Lakota Star Quilts: From Hides to Fabric
Aaron Whyte·Published
From Buffalo Hides to Quilts
When the buffalo herds were destroyed in the late 19th century, Lakota women adapted their artistic traditions to quilting — introduced by missionaries and government teachers.
The Star Pattern
The eight-pointed star quilt is the most iconic Lakota design. Constructed from diamond-shaped fabric pieces in a starburst, it echoes earlier painted designs on buffalo hides.
Giving Protocol
- Honoring: quilts draped over individuals being honored
- Giveaways: quilts given to guests at memorial feasts
- Graduations: graduates wrapped in quilts by family
- Funerals: quilts cover the deceased
