These poles are then set into holes in the ground, spaced about two feet apart, in the pattern of a circle. After the arches are lashed together, three or four sapling hoops will be put around the frame for further support.

When the frame is done, the wigwams will be covered with sewn cattail mats (like the wigwam in the foreground), or with heavy sheets of elm bark (like the wigwam in the background). Spaces are left uncovered for a doorway (or two). A 'smoke-hole' at the top of each wigwam was left open or partially covered, to let out the smoke from the central fire inside. Both doorways and smoke-holes had adjustable mats fastened to them so they could be covered or closed during rain or snow.