How to Make a Dance Shield – A Step-by-Step Guide from The Wandering Bull

Have you ever wanted to create your own dance shield?

Our friends at The Wandering Bull are back with another craft tutorial.

Be sure to visit their site for more information and all the needed material for your next craft project.

Whether you're looking to add something meaningful to your regalia, decorate your space with traditional Native designs, or just enjoy a hands-on craft project, Chris from The Wandering Bull walks you through the process in a great how-to video.

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Start with the Right Materials

Chris uses a 14-inch round blank made from heavy cow leather. It’s thick, durable, and just the right size to carry or hang as a decoration. Traditionally, shields like these were made from bison rawhide, especially from the hump area, which provided the thickest leather. If you're going for a historical approach, rawhide is a great alternative.

Add Your Personal Touch

Before adding anything else, Chris paints the front of his shield with a feather design using acrylic paints. He suggests doing any painting ahead of time so you’re not working around other decorations.

Tip: Think about a design that means something to you—whether it’s a family symbol, spiritual imagery, or a tribute to your tribe or ancestors.

Attach the Wool Trim

Next, Chris cuts a strip of red wool and wraps it around the top of the shield. He whip-stitches it into place using deer skin lace, tying a knot at the end to secure it. This gives the shield a bold, traditional look and adds some soft movement.

Add Arm Straps

To carry the shield, you’ll need straps. Chris shows how to punch holes on either side of the back, spaced around where your wrist and forearm would sit. Using lace or even rawhide, you create loops that your arm can slide through.

Decorate

One of the highlights of the video is seeing Chris add decorations like imitation grizzly claws and feathers. He wraps feathers with leather and thread, adds red wool around the tops, and ties them to the shield’s lace straps.

Shields like these are often used by modern traditional dancers today—not for battle, but as beautiful pieces of regalia or as part of their dance outfits. You’ll also see them used as wall art or meaningful gifts.

Want to Make One Yourself?

Chris and The Wandering Bull sell blank shields on their website, made from the same heavy cow leather he uses in the video. These are a great starting point if you want to create your own dance shield at home.