Making Native American Indian Moccasins
C R A F T F O C U S - M O C C A S I N S
Evolution of Moccasin Styles
Native American moccasin design evolved to suit the environment of each tribe's habitat. Hard-sole moccasins, usually made from two or more pieces of hide, are often associated with the western plains and deserts areas. The hard sole of shaped rawhide and fitted leather upper required more tailoring than other types of moccasins, extra work required to protect feet from harsh ground cover. Soft-soled moccasins, often made from a single piece of leather were common in the Eastern Forests. Some soft-soled moccasins from the Plains and Northwest Coast were made from one piece but they were sewed along one the side of the foot rather than the center, as were their Eastern counterparts.
Making Native American Moccasins
Regardless of the type moccasins you wish to make, we have tried to assemble all the available online links and resources to help with the task. As additional information is found or created, we will add it in order to keep this reference current. In addition to the Web resources, we also highlight related products offered by Crazy Crow to make your moccasin craft project easier and the results more assured.
O N L I N E R E F E R E N C E

Overview of Native American Footwear - Moccasins
Native Tech: Discussion of history and origin of Native American footwear. Includes sketch of construction techniques of different styles and overview of materials used in construction and decoration.

Map of North America with Native American Varieties of Moccasins
Native Tech: Map image displays type moccasins by tribal location. Link links to view photo samples of individual moccasins by tribe/location. Fun and informative graphic aid.

How to Make Moccasins and Mukluks
How to make a pair of woodlands style moccasins with fur trim. A free pattern is available in a woman's size 7 (as a PDF file - you will need Acrobat to view).

Instructions for One-Piece, Soft-Sole, Center-Seam Moccasins
Native Tech: Step-by-step instructions for making your own paper pattern and one-piece, soft-sole, center-seam moccasins.

Soft Sole Plains Moccasins - Conservation Commission of Missouri
Instructions & diagrams for making 1-piece soft sole plains moccasins as would be seen in Missouri in the early 1800s. Part of a series of craft projects presented on this organization's website.

History of Shoshone-Bannock Indian Art: Continuity & Change in the Northern Rockies
Beadwork is the best-known art form of Wind River and Fort Hall Shoshones and Bannocks. It is an enduring tradition, but one that has evolved over time. Materials, styles, colors, patterns, symbolism and other characteristics reflect the environment of the beader at the time she or he created their work. This is as true for modern beadworkers as it was in the 19th century. Today, beadwork can literally adorn almost any object, including watch bands, key fobs, baseball caps, wallets, belts, dresses, vests, sport shoes, etc. More traditional forms, of course, include powwow regalia--beaded buckskin dresses, moccasins, traditional pouches and teepee storage bags, leggings, etc.
This page of thumbnails is linked to some of the earliest examples of Shoshone-Bannock beadwork found on clothing and moccasins. Beadwork Index Page 2 provide links to geometric designs on items such as knife sheaths, bags and pouches, pipe bags, and other decorated items. One of the key features of early Shoshone-Bannock beadwork is the overwhelming preference for four basic colors: white, green, blue, and cobalt.

Maas Collection of Native Americana - Moccasin Gallery
Online galleries of both museumquality collections and quality reproductions,including Hopewell pipes, axes& celts, points, bead work, baskets, pottery, and more. This is a private collection, offering many close-up images of beadwork, moccasins (Crow & Cree) and other crafts.

Arapaho Moccasins
From the Museum and Research Center of the American Mountain Men: Article from Tomahawk & Long Rifle. Detailed sketches and description of moccasins, circa 1900.

Brilliantly Beaded - Northeastern Native American Beadwork: Moccasins
The moccasins assembled in this collection represent three distinct forms - a Micmac, Maliseet, Passamaquoddy and Penobscot style in which a wide vamp (toe) is pucker stitched to the sole and the heel portion has a vertical seam up the back; an Iroquoian form in which the heel seams form an upside down “T”; and a Great Lakes type in which a center seam runs down the top of the moccasin.

Judy Kavanagh's Moccasins Collection Gallery
Moccasins from her personal collection, mostly soft-sole, Woodlands. Other galleries are available on this website as well, including Plains moccasins and mukluks.

