Weaving in Beauty

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1. 1 On February 18th, 2009, James Peiffer said:

   I want to do small blankets or rugs where you can sit at a counter and work on. Where can I get the supplies I need. I live in Pa. regards, Jim

   posted on February 18th, 2009 at 12:35 pm

2. 2 On February 19th, 2009, Mary Walker said:

   Jim, thank you for being the first to use the new comment and question feature! On the East Coast, you can contact Firewatch Weavers in Brimfield, Massachusetts or Wild West Weaver in Ridgefield, Connecticut. Most people build their own loom and I’m going to post a plan for a workshop sized loom on the site later today.

   posted on February 19th, 2009 at 10:56 am

3. 3 On April 22nd, 2009, Jany said:

   I teach High School art and we have an ag department with sheep, and a wood shop, I would like to teach Navojo style weaving. Is there a simple way to prepare the wool? from sheep to spinning, I have a friend with a spinning wheel. Buts she buys her wool. Money is, of course, non existant. Am I trying to bite off too much, is this a rich mans hobby?

   posted on April 22nd, 2009 at 2:04 pm

4. 4 On April 23rd, 2009, Mary Walker said:

   Jany, with the resources that you have available, I’d definitely encourage you to give it a try. I think that the scarce resource that you’ll have to deal with is time, not money. Processing your own wool is not expensive, but it is time intensive. That’s probably why your friend is buying her wool. Weaving the Navajo way isn’t a rich person’s hobby, but it does require time and patience. I’ll send you a personal email with more information.

   posted on April 23rd, 2009 at 7:41 am

5. 5 On May 16th, 2009, Mary said:

   We would like to convert a Mark
   Deschinney Yazhi loom to turnbuckles (like loom in back on pic #7 of the finish line). Any advice or suggestions, and maybe another picture? Thanks.

   posted on May 16th, 2009 at 9:20 am

6. 6 On May 16th, 2009, Mary Walker said:

   It’s very easy to convert the Deschinny loom to turnbuckles. This particular student had a fairly wide warp and she used four turnbuckles that were about 7″ long and attached them to the upper board in the back. I’ll try to find some other pictures of it. It worked very well. The turnbuckles could have been attached to the front board, but the warp was a bit too long to do that.

   posted on May 16th, 2009 at 7:53 pm

7. 7 On May 29th, 2009, Lisa Reiser said:

   Do any of your artists ever exhibit in private galleries?

   posted on May 29th, 2009 at 5:51 pm

8. 8 On May 29th, 2009, Mary Walker said:

   It depends on the weaver. D.Y. Begay and Morris Muskett certainly do. Some of the other weavers work directly with private clients. You can use the individual links to contact any of the artists whose work you’re interested in. What I try to do at my site is to provide a (free) link for any Navajo weaver who has a personal web site so that they have a conduit to higher search engine rankings and wider public exposure for their work.
   http://174.121.153.8/~atlohi1/wp-admin/edit-comments.php#comments-form

   posted on May 29th, 2009 at 6:03 pm

9. 9 On July 8th, 2009, Eddie Bonnie said:

   Just want to say hello to all weavers and buyers. I’m a male navajo rug weaver of Wide Ruins,Az. Bye

   posted on July 8th, 2009 at 1:42 pm

10. 10 On July 22nd, 2009, Jane Gerard said:

    we have just started with a beautiful herd of Churra, we are looking for weavers or hide tanners working in the old ways- any one out there?

    posted on July 22nd, 2009 at 2:08 pm

11. 11 On July 23rd, 2009, Lesia Spencer said:

    In reference to Weaver’s Day in Window Rock, FYI .. the NN council passed legislation for starting up “Green Jobs” within the nation … one of the suggestions was a wool/weaving coop for local weavers … I think that’s a pretty good start … now, to think of types of jobs!

    posted on July 23rd, 2009 at 5:56 pm

12. 12 On July 23rd, 2009, Mary Walker said:

    Let’s see! There’s sheep shearing, wool processing, spinning, dyeing…. We’ll have to be sure that they follow up!

    posted on July 23rd, 2009 at 7:00 pm

13. 13 On October 19th, 2009, vickie armstrong said:

    Will you be having another miniature navajo weaving event like the one on your website.

    posted on October 19th, 2009 at 2:48 pm

14. 14 On October 19th, 2009, Mary Walker said:

    I’m checking with Vickie to find out which event. The chances are that we’ll be doing it again.

    posted on October 19th, 2009 at 5:45 pm

15. 15 On November 8th, 2009, Deborah Downs said:

    Mary

    I don’t know if your are interested; however, The 13 Grandmothers Council will be meeting in Sedona, Dec 3-6. Below is their website.
    http://www.grandmotherscouncil.com/

    Deborah

    posted on November 8th, 2009 at 5:39 pm

16. 16 On November 8th, 2009, Mary Walker said:

    If someone attends this event, please feel free to write an article if there’s weaving related content. I’m teaching a class that weekend.

    posted on November 8th, 2009 at 7:35 pm

17. 17 On November 17th, 2009, Jan HP said:

    Mary-did you weave the Social Dancers weaving yourself? It is beautiful!

    posted on November 17th, 2009 at 6:28 pm

18. 18 On November 18th, 2009, Mary Walker said:

    Yes, it’s my weaving! I get so busy washing, repairing and writing about other people’s rugs that I only finish about two pieces a year! Thanks for the compliment; it was a fun piece to weave.

    posted on November 18th, 2009 at 8:23 am

19. 19 On November 18th, 2009, Gabrielle Poorman said:

    Hi!
    My name is Gabrielle Poorman and I was wondering if I could interview someone who knows about rug weaving. I’m in college and have a research paper to write and i need to interview someone. Your help would be greatly appreciated.
    Thank You

    posted on November 18th, 2009 at 10:14 am

20. 20 On November 18th, 2009, Mary Walker said:

    You can interview me if you want to Gabrielle. Some of the weavers with web sites are also possibilities.

    posted on November 18th, 2009 at 11:03 am

21. 21 On December 18th, 2009, Jan HP said:

    Hi Mary & Jennie- I have a question about the C-Cactus Flower loom. Jennie-are you able to warp this loom in the tradional way for a Navajo rug? Love all your rugs!! Jan

    posted on December 18th, 2009 at 9:41 am

22. 22 On December 18th, 2009, Mary Walker said:

    No, the C-Cactusflower loom has a unique way of producing a Navajo warp with a system using two combs, but you can’t change the spacing of the warp or attach a traditional warp. For a portable loom that is warped traditionally, contact Mark Deschinny at http://www.markdeschinny.com..

    posted on December 18th, 2009 at 11:36 am

23. 23 On December 28th, 2009, topsy holmes said:

    i live in colorado and i have beautiful commercially spun navajo churro yarn. i would love to sell it to navajo weavers. i have all the natural colors. any ideas on how to get this yarn to the weavers? or get to know the weavers who are looking for navajo churro?

    posted on December 28th, 2009 at 1:13 pm

24. 24 On December 28th, 2009, Mary Walker said:

    Perhaps if you could send some samples?

    posted on December 28th, 2009 at 1:34 pm

25. 25 On December 28th, 2009, topsy holmes said:

    i would be happy to send some samples. perhaps you might email me with an address, of where to send them. topsy@dragonflychurros.com

    posted on December 28th, 2009 at 3:01 pm

26. 26 On December 28th, 2009, Mary Walker said:

    I’ve provided Topsy with my mailing address. I’ll post pictures and a review when I’ve had a chance to look at the samples.

    posted on December 28th, 2009 at 3:13 pm

27. 27 On January 28th, 2010, Oshea said:

    Hello
    Will there be any navajo weaving classes in massachusetts this year?

    Oshea

    posted on January 28th, 2010 at 1:03 pm

28. 28 On January 28th, 2010, Mary Walker said:

    It’s possible that someone else will be doing them, but Jennie Slick and I will not be coming back any time soon.

    posted on January 28th, 2010 at 1:07 pm

29. 29 On February 12th, 2010, Alison Halsey said:

    Mary,
    Long time no contact! My fault! I am doing well and continue to weave mostly on the portable loom although I did make myself a large wooden one. Time problem – work gets in the way. A few friends asked me about teaching them to weave and I said I would try. Believe me they will be no threat to the Navajo weavers.

    Could I buy from you 6 smaller width forks and 6 medium length and width battens? The problem is I need them by February 25th. Is that possible????
    A snow storm here knocked everything out for a week and a half hence I am behind on ordering things. Thanks. Let me know how much and if I can send a check or do you want a credit card number.
    I still long to be back on the reservation and weaving – what a great 3 weeks. I hope to be back this summer for a brief visit in July.

