Intestine

Intestines from bearded seals, sea lion and walrus were used to make extremely lightweight, strong wind and water proof parkas. Seams were sewn with strands of grass placed on each seam allowance to prevent stitches from tearing the intestine. Bird scalps and feathers enhanced fertility. Dyed hair and stained skins were often inserted into the seams to provide extra protection from danger and to communicate with animal spirits. Unlike other skins, intestines were used as an impenetrable membrane, protecting sealers and whalers from evil spirits and danger. Some intestines were bleached white and opaque, while unbleached intestines were translucent; both enabled travellers to metaphysically see through to other worlds and to see danger well in advance. Intestine masks were also worn as death masks. Shamans used intestine parkas, masks and bags because the sound they made was associated with the spirit world.