Native American Moccasins - Related Products
The following items are used in the above-article, or may provide added reference and helpful information.
Click the product link for product detail, quantity price breaks & a larger image.
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Constructing Woodland Moccasins - DVD
Michael Galban - This excellent video teaches all the
techniques to make both center-seam and wide vamp,
pucker-toe Woodland Indian style mocs. From pattern
making to stitching, moccasin making is shown and
described in step-by-step details that will help you
make great looking and authentic Eastern-style,
soft-sole moccasins.
Code: 4085-001-002 Price: 25.00
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Moccasin Making - DVD - Frank White
This great new 55 minute presentation by Frank White is
the perfect companion for the Craft Manual of North
American Indian Footwear, on which it was based.
The complete, step-by-step method of making a pair of
side-seam moccasins is demonstrated here in great,
close-up detail. Also shown and discussed are necessary
tools and supplies, pattern making, leather names and
types, and advanced sewing techniques. By using this video,
you will easily be able to make a nice pair of moccasins
that actually fit!
Code: 4085-001-003 Price: 25.00
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How to Make Moccasins - Plains Indian Hard Sole (DVD)
Native American Video: How to Make Moccasins
An excellent Native American craft video for anyone
interested in making an authentic pair of moccasins.
Very well presented with great close-ups of important steps. You will be guided step
by step through each stage of construction. Includes
emphasis on various American Indian tribal moccasin styles and different
techniques. 30 Min.
Code: 4085-002-033 Price: 19.95
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Indian Lore Seminar Series DVD - CHEYENNE MOCCASIN CHARACTERISTICS
This new series features recorded seminars from some of
the masters of Indian crafts. Each seminar is unedited
or condensed and gives you the full experience of being
there learning with those who were present.
Cheyenne Moccasin Characteristics by Mike
Kostelnik features a very informative discussion
that distinguishes between Northern & Southern Cheyenne
Moccasins and the materials needed to make them.
Code: 4085-007-003 Price: 25.00
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Indian Lore Seminar Series DVD - MOCCASIN CONSTRUCTION TECHNIQUES
This new series features recorded seminars from some of
the masters of Indian crafts. Each seminar is unedited
or condensed and gives you the full experience of being
there learning with those who were present.
Moccasin Construction Techniques by Mike
Kostelnik features a very informative discussion on
the step-by-step process of the actual making of
moccasins.
Code: 4085-007-004 Price: 25.00
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Craft Manual of North American Indian Footwear
How to Make American Indian Moccasins
White - Many types of Native American moccasins are
shown here. Moccasin making techniques from
Navajo and Sioux to Northwest Coast and Southeastern
Woodlands are demonstrated. Includes detailed pattern
layouts and instructions for making many styles.
Contains footwear from over 15 different Native American
Indian tribes. 71 pp: over 100 illustrations and sketches.
SC
Code: 4105-003-042 Price: 8.00
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Whispering Wind Craft Annual #5
Jingle Dress Construction & History, Southern Plains Men's Moccasin Construction, Flat Fan Construction and Copper Bracelets. 46 pages, with 53 color & b/w photos & 60 illustrations.
About Whispering Wind Craft Annuals...
An excellent series focusing on American Indian crafts,
first published in Whispering Wind Magazine, and
reproduced here in original form. Each contains
numerous articles by well-known authors, with excellent
photographs, step-by-step instructions on making the
items listed and all are fully illustrated. Soft Cover.
Code: 4105-045-119 Price: 7.00
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Plains Style Moccasins Pattern
The only authentic Native American moccasin pattern on
the market. Illustrated instructions include helpful hints
on moccasin assembly and show correct decoration for several
Native American tribal styles. Sizes: Mens 7 - 12 and
Womens 5 - 10.
Code: 4799-500-010 Price: 8.95
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Plains Hi-Top Moccasin Pattern
This Native American Plains Hi-Top Moccasin pattern takes
all the guesswork out of moccasin making! Using our simple,
illustrated moccasin instructions, even a beginner can
create a fine looking pair of authentic hi-top leather
moccasins. Moccasin pattern includes correct decoration
information for several Native American tribal styles.
