This two-part foundational workshop teaches the basics of finger weaving alongside the history of the Métis Voyageurs. The art of finger weaving originated among the First Nations people in the Eastern Woodlands of Turtle Island (Canada). As trade began, nations began trading for wool with the French and the finger woven belts became more colourful and elaborate. As the trade grew and expanded, the voyageurs of the fur trade adopted the use of these belts as well. Many voyageurs took wives from First Nation communities, the descendants of these unions formed a distinct culture, language and community - and so the Métis were born of the fur trade. As generations passed, these finger woven sash’s became a part of the Métis nation. To this day the sash, and the art of finger weaving, has become an integral part of our Métis culture and one of our proudest traditions.

The morning part of this workshop we will learn the foundation of finger weaving and the history behind it and how it relates to Métis culture and identity today. After a traditional lunch, we will paint decorative paddles together and learn about the history of the voyageurs and reflect on the urbanization of waterfront along the Great Lakes and the impact it has on communities of past and present.