Thanks to our friends at the Wandering Bull we have a video tutorial on how to make a Bias Weave Belt.
This method, known for its intricate design and beautiful patterns, is a traditional technique used in creating belts, chokers, and necklaces. We’ll be following along with Chris Bulock from The Wandering Bull LLC, a long-standing family-owned business specializing in Native American craft supplies.
Let's get started!
Background of The Wandering Bull
Before we jump into the how-to, here’s a bit about The Wandering Bull.
Started over 50 years ago, this business has grown into one of the largest Native American craft suppliers in the country. Chris and his wife Carolyn now run the business, offering a wide range of products, including craft materials, contemporary art, and antiques. Their passion for Native American crafts shines through, not just in their products, but in the way they share their knowledge with others.
Materials You'll Need
To make your bias weave belt, you'll need the following materials:
- Deerskin Leather: Soft and flexible, perfect for crafting.
- Beading Needles (10/0): Thin needles designed for threading beads.
- Imitation Sinew: A waxed nylon cord that is strong and durable.
- Reproduction Clay Wampum Beads: These beads are used to create the pattern on your belt.
- Glover's Needle: Optional but recommended for working with leather.
Getting Started: The Basics
Step 1: Preparing Your Materials
- Start with a piece of deerskin leather. Ensure it's soft to make threading easier.
- You’ll need four beading needles threaded with imitation sinew. Chris suggests doubling the sinew to give you two strands for extra strength.
- The first step is spacing out where your four needles will go. This will be the foundation for your weave.
Step 2: The First Row
- Begin by threading four white beads onto the sinew. Let’s call the holes where the needles will go through: 1, 2, 3, and 4.
- With your first thread, insert the needle into hole 1. For the second needle, split the two threads and insert it into hole 2. Repeat this process for holes 3 and 4.
- This first row is the trickiest, so be patient as you get the hang of it.
Step 3: Continuing the Weave
- After completing your first row, thread another set of four beads and repeat the process. You’ll always want to split the threads to secure the beads in place.
- Keep your work tight, but not too tight—this will ensure the beads lie flat without bunching up.
Step 4: Adding Color
- Once you’ve got a few rows of white beads down, it’s time to introduce color. Chris demonstrates with purple beads, adding them in between rows of white beads. The alternating colors create a beautiful pattern.
- Remember, the more beads you want in a row, the more threads you’ll need. If you're aiming for a wider belt, start with a smaller project like a bracelet to practice before scaling up.
Finishing Your Belt
Step 5: Wrapping It Up
- As you near the end of your project, keep it symmetrical by finishing with the same number of rows and colors you started with.
- To secure the beads and threads, Chris recommends using a piece of leather lace. He suggests tying off the threads with double knots to keep them secure. The imitation sinew, being waxed, can be slippery, so doubling up on knots helps.
- Use a Glover's needle to punch small holes in the leather, and carefully tie off the ends. If you’re making a necklace or choker, the length of the leather lace will also serve as your tie.
Final Tips from Chris
- Start Small: If you’re new to this technique, begin with a smaller project to avoid frustration.
- Quality Matters: Keeping your work neat and tight will result in a higher-quality finished product.
- Tools of the Trade: A Glover's needle can make working with leather easier, but be cautious—it's very sharp!
Conclusion
And there you have it!
You’ve just created a beautiful bias weave belt using traditional Native American techniques. Whether you’re making a choker, necklace, or belt, this method is a wonderful way to create something unique and meaningful.
For more supplies, tips, and tutorials, be sure to visit The Wandering Bull's website. They’ve got everything you need to get started on your next project. And if you ever have questions, Chris and Carolyn are just a phone call away!
