The puzzle pouch is a medium-sized buckskin and wool bag used to securely hold valuables such as tobacco, money, silver, and other ceremonial belongings. It is heavily decorated with beadwork and difficult to get into (hence the term “puzzle pouch”) and was commonly used by many tribes in the Great Lakes regions during the seventeenth through nineteenth centuries. In this course, students will sew a puzzle pouch using smoked buckskin prepared by the instructor and his family. Greg Biskakone Johnson is an Anishinaabe cultural practitioner from Lac du Flambeau, Wisconsin, who teaches a variety of traditional crafts throughout the Upper Midwest. He infuses his teaching with stories and insights into modern Anishinaabe life.  

Optional Tools

• Bring a favorite pair of sharp scissors or other leather sewing and beadwork tools if you have them.
• Bring reading glasses if you need them.