Trails Center to host porcupine quillwork class in May

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (Wyoming News Now) - You may know sewing, knitting, or crocheting but have you ever tried...porcupine quillwork?

The National Historic Trails Interpretive Center will host a workshop on porcupine quillwork from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on May 20.

The day will be led by special guest Melissa Connely as she teaches the basics of quillwork from start to finish.

Porcupine quills can be dyed into many colors and sewn, wrapped, or woven to make intricate patterns to adorn clothing or other objects. Supplies will be provided, and participants can try their hand at the craft with a quill kit they get to take home. The workshop is geared toward adults and older teens, especially those with an interest in Native American history and art.

“Prior to 1840, porcupine quillwork was the primary form of decoration for many Native American tribes in the western United States,” says Connely. “People will have the chance to learn this ancient artform and keep the tradition alive.”

The class is free, but limited to 15 participants and spots are expected to fill quickly. To register, see the following link: https://forms.office.com/g/zWeURaH4Nm.

Connely has shared her passion of quillwork for nearly 40 years. In her youth, she danced at powwows and taught dancing and craft-making to various groups of people at workshops near her home in Casper. She is currently the president of the Wyoming State Muzzleloaders Association and is a professional geologist, managing her own consulting business.

For more information, please call the Trails Center at 307-261-7700.

The National Historic Trails Interpretive Center is open 7 days a week from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. MST.