Navajo Weavings
The Navajos most likely learned how to weave from their Pueblo neighbors in the 1600s, and have been weaving on the same type of loom ever since. They use an upright loom that has no mechanical parts, so each strand of wool is laid in by hand. This unique device produces a finished product with four closed selvage edges~there are no knots to break or unravel. It is a very time-consuming style of weaving, which is why Navajo weavings are expensive and highly prized.
There have been changes in the yarn that the weavers use over the years. While handspun and home-dyed wool was common in earlier days, commercially dyed and spun yarns date back to the 19th century. Such yarns are the norm today. Some weavings are a combination of handspun and commercially spun yarn as well as natural wool colors and home-dyed yarns, depending on the availability of the yarns and colors the weaver wants to use.
The beauty of Navajo weavings is apparent in the weaver's selection of color and design. Equally important is technical excellence: straight edges, balanced patterns and even, tight weaving. We are happy to provide photos and details of weavings we have in the gallery. Please contact us with your budget and size requirements.
The Navajos most likely learned how to weave from their Pueblo neighbors in the 1600s, and have been weaving on the same type of loom ever since. They use an upright loom that has no mechanical parts, so each strand of wool is laid in by hand. This unique device produces a finished product with four closed selvage edges~there are no knots to break or unravel. It is a very time-consuming style of weaving, which is why Navajo weavings are expensive and highly prized.
There have been changes in the yarn that the weavers use over the years. While handspun and home-dyed wool was common in earlier days, commercially dyed and spun yarns date back to the 19th century. Such yarns are the norm today. Some weavings are a combination of handspun and commercially spun yarn as well as natural wool colors and home-dyed yarns, depending on the availability of the yarns and colors the weaver wants to use.
The beauty of Navajo weavings is apparent in the weaver's selection of color and design. Equally important is technical excellence: straight edges, balanced patterns and even, tight weaving. We are happy to provide photos and details of weavings we have in the gallery. Please contact us with your budget and size requirements.
Please call 505-243-0414, email [email protected],
or visit us in Old Town Albuquerque to place your order.
A portion of all sales by Grey Dog Trading go directly to The Zuni Fetish Museum.
or visit us in Old Town Albuquerque to place your order.
A portion of all sales by Grey Dog Trading go directly to The Zuni Fetish Museum.
