How a Tipi Works

The very basic elements of a tipi are the tipi cover, tipi poles and tipi pitching accessories. The addition of a liner, ozan and floor can add to the function and comfort of your tipi. The poles form the framework to support the cover and hang the liner and ozan from. True tipis always include a liner. The tipi is tilted into prevailing winds so it is nearly vertical in the back making the tipi stand strong against the weather and increasing the useable living space. The smoke hole is towards the more gently sloping front and has adjustable flaps that enhance the draw for an open fire.

Heating Your Tipi

When a tipi is properly pitched, the cover is staked several inches above the ground. The liner hangs against the inside of the poles and seals the bottom of the tipi. The liner makes a double wall and creates a chimney effect--air flows under the cover, is channelled up between the cover and the liner and finally, rises up through the smoke flaps taking the smoke with it. The addition of an ozan can increase the heat retention in your sleeping area and redirect any moisture that may enter through the smoke flaps.

A tipi may also be heated with a wood stove. A few lacing pins are removed from the front of the tipi to accomodate the exit of the stove pipe. A detailed pitching guide is included with every tipi order and includes information on heating with a wood burning stove.

Cooling Your Tipi

In hot weather, the smoke flaps can be left open and the bottom of the tipi cover rolled up all the way around or just on one side. Even the most gentle breeze creates a nice cooling effect.

Read Shea Gunther's blog on Modern Tipi Living in Maine