YORKTON – Resident of the Parkland and seasoned craftswoman, Natasha Aichel, instructed a workshop Nov. 18 in creating beaded moccasins at North 40 Fabrics.
Aichel, who has eight years of experience in the craft, shared her knowledge of the art with 11 eager learners noting the intricate process involved in their creation.
“It teaches people the basics of beading — to the sherpa to constructing that moccasin,” said Aichel in an interview with Yorkton This Week.
Aichel said her love for the craft is deeply rooted in her family’s tradition of hunting and trapping. “I loved the different types of furs there were,” said Aichel, expressing her preference for fox and coyote furs.
The opportunity to instruct the class came when Karen Poppenheim, owner of North 40 Fabrics, approached Aichel. Recognizing the value of sharing this traditional craft with the community, Aichel agreed to teach the class. “It’s not just for women,” said Aichel, “it’s for men and families and everything else in between.”
Aichel’s dedication to her craft is evident in her work. During one holiday season, Aichel said she made 250 pairs of moccasins and mittens within a month, creations that are available to view on her Facebook page, Touch of Wild Creations.
The workshop was not just about learning a new skill but also about the joy of creating something with one’s own hands. “You’re using a lot of your hands and your muscles,” Aichel said. “Teaching today has probably put the biggest smile on my face.”
For those who missed the opportunity to attend the workshop, there’s good news. “We do have another class booked for moccasins in December, and then in January," said Aichel, noting there will be a workshop for mitten crafting as well.
Aichel encourages everyone interested in learning the craft to join the upcoming workshops. “If you want to learn come on out and try it — it’s not just for ladies — there’s been men that have got into the love of making and kids really enjoy it too,” she said.
