Sámi Crafts

Traditional Sámi Crafts

I like to make traditional style Sámi crafts based on the heritage of my ancestors. Sámi handicraft or duodji has a long tradition dating back a thousand years. The Saami make crafts that have both beauty and function.
I purchase all of my materials from Sámi suppliers in Sweden and Finland.

In addition to my handmade products, I now am able to supply traditional Sámi materials for those who would like to make their own Sámi products for their own use. These are available for purchase in my WEB SHOP.

Pewter Thread

Saami tenntrådsbroderi – ancestral crafts in a modern age. Tenntrådsbroderi or Tin Thread embroidery was crafted by the Sámi since the 1600’s. The pewter or tin thread was made by melting pewter plates and spinning the tin into yarn. The tin was often drawn or pulled through a diz and spun with the teeth. The tin yarn was then used for embroidery to decorate trims for clothing, make jewellery and other items.

Pewter Thread Spinning
Pewter Thread Spinning

Reindeer Leather

Reindeer leather is a precious commodity. and hard to get. Reindeer leather is a precious commodity that is difficult to source. Most of the reindeer hides are used by the Saami people for their own clothing and personal use. I am only able to purchase the reindeer leather in small quantities that are sold as scrap leather. I stitch the small pieces together in order to make purses, pouches, reindeer bracelets and other items.

Reindeer Leather Recycling
Reindeer Leather Recycling

Sami style bracelets made with woven bands, fish skins, reindeer leather and pewter embroidery.

Sami Band Weaving
Woven narrow bands using pure wool and traditional Sami patterns.

Bags and Cases

Bags, purses, pouches and cases are useful items and can be used for many purposes. These bags are made using traditional Sami materials: wool vadmal, reindeer leather or fish leather and decorated with colourful Sami bands or pewter tin embroidery.
Sami Reindeer Leather Coffee Bags
Coffee was important to the Sami. Everyone carried a special coffee bag on their belt and the first person to arrive at a new camp had the responsibility to make coffee for the others.

Reindeer Leather Purses and Handbags

Reindeer Leather Vadmal Coin Wallets
Reindeer Leather Vadmal Coin Wallets

Fish Skin and Reindeer Leather Pouches and Wallets

Newsletter

I am updating this website on a regular basis with new hand dyed yarns, handwoven items and other products. If you would like to keep informed of the latest developments, please Subscribe to my new Newsletter.

Changes in a Changing World

PAYMENTS

All payments are now processed by PAYPAL. I can now accept payment in GBP, USD, CAD and EURO.

INTERNATIONAL ORDERS

International orders sometimes require additional taxes to be paid. I do not have the infrastructure to collect these taxes and submit them to your government, so please be aware that you may be charged taxes or duties on receiving the goods. If you would like these taxes to be charged at the time of your purchase, please visit my Etsy Shop. Päivätär ™