A LITTLE FIRST NATIONS HISTORY

Prior to European contact, Native regalia was as unique as the tribe that wore it. For example, buckskin breechcloth, leggings, dresses were fairly common among the Plains and Woodland people. These would be made in accordance with the weather, fur-lined trousers, leggings and dresses were for colder climates.  Other factors included the environment and territory, with access to various animal skins, such as deer, moose, rabbit, ermine, horsehair, wolf, elk and caribou. In the case of Kate's and my tribe, the Tsimshian, access to red cedar which comprised most of our day-to-day wear. Humid weather on the Pacific Northwest Coast was not conducive for the wearing of animal skins.

Over time, as European influences took hold, there was more access to cloth, blankets and tools that made the making of clothing easier. Moreover, many tribes began to borrow from each other, adopting styles that appealed and fringed clothing and woven blankets became very popular.

At Teya Peya we make our vests by hand with no machine stitching. As a result there are no two vests alike. Each piece is unique. The Vests are traditional, in other words, but are worn all the time in contemporary settings. Kate and I may come from the Pacific Northwest Coast and the world of the Button Blanket, but we wear our vests pretty much anytime, anywhere.

1. The artwork is primarily based on the two-dimensional art forms of the Pacific Northwest Coast

2. However, if you would like an Ojibwa bear, or you have a picture you would like replicated, we will do our best for that as well.

3. Colour (s) of beading is also to your specifications.

4. If you would prefer black fringe on a tan vest or vice-versa, no problem.

 TO ORDER ONE OR MORE OF OUR BEAUTIFUL, COLLECTOR VESTS:

1. All Vests are made to order.  Hand-painting is unique to each piece as specified by purchaser
2. Each order requires a 40% down-payment
3. Pay by Certified Cheque, Money Order or Pay Pal
4. Allow 4-6 weeks
5. Prices above do not include HST, Shipping and Handling
6. The Order Form will contain a Measurement Chart.