In the fall of 2023, North House Folk School hosted its first-ever Hide Week: a thematic week that celebrates the rich and varied crafts of hide and skin tanning, finishing, and sewing. Hide Week returns May 12-18, 2026. With 12 courses, free evening programs, and a free conference day on May 15, it’s a week that celebrates some of the materials that have made life as we know it possible. 

“Traditional tanning and skin sewing have been an integral craft across the world and across human history,” said North House’s Program Director Jessa Frost. “While there are many processes for tanning animal skins, each method reflects the culture, landscape, and knowledge of a specific place and people.”

Hide Week offers an opportunity for beginners, advanced tanners, and the public to connect, exchange knowledge, and learn from one another in an environment of curiosity and sharing. This year, North House is pleased to welcome an incredibly talented group of new and returning instructors. Featured guests include Dr. Kevin Lewis and Darla Campbell of Ministikwan Lake Cree Nation (Saskatchewan); Karl Karlsson of Sweden; and Matt Richards from Traditional Tanners of Oregon.

 Hide Week group

The public is invited to campus to meet and learn from these visiting craftspeople through free evening programs happening throughout the week, including community nights and presentations. North House will also host Hide Week Gathering Day on Friday, May 15, a day filled with free presentations and hide tanning demonstrations. It’s an opportunity to learn from the many skilled instructors and craftspeople who will be on campus, and all are welcome to attend. 

All Hide Week details, including a full schedule of free programs, are available at northhouse.org. This event is supported by the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community.