Dr. J. Mark Sublette discusses the best way to care authentic Navajo rugs. This video is a must-see for anyone interested in authentic Navajo rugs, blankets, and rugs. Dr. J. Mark Sublette discusses the pitfalls of the process and condenses his 25-years of experience into a single tutorial video.

Navajo rugs usually have a wool warp. If you’re not an expert in fibers, it may be difficult for you to tell what kind of warp was used, but in general cotton and linen are smoother than wool. Wool is, well, wooly. As you can see from the picture at the right, it has little fibers that stick out from the warp threads. Remember that there is one genuine Navajo rug (the Gallup throw) that is woven with a cotton warp. Also bear in mind that cotton was widely used as warp in the late 1800’s. Look at the other indicators to determine the authenticity of the piece, but use the fiber content of the warp as part of your authentication.

Native American Rugs Made in Minnesota

types of native american rugs

Knowing the origins of the Navajo rugs will help you understand why they cost more. What is the material used to make Navajo rugs? In the mid-19th-century, weavers used three-ply yarn, also known as Saxony. Saxony stands for high-quality silky and naturally dyed years. When it comes to natural dyes they are superior to artificial. Natural dyes last longer, are brighter and don't fade so easily. Navajo rugs have a longer life span than any other. These are the same factors that were true for the Navajo rugs natural dyes. Saxony has a high quality material.The price of brand rugs will be generally lower than those of the older ones because they are less valuable. However, the overall condition may determine the price of an ancient rug.

rugs southwestern

rugs southwestern

Navajo rugs are usually made with a woolwarp. Although it is not easy to know what type of warp was used, it is possible. In general, however, wool and linen are much smoother than cotton and other fibers. Wool is, well wooly. As you can see, the wool has little fibers that stick out above the warp threads. Only one authentic Navajo rug (the Gallup Throw) is made with a cotton warp. Be aware that cotton was widely used for warp in late 1800's. Take into account the other indicators for authenticity, but consider the fiber content as part of your authentication. Below, you will see Jennie Slick as a master weaver with a small finished rugs. It's clear that this rug doesn't have fringe. And the side selvage rope contrasts nicely with the dark brown wool in the background. This rug is authentic Navajo. It is 100% wool with a fringe.

what native american clan wove rugs with birds
what native american clan wove rugs with birds

These rugs are made using handlooms that are manually operated.In the past, weavers would set up their looms among two trees. They now use poles to weave on their looms. To create a perfect base pattern, the weavers will overlap the threads several times and then add layers of different designs. These rugs are often distinguished by the presence of black and white stripes.The Navajo rugs are distinguished from other types of rugs by the way they have their wool and fabric. For their rugs, the Navajos used high-quality, hand-spun wool made from their sheep. They also used Saxony yarn, which was silky and naturally colored.These rugs were made from all-natural materials, which allowed for the high quality Navajo rugs.

native american patterned rugs - wool

Proponents of the Arts & Crafts design movement found that the bold, geometric designs harmonized beautifully with their simple furniture and handmade accessories. By 1896, C.N. Cotton, a trader in Gallup, New Mexico had issued a catalogue in an effort to expand his market to eastern retailers. Other traders, most notably Lorenzo Hubble at Ganado, Arizona and J.B. Moore at Crystal, New Mexico, followed up with their own catalogues in the early years of the new century, focusing specifically on rugs. Navajo weaving had quickly gained a national audience.

native american patterned rugs - wool