Sizes: Mens 7-12 and Womens 5-10.
Code: 4799-500-011 Price: 8.95
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Cheyenne Moccasins - The Art of Making and Story of Cheyenne Friends (DVD)
Gary Scholl draws on his extensive experience in
researching and making Cheyenne moccasins, which he
learned directly from his highly-skilled Cheyenne friends.
Beginning with a comprehensive overview of the unique
characteristics of Cheyenne moccasins, the author
showcases many examples from his personal collection,
sharing interesting anecdotes about each pair. Complete
with visual instructions, along with practical tips and
tricks, will teach you how to construct a fine pair of
hard-sole moccasins. Materials for uppers and soles, tools,
pattern making, cutting, sewing techniques, turning and
beading are all covered in great detail and shown in
excellent close-ups. These traditional techniques are
easily grasped so that you can make a great pair of
traditional moccasins.
Code: 4085-007-013 Price: 25.00
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Cherokee/Southeastern Moccasins Pattern
Moccasins of the Cherokee and others of the 5 Civilized
Tribes were remarkably similar, changing little from first
European contact to the 1900s. This pattern set with highly
illustrated instructions is loaded with information so you
can make 1 piece soft sole moccasins of the different tribes.
They're really easy and surprisingly quick to make.
Sizes: Men's 4-12 and Women's 5-10.
Code: 4799-500-021 Price: 8.95
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Childs Moccasins Pattern
Many of you have asked for moccasin patterns in kids sizes,
so here they are! Includes sizes from newborn to around 8
years of age, in both hard and soft sole. Complete with
highly detailed, authentic instructions.
Code: 4799-500-206 Price: 8.95
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Plains Hard Sole Moccasin Kit - Adult & Child Sizes
First quality materials for authentic plains moccasins
of the 1800s to today.
Note that the price displayed is for the base
kit. Larger sizes, or buckskin in place of cowhide adds
to the price (as shown in the "Style" drop-down
list.
Base Kit includes:
- 2 thick white latigo soles
- 2 soft pieces of moccasin cowhide (or choose gold buckskin - or smoked German Tanned buckskin) for uppers, tongues & laces
- 1 yard simulated sinew
- illustrated instructions
Code: 4826-01 Price: 35.00
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Plains Hard Sole Moccasin Kit - Cowhide, to size 11
First quality materials for authentic plains moccasins
of the 1800s to today.
Kit includes:
- 2 thick white latigo soles
- 2 soft pieces of moccasin cowhide for uppers, tongues & laces
- 1 yard simulated sinew
- illustrated instructions
Code: 4826-011-301 Price: 35.00
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Northern Plains Softsole Moccasin Kit
This one-piece style moccasin was popular on the Plains in the
pre-1850s.
Note that the price displayed is for
the base kit. Larger sizes, buckskin or elk in place
of cowhide adds to the price (as shown in the "Style" drop-down
list.
Base Kit includes:
- 2 soft pieces of thick moccasin cowhide(or choose gold buckskin or gold elk)
- cowhide for laces & tongues (or choose gold buckskin, smoked German Tanned Buckskin or gold elk)
- needle
- illustrated instructions
Code: 4826-02 Price: 29.50
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Cherokee/Southeastern Moccasin Kit
Cherokee Moccasins, and others of the so-called 5
Civilized Tribes, were remarkably similar, changing little
from first European contact to the 1900s. This
Cherokee/Southeastern Moccasin Kit includes buckskin and
highly illustrated instructions, loaded with information for
making the 1-piece soft sole moccasins of the different
tribes. They are quite easy and suprisingly fast to make.
Sizes: Men's 4 thru 12; Women's: 5 thru 10.
Code: 4826-032-001 Price: 49.00
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Baby Moccasin Kit
"Baby Moccasins" can be readily made for infants and
toddlers using our new kit. Using the 2-piece
construction of a Plains moccasin, we provide soft
buckskin for soles and uppers, simulated sinew and
complete instructions. This Native American moccasin kit
fits little feet up to 5" long.
Code: 4826-053-301 Price: 15.95
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Eastern Woodlands Softsole Moccasin Kit
A typical style of soft Indian moccasin often adopted by
Eastern frontiersmen.
Note that the price displayed is for the base
kit. Larger sizes, or buckskin in place of cowhide adds
to the price (as shown in the "Style" drop-down
list).
Base Kit includes:
- thick moccasin cowhide (or choose gold buckskin or Smoked German Tanned buckskin)
- needle
- simulated sinew
- illustrated instructions
Code: 4827-10 Price: 27.00
