Kokhanok resident teaches about sewing with salmon skin

Salmon skin is a traditional sewing material for Alaska Native people in many parts of the state. When dried and preserved, it can be crafted into bags, boots and other clothing items. But few artists still practice the craft. Marlene Nielsen from Kokhanok [Kawk-AN-awk] is among those who do. She taught herself several years ago because no one she knew worked with fish skin. Now she teaches classes around Alaska. KDLG’s Avery Lill spoke with her at the Fishtival bazaar in Naknek this summer, where she was selling her fish skin crafts.