From My Roots Beading

This year, was our 10th anniversary of Camping at Clearwater Lake in The Pas. We always stop at the Sam Waller Museum. Here are some pieces tucked away in the display drawers we found.

🤞😬

Please mark this on your calendar, we would love to have you join us in Winnipeg MB for our 3rd anual Awareness walk...

Found these amongst my father in law’s belongings today. Interestingly enough, I have looked into a course on how to make them.

Split Toe Moccasins

Taanishi. Boon matayn 🙂
Hello. Good morning.

Well, the first panel of my vest is complete. Got the “Mouse tracks” done. Now, onto the other panel.

I will get back to making my Tuppi once I finish my vest. 🙂.

Métis History Tidbit.

**** Please keep in mind this is MY Artistic Rendering. ****

"Tuppies" (from the Michif word tapii, derived from the French tapis, meaning "rug") are intricately decorated blankets made by the Métis to drape over sled dogs during the fur trade era and beyond.

Originally designed as a celebratory sign of wealth, community, and respect for dog kin, tuppies have a rich and significant history:

Materials & Design:

They were typically made of heavy wool or felt. Métis women—who were renowned for their beadwork and quillwork—lavishly decorated them with bright, floral silk embroidery, intricate beading, ribbons, and jingle bells.

Purpose & Tradition:

While they provided a bit of extra warmth, tuppies were largely intended for show. When a Métis dog team approached a fur trading post or village, the jingling bells and bright colors would announce their arrival.

It was a massive point of pride for a driver to have a well-decorated team.

Historical Representation:

Sled dogs pulling "carioles" (lightweight winter sleighs) were essential for transporting passengers and mail.

The distinctive look of Métis sleds and dogs in their tuppies was famously documented by early 19th-century artists like Peter Rindisbacher and William Armstrong.

Modern Revitalization:

After being suppressed by the impacts of colonialism and the residential school system, this sacred art form is experiencing a major cultural revival.

Contemporary Indigenous and Métis artists are actively recreating tuppies to reconnect with their heritage and honor the dog trains that ensured their ancestors' survival.

Back to school is getting closer… 😫
Enter into our Back to School
School Supplies and Snacks Raffle.
Contact Jen Prier Klimack for tickets