Alaska has been bringing visitors and locals qiviut items from its store Oomingmak since back in 1969. This cooperation is owned by over 250 Native American women from across the villages of Alaska. And what do all these women have in common besides this company and their heritage? They all knit their items by hand!
And just what is qiviut you may ask? Qiviut is the downy-soft underwool from the Arctic musk ox. These oxen shed their underwool naturally each and every year during the spring months. This underwool is over eight times warmer than regular wool, and it is also very lightweight.
About the Products:
All of the items made from this qiviut are 100% natural and in the natural color. Each village has a signature pattern for the scarves and other items they make. So be sure to watch for these special patterns that have been derived from traditional aspects of the village life and Eskimo culture.
A new line was introduced back in 1999 that is 80% Qiviut and 20% silk. You’ll be able to purchase a cap or headband made in this material if you’d like. They are beautiful yet also very function. Alaska is a colder state, and one way to overcome this cold is by wearing a product knitted in qiviut. Unlike wool, this product won’t shrink in water and can be hand-washed.
You’ll find this Alaska shop Oomingmak at 604 H Street in your Alaska RV rental. Hours are Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Visitors come to Oomingmak from all over the world, as the little brown house with the musk ox mural has become quite popular! Many customers have found this company on the web, through those who have previously visited, or through blogs and publications.
Popular knitted items include things such as scarves, stoles, hats, tunics, caps, headbands, and more. These make for a great souvenir to take back with you to remember your Alaska vacation. If you’d like to see prices and the selection of various knits you can purchase in Alaska, please check out their website.
And if hearing about Alaska got you excited about visiting, we’d like to help you out more. Send us a list of activities and things your family likes to see/do, and we will start planning a fun trip for you! We can also help you if you are looking for a great Anchorage RV sale!
