Missouri River Plains Style Moccasin Pattern

This was standard wear for Eastern woodsmen from the French & Indian War until well after the Revolution. Includes several options for cuffs, cape and fringe treatment. Sizes M, L, XL and XXL.

About Your Plains Style Moccasin Pattern

The Indians of the Plains and Plateau areas wore this very basic, hardsole type moccasin, which developed out of necessity as protection from the hard, and sometimes, rocky ground of the prairie that was their home. Normally constructed with soft tanned elk or buckskin uppers and supple, but tough, rawhide soles, they represent the most highly refined form of Native American footwear. Today, they remain a popular style of moccasin and are both comfortable and durable for dancing, camping or everyday wear.

Since the Cheyenne moccasin makers have been the acknowledged masters of the art for years, we have chosen to present the typical Cheyenne style of cut and construction in this pattern. Other tribal variations are easily adapted using this basic hardsole moccasin design.

The two most challenging aspects of moccasin making are achieving a proper fit and an authentic style. The highly detailed instructions, illustrations and other information contained in this pattern represent many years of research and "hands-on" learning of how to make moccasins the Indian way. We would like to extend our deepest appreciation to Nellie Stevens, Barry Hardin and Carl Jennings for their generous assistance in the development of this pattern.

Notions & Tools

Scissors, wax and simulated or genuine sinew, and beads or porcupine quills, if desired for decoration. A sharp awl is also necessary for moccasin making, along with a glovers needle for easy stitching through leather.

Suggested Materials

Ideally, Indian-tanned buckskin or elk is used for the uppers, welt (a narrow lace that is sewn between the upper & sole), and laces, but any soft, commercially tanned leather (including elk, buckskin, split cowhide, etc. in a 4-5oz. weight is very good). Soles can be made of hand-prepared rawhide (especially for moccasin soles), or 8-10 oz. white latigo or strap leather. Genuine sinew (a thread-like muscle from the leg or back of an animal) is best for sewing on the soles, but simulated sinew is an excellent substitute and is somewhat easier to work with.