Archaeological discoveries

What Materials are used to make a tepee?

The traditional materials used to make a tepee are:

1. Lodgepole pine poles: These long, straight poles are used for the framework of the tepee. They are typically harvested in the spring when the sap is flowing, and they are then cured for several months before being used.

2. Buffalo hide: Buffalo hides were traditionally used for the tepee cover. They are tanned to make them soft and waterproof, and they are then sewn together into large panels. The panels are then attached to the framework of the tepee with rawhide thongs.

3. Rawhide: Rawhide is used to lash the poles of the tepee together and to attach the cover to the frame. Rawhide is made by scraping and drying animal skins.

4. Insulating materials: Grass, leaves, or other insulating materials are often used to insulate the tepee. These materials help to keep the tepee warm in cold weather and cool in hot weather.