Pioneer Crafts

Ray Doiron is an assistant professor of education specializing in
children’s literature at the University of Prince Edward Island.

This book introduces children to 19 craft projects popular among
children in pioneer times. The book opens with a brief introduction and
a caution about the use of knives, needles, and other tools. The project
descriptions that follow feature a brief background note, a list of
materials needed, simple directions, and clear line drawings. The
drawings evoke the rustic colors and materials used by pioneers.
Together the text and drawings guide readers through such projects as a
balancing acrobat, rug braiding, silhouette portraits, soap carving,
weaving, dyeing, and moccasins.

Parents and grandparents—and especially teachers who develop pioneer
themes with their elementary students—will find plenty of ideas for
projects here. Children will need some adult supervision, particularly
as they try to master sewing, weaving, and dyeing crafts. Recommended.