Preparing Genuine Sinew for Sewing

Before the introduction of threads and commercial needles to Native craftspeople, sinew was used for most sewing needs. Using genuine sinew for crafting is encouraged because, along with the use of native materials such as rawhide and braintan buckskin, it is the mark of the finest traditional craftsmanship. Stronger than any thread, sinew is used in both fine and heavy applications; from sewing quills and beads, to making bows and rope. Genuine sinew used as thread can be prepared wet or dry. This information sheet describes one technique using water that will allow you to convert a sinew piece into threads for future use.

This same technique for separating a strand can be applied to a dry piece of sinew, taking only the thread that you will use at the moment. However, soaking in water until pliable and preparing threads ahead of time may be an easier method for some craftworkers. For a great visual demonstration on the use of sinew dry, view the video Lakota Quillwork: Art and Legend available from Native American Visions

	Step 1: Soak the sinew piece in room temperature water until soft and pliable. Step 2: Grasp the sinew by the sides, and begin working it with your hands in a twisting motion back and forth until the fibers begin to separate. This will take some work as the fibers are held together by natural glues.
	Step 3: Peel strands one at a time off the piece in the thickness you desire.
	Step 4: While still wet and pliable, hold the end of a strand in the fingertips of one hand while rolling the strand down the top of your thigh to twist it. Put a knot in one end, and form the other end into a pointed tip. Twisting and knotting the strand while still wet allows you to work the sinew easily.
	Finished! These dried threads are now ready for sewing. Techniques include prepunching the material with an awl then pushing the sinew’s pointed tip through, or threading the strand through a conventional needle.