How to Set Up a Teepee
A teepee, also "tipi" or "tepee," is a conical tent-like structure with a wide, rounded bottom and pointed top. The Plains Indians used teepees for year-round shelter. Teepees were waterproof and traditionally accommodated up to seven people and beds made from bison skin. Fire pits were used inside the teepees for both warmth and cooking. The outside of teepees were often decorated with drawings by the owners.
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Things You'll Need
- 10 10-foot molding strips
- Cotton duck canvas
- Sewing machine
- Thread
- Manila rope
Instructions
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1
Choose a site for your teepee that is on slightly higher ground than the rest of the area to ensure proper drainage and to avoid flooding. The site must also be level. Remove stones, bushes and other debris.
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2
Use cotton duck canvas to create the covering. Canvas is commonly sold in rolls no more than 60 inches wide, which is not large enough to cover a standard-sized teepee. Sew two pieces of canvas together to make a 7.5x5 foot wrap. Set aside.
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3
Form the basic frame of the tepee by erecting a tripod out of three 1x1-inch, 10-foot molding strips.
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4
Tie the strips together using manila rope. Make the knot three feet below the top of the strips.
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5
Lean the remaining seven molding strips against the knotted joint of the tripod at even distances around the teepee. Leave a larger space between two of the strips to create a doorway.
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6
Wrap the canvas around the entire structure and tie with manila rope at the joint to keep the covering in place and to secure all the strips together.
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References
- Photo Credit tepees on the great plains image by Jeff from Fotolia.com
