Fiction

Circle of Power

Higbie, William F.

"You know, in the old days, folks was pretty good at yarnin'. That was before they got the notion that their entertainment had to be packaged for 'em slick and easy. Nowadays, people don't seem to tell tales like they uster, nor pick and sing so much neither, and that ain't right. 
"Well, I believe that I have made some fine stories for you and that you'll laff most beautifully. Why some folks has told me that these tales is more fun than a painted monkey, and pretty soon I guess you'll judge for yourself. If you like 'em, maybe you'll tell 'em around one o' your campfires". 
Thus begins The Hair Of The Bear, a knee-slapping collection of yarns and short stories which recall the independent, adventurous lifestyle and outlandish humor of the early American frontier. Some of the tales are written in correct English and some in the joyous, reckless language often ascribed to rugged pioneer individuals. Previous knowledge or interest in this era is not required to enjoy these stories, which should appeal to all ages. The stories focus on exploits in the wild outdoors and are characterized by surprise, deception and exaggeration. Most are intentionally situated in an imprecise time frame and can be read with either a contemporary or 19th century frame of reference. 
The book contains 23 stories ranging in length from two to fifteen pages, starting with a glossary in story form to familiarize readers with the frontier terminology used throughout the rest of the book. Bunyanesque dilemmas and animal adversaries such as buffaloes, bears and snakes abound. The more imposing and dangerous the obstacles and the animals, the more interesting the story. Most are illustrated by one of 23 pen and ink line drawings by noted artist Tom Elisii. 
Titles include: The Great Buffler Chase, How I Saved My Life By Shooting Myself, A Narrow Escape, Delivered From The Spirit Trail, The Catamount And The Big Swallow, Fresh Bait, The Track Of The Windigo, A Pilgrim's Progress, My Disagreement With A Sarpent, Uncle Eef's Rifle, Checkmate, A Strong Attraction, Outfoxed, How I Acted In My Own Defense, Freezin' Times, A Favor Repaid, Ol' Broken Wind, Prospecting On The Winneanimus, Bat-Eye's Last Laugh, A Partnership, Pickbone's Victory Dash, Semi-Glossary, and A Rancantankerous Rifle Barrel.

The Hair of the Bear: Campfire Yarns and Short Stories

Eric A. Bye

United States

Creative Crafts by Marj

Crafts, Hobbies & Home

Marj Schneider

Crafts & Hobbies

New and innovative bead stringing projects that utilize craft cord and a variety of large-hole beads, are presented in this exciting new book. Craft cord is the braided material often used for stitching on plastic canvas. When these projects are embellished with conchos, feathers and other finery, they represent an entirely new look in jewelry and home decorative items. The Craft Cord Corral concept uses readily available materials and basic craft techniques. It can easily be mastered by beginners, yet the complexity of the designs and professional-looking results make it attractive to more experienced crafters as well. The complete step-by-step directions are easy to follow and each project is well illustrated with clear, concise drawings. There is a "hints" section and an illustrated knotting guide at the beginning of the book. Substitutions can be made in the suggested materials to create entirely different effects. For instance, colored leather thong can be used in place of craft cord; also, using different types or colors of beads can change the entire look of a pattern. Once the techniques presented in this book are learned they can be used to create new and original designs. Projects included are the Thunderbird Choker Necklace, Flower Necklace and Earring Set, Dream Catcher Necklace, Halloween Cat Necklace, Pumpkin Bell Necklace, Christmas Tree Necklace and Earring Set, Red & White Necklace and Earring Set, Eye Glass Chain, White and Gold Belt, Butterfly Waist Cincher, Concho Belt and Earring Set, Southwest Key Chain, Heart Concho Key Chain and Dream Catcher. Everyone, be they young or old, beginner or seasoned veteran, will have fun making these projects and will see results of which they can be proud! 54 illustrations; 7 B&W photographs; 4 pages in full color.

Craft Cord Corral: Bead Stringing Projects for Everyone

Janice S. Ackerman

Pick it up and dig in! In this collection of Sig's pictorial beading designs, you will find pure gold and her newest treasure trove just begs to be mined. Book III celebrates special occasions through the year, but don't be limited by labels; use images like Hearts, Love, Champagne, Fireworks, Doves, and Flags to celebrate personal special occasions; a little thought and all kinds of original uses will pop up. There are 46 color-coded patterns with complete, easy-to-follow instructions, illustrations and 8 pages of color photos. Make these designs to wear, make them as gifts or make them to sell, but make them! Every beader should own this book! 
Designs to celebrate special occasions are: New Years - Champagne Bottle and Pink Elephant; Valentines Day - Love, Bouquet and Hearts; St. Patricks Day - Irish Beer and Leprechaun; Easter - Calvary, Dove, Lily, Hatching Chick, Duckling, and Easter Bunny; Fourth of July - Eagle and Flag, Flag, Fireworks, and USA; Halloween - Pumpkin, Bat, RIP, Dracula, Witch Face, Ghost, Crescent Moon and Black Cat; Thanksgiving - Turkey and Autumn Leaves; Chanukah - Menorah and Star of David; Christmas - Rudolph, Wreath, Christmas Candle, Christmas Tree, Santa, Santa Face, Santa Profile, Chickadee, Angel, Snowman, Candy Cane, Santa in Chimney, and Holly. Weddings can be celebrated with designs for Bride and Groom and new babies can be welcomed with Baby Bottle and Stork with Baby designs. 
Sig has been beading for more than 16 years and has taught beadwork for the past 10 years. This is the third in her series of best selling books and she is a contributing designer to a successful line of beading kits and to several beading magazines. She loves corresponding with her readers. 
63 illustrations and patterns; 8 pages in full color.

Earring Designs by Sig III: Celebrations

Sigrid Wynne-Evans

A new and exciting book for those interested in traditional Native American dress and for anyone who wants to know how to make use of their own deerskins and other animal skins, in either a traditional or modern manner. The information in this 176 page volume is extensive, well researched and fascinating to read! 
 This book first explores the Traditional Dress of Native Americans in the nine major cultural areas of North America, with an emphasis on everyday or “work” clothes. Individual items of clothing are then discussed in detail. Among the many items included are skirts &amp; aprons from a variety of materials, dresses of many styles, capotes, robes, breechclouts, leggings, shirts, breastplates, parkas, hats, moccasins cradleboards and sandals. Selected pieces of dress clothing, primarily from the Plains, are also discussed. Included are drawings, patterns and ideas for making replicas of primitive clothing. There are also sections on how some people currently live in buckskin year round and surprising facts about native clothing. 
 Buckskin Today describes clothing made in modern times in both period and modern styles. Most of the items in this section were submitted to the author by others and there is a wide range of ideas (from one skin skirts to fur mittens and hats to modern buckskin jackets and coats). Explanations are given on how each piece was made. In addition bags, pouches and parfleche are covered and there are tips for sewing and cleaning buckskin. 
 Tanning Buckskins and Fur emphasizes Indian brain tanning methods including dry-scrape and wet-scrape techniques. Coloring and dyeing hides are described and there is an extensive discussion of the physical structure of deerskin. Other tanning methods included are Ivory® soap buckskin and acid tanning techniques. Over 100 references on these subjects are provided. 
 Extensive research makes this book a very useful reference for anyone interested in Native American or self-reliant lifestyles, as well as for those who attend pow wows and rendezvous.

Traditional Clothing of the Native Americans

Gibby, Evard H.

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