Tanning Background

I have been learning and practicing the art of making all natural braintan buckskin for 12 years. I began while living near Whitehorse, Yukon, working over the winter of '96 with a local wildlife fur and leather tanner at his shop, Tutshi Tanning. There I became acquainted with the outer portion of just about every creature on four legs that moves over this fair land.

I brought my skills and interest back home to Manitoba where deer are abundant and the buffalo roam and practiced to develop proficiency in the natural braintan method. I started tanning a few more hides each year for local hunters and craftsmen until I fully dedicated myself to this ancient art full-time in November 2004. Using all natural materials, I have spent years perfecting my process the hard way, gaining experience through much hands on patience and persistence, always learning and always looking for ways to improve my techniques. Many thanks to braintan.com for insight, encouragement, and assistance.

Respecting our Environment

Having always had an affinity for our forest cousins, I honour and respect the hunted animal by utilizing the hides which otherwise are often discarded. I use natural methods and materials which do not pollute or poison the air, land, or water. I am active in supporting local Wildlife Associations to maintain and preserve the necessary habitat of our resident deer population.

A History of Tradition

Buckskin leather is soft, strong, and durable. It has been made and used for as long as people have been wearing animals. It was, for many people, the only garment textile. Using animal hides for shelter and clothing bound cultures and communities together with the herds that sustained them.

Tanning hides was traditionally women's work, and it is with honour and great respect I am following their lead. When you have scraped and stretched a 150 pound bison hide, you too will acknowledge the enormous strength and endurance of the women of the past who provided clothing and shelter for their communities.

Working together with many different 1st Nations elders and teachers, I have hosted demonstrations, presented to many school classes and given personal lessons and instruction to individuals of courage and fortitude who want to tan their own hides or build their own drum, and I find it rewarding and inspiring to see the art in action under new hands, learning the old ways. Please contact me for more information and rates for workshops, seminars, and teaching programs.