Ojibwa Snowshoes: Build Your Own

In this immersive and comprehensive five-day course you will learn to construct a steam box for bending the ash frames, build the forms upon which you will bend the ash frames, assemble and lace your own set of traditional Ojibwa style snowshoes. Pointed at both ends, this snowshoe design is efficient for travel through both wooded areas or open areas. We will cover the finishing of the snowshoes and bindings during the course. These will be on your own after the course.

Days 1 – 2 : February 9 and 10 from 9 am – 5 am
Students will explore the history, use and construction of the Ojibwa Snowshoe as well as other styles. Working in teams of two you will construct a steam box as well as two sets of forms. Upon completion of both you will select ash frames, steam them and attach to your newly completed forms. Students will return the following week to pull the frames and construct your new snowshoes.

Days 3-5 : February 16-18 from 9 am – 5 am
Students will pull their frames off the forms, assemble them, select crosspieces and mortise them into the frames with simple hand tools and learn techniques for lacing their shoes using lightweight, hollowed nylon cord. Students will leave with a completed set of snowshoes perfected and proven over generations for use in our Upper Midwest winters, ready for finishing and to receive the bindings of your choice.

Students who work quickly or feel confident in completing their work at home could plan to leave earlier than 5pm on the last day.

Required Tools
We request you bring the following to the course. All other tools will be provided.
Tape measure
Pencil
Lightweight gloves of leather or other thin, tactile material

Lunch is included each day, with dietary restrictions and preferences being honored.

This course requires students to stand for much of the day and have moderate hand strength.

This course is open to youth ages 12+ if accompanied by a full-paying adult. A 25% tuition discount applies to the youth participant.

Discount Code for Teens: TEENDISCOUNT25