From hand-carved originals to inspired creations – each design begins in wood, then transforms into art for your home, gifts, and souvenirs.
OUR STORY
Born from the creative bond of brother and sister duo Alexander and Jessie Pappas, Northern Spiritlines Ink & Thread Company™ celebrates Alaska’s enduring artistic spirit. The brand is inspired by the timeless craftsmanship of Alaskan artist and co-founder Alexander Pappas, whose work captures the spirit of nature and the stories woven through Alaska’s folklore. Each design begins as an authentic carving - carefully etched into wood or precious metals - reflecting both tradition and the soul of the land.
Born in 1977 in the Pacific Northwest and raised in Alaska, Alexander’s creative roots run deep. His lifelong connection to design and craftsmanship led him to apprentice under renowned Alaskan artist Frank Mooney (Yan Gowan), a Haida Master Carver of the Eagle Clan from Hydaburg, Alaska. Alexander is deeply honored to have been adopted into the Haida culture - a rare and meaningful privilege that continues to shape his artistry. While honoring the traditional techniques passed down through his apprenticeship, he brings his own creative expression to life through wood and metal, sharing his unfettered flow of imagination with love and gratitude.
You can explore Alexander’s original carvings and jewelry on Instagram at @engravealaska.
These original carvings are then thoughtfully recreated in digital form by his sister and co-founder Jessie Pappas (instagram: @trunkcreativedesign), preserving the intricate detail and spirit of each piece. Jessie transforms the hand-carved works into precise digital designs, making it possible to apply them across a curated range of products—from home décor and kitchenware to travel accessories, souvenirs, and gifts.
This seamless blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design ensures that every Northern Spiritlines creation carries both the authenticity of its origins and a modern connection to Alaska’s creative heritage. Each piece is a reflection of family, artistry, and the enduring stories that connect people to the land they love.
Northern Spiritlines Ink & Thread Company™ Classic Tribal Prints is our signature collection featuring bold, vibrant colors and symbolic patterns inspired by the Indigenous art of the Pacific Northwest. Our classic tribal prints include popular spirit animals that include their spirit characteristics and short stories on various pieces. These prints add cultural depth and visual storytelling to every product.
Designed to stand out on retail shelves - we create goods from soft, giftable blankets and stylish home goods to eye-catching souvenirs and travel accessories, each piece offers a meaningful blend of tradition and modern design—perfect for Alaskan locals, Alaska retail stores, to visitors seeking something both beautiful and authentic to take home.
Each piece in our Spirit Storyteller™ collection is more than a product – it is an experience. From soft and cozy sherpa fleece blankets and artistically printed tea towels to timeless keepsakes, every item is crafted with care and cultural reverence. Our exclusive Spirit Storyteller™ shares the story and significance of the spirit animal featured, inviting customers to connect with the deeper meaning behind the artwork.
The AK State Line™ Collection features our original Northern Spiritlines™ artwork adorned with “Alaska”, creating keepsakes for both travelers and locals. Bright, meaningful, and practical, these gifts capture the spirit of Alaska in designs everyone will love to take home and enjoy.