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Buckskin High-Top Moccasin Kit
Made from genuine smoke colored buckskin, these leggings
were worn by men and women alike.
Note that the price displayed is for the base
kit. Larger sizes, or white buckskin in place of gold buckskin adds
to the price (as shown in the "Style" drop-down
list.
Base Kit includes:
- 2 thick white latigo soles
- gold buckskin (or select white buckskin or Smoked German Tan buckskin) for uppers tongues & laces
- 6 yards simulated sinew
- glovers needles
- illustrated instructions
Code: 4827-99 Price: 65.00
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Beadwork Moccasin Tops - Sioux Style
Priced per pair
These beaded moccasin tops will save you hours of time,
giving you a pair of nicely beaded moccasins, sneakers,
or aqua shoes with very little effort! These imported
tops feature authentic designs, this lazy stitch
beadwork on heavy canvas panels can be easily sewn to
your finished footwear. Fits mens sizes 6 to 9 but can
be made larger by adding your own row of lazy stitch
after they are attached to the moccasin.
See related products below for other beaded
moccasin top styles.
Code: 8543-600-001 Price: 69.00
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Moccasin Suede Cowhide (7-8 sf)
Good substitute for more expensive buckskin. Shades vary
but this is generally a buckskin color. Hides are heavy.
Code: 1610-002-026 Price: 32.00
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Beads & Beadwork of the American Indians
Orchard - First published in 1929, this is the classic
reference on American Indian beadwork, beginning with
primitive beadmaking techniques, tools and materials
(shell, bone, stone, metal, etc.). Features numerous photos
of clothing articles and tools, plus a multitude of
techniques and variations employed by Native Americans,
such as loom, heddle, lazy stitch, side-stitch, edging,
overlay, & net or gourd-stitch, shown. 168 pages, 41 photos
(16 in color), 136 illustrations. SC.
Code: 4103-006-086 Price: 16.95
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North Woods Moccasins
Our new high-top moccasins are based on actual examples
worn by trading company employees and civilians,
documented from the early 1800s. The early ones were
"solier de bouf" or ox hide shoes, while ours are made
from more comfortable, soft-tanned moose hide. The thick
leather, sewn sueded side out, resembles hand-tanned
hide, while the high-tops afford rugged protection. And
- the best part! - these have double soles, in between
which is a thick inner sole cushion! Expect long wear
from the double-stitched soles with tall heel flap,
just like the originals. At last, you can have both
authentic-looking footwear AND comfort.
Code: 4511-201 Price: 115.00
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Taos Trapper Moccasins - Tan
These exceptionally high-quality moccasins are the most
authentic old-style southwest Indian footwear
available. They're perfect for the Taos Trapper, as
well as everyday use. Completely hand-sewn and
constructed with thick, rugged leather soles and
cowhide uppers. When broken in, these mocs will mold
so comfortably to your feet, they'll feel like socks.
You'll get years of wear, whether working in the woods or
around the house. Ideal for men or women and available
in sizes 5 through 12.
Code: 4511-102 Price: 125.00
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M A T E R I A L S & S U P P L I E S
Click any link below to view detailed product and ordering information.
Leather for Moccasin Uppers
Buckskin - Commercial Tan - white, gold, willow; sizes from 4-6 sf - 14-16 sf
Smoked German-Tan Buckskin - best quality for moccasins & clothes
Elk Hides - white, gold; sizes from 10-13 sf - 16-19 sf
Cowhide - various types & grades; good substitute for more expensive deer & elk

Leather for Moccasin Soles
Moccasin Soles: White Latigo - heavy leather, approx 1/4" thick; tough & long wearing
White Latigo Sides - avg size 20-22 sf; great idea if doing lots of mocs

Needles Thread Lacing
Glovers Needles - heavy needles with sharp triangular edges for sewing hides
Sharps Needles - short, stiff needles best suited for lazy stich or applique beading
Genuine Sinew - clean & ready for use in craft projects - the 'original' thread!
Simulated Sinew - excellent substitute for the real thing, extremely strong

Seed Beads
Czech Seed Beads - 10/0 - 14/0 sizes
'Tin' Cones
Genuine Tin Cones - sizes: ¾", 1", 1-1/8", 1¼"
Aluminum Cones - sizes: ¾", 1", 1-1/8", 1¼"
Brass Cones - sizes: ¾", 1", 1-1/8", 1¼"

Tools
Scratch Awls - hardwood handle, life-saver when you need needle holes to make sewing easier
Scissors - assorted styles, high carbon stainless scissors make cutting leather
Bead Graph Paper - developed by Crazy Crow for lazy stitch used on moccasins

Other Items for Moccasins
Buckskin Cleaner - white clay balls used to clean white buckskin