    Peace,
    Alison Halsey
    410-353-3456
    32 Franklin St.
    Annapolis, MD 21401

    posted on February 12th, 2010 at 1:31 pm

30. 30 On February 13th, 2010, linda hernandez said:

    i would like to know when the next on line weaving class will be held

    posted on February 13th, 2010 at 8:42 am

31. 31 On February 13th, 2010, LINDA HERNANDEZ said:

    i am interested in the next online class or if there are any classes around toledo ohio.

    posted on February 13th, 2010 at 5:47 pm

32. 32 On February 16th, 2010, Tracy Siebenthal said:

    I am interested in coming out to attend one of your seminars. Can you tell me about the overnight accommodations? I am anxious to expand my horizons!

    posted on February 16th, 2010 at 6:30 am

33. 33 On February 27th, 2010, Joan Van Wagner said:

    Interested in info. for begin.navajo weaving classes in Auburn April 30-May.I live in Rocklin. Thank you for any info. re: avail.,cost,time. Also have grandfathers old horse blankets I would like to learn how to repair. Joan

    posted on February 27th, 2010 at 3:07 pm

34. 34 On March 3rd, 2010, anna florence atimango said:

    thanks for the onine class.i would like to know more about different types of plain weaves.

    posted on March 3rd, 2010 at 4:42 am

35. 35 On March 6th, 2010, Bonnie Allen said:

    Does anyone know of any weavers in Illinois? thanks, Bonnie

    posted on March 6th, 2010 at 3:02 pm

36. 36 On March 12th, 2010, michael H. said:

    hello,I’m trying to find information on a weaver by the name of “Bissi Claws”.I recently purchased a rug that was made by her in 1984. Thank You!

    posted on March 12th, 2010 at 10:38 am

37. 37 On March 12th, 2010, k.y. emberson said:

    Does anyone know if Mark Deschinny is still in business? I paid for looms and tools almost a year ago, he doesn’t respond to any contacts and still no looms or money returned. Any info? Thank you.

    posted on March 12th, 2010 at 2:44 pm

38. 38 On March 14th, 2010, Celinda Hall said:

    I live in Albuquerque, NM and I am looking for a class here in town. One school I can find is booked up. Don’t want to have to take a vacation just to take a class. thanks

    posted on March 14th, 2010 at 12:47 pm

39. 39 On April 12th, 2010, susan Mendenhall said:

    Curious to know if this is Mary R Walker who at one point did metalsmithing or silversmithing?

    Thank You so much

    posted on April 12th, 2010 at 1:44 pm

40. 40 On April 14th, 2010, Pat Johnson said:

    K.Y. Emberson: Yes, mark is still in business. I just purchased a loom from him. His website provider went out of business. I’ll see if I can find the email I received from him.

    posted on April 14th, 2010 at 7:04 am

41. 41 On April 21st, 2010, Kathleen Higham said:

    Mary. I get to attend a work shop by Roy Kady in Idaho falls! Lucky me!!!

    posted on April 21st, 2010 at 6:09 pm

42. 42 On April 23rd, 2010, DebraJ said:

    Mary, I ordered some wool from Burnham’s. The lady there told me that their source in Philadelphia went out of business. So they bought the rest of their yarn. She said after that runs out they would be getting churro. Thanks for the tip.

    posted on April 23rd, 2010 at 6:46 pm

43. 43 On April 26th, 2010, Mary Walker said:

    You will love it. Roy is a very special person and you’ll learn a lot from him.

    posted on April 26th, 2010 at 8:06 am

44. 44 On April 26th, 2010, Mary Walker said:

    Not to worry, they’re in the process of changing mills. I’ve had a chance to help them with it and it’s been fun.

    posted on April 26th, 2010 at 8:06 am

45. 45 On May 19th, 2010, Jim said:

    Question on behalf of Lillie Dugi. “How does one participate in your Weavings For Sale?

    posted on May 19th, 2010 at 10:19 am

46. 46 On May 27th, 2010, Doug in Denver said:

    I went to the Crownpoint auction a couple weeks ago for the first time, really enjoyed it and purchased a couple of beautiful rugs. For my next rug, though, I’m thinking I’d like to get a small tapestry. I didn’t see any tapestry quality weavings at the auction in May and wondered whether you ever see them at Crownpoint?

    posted on May 27th, 2010 at 8:44 am

47. 47 On May 30th, 2010, Mary Walker said:

    Tapestry grade pieces generally find a market outside auction venues. There are relatively few pieces of true Navajo tapestry, which is a class of weaving with 80+ wefts per inch. The Toadlena and Two Grey Hills Trading posts are the best sources for tapestries in natural colors and Perry Null’s and Richardson’s in Gallup carry limited numbers of both Two Grey Hills and other tapestry grade pieces. Be prepared to pay $300 and more for good tapestry grade weaving. Some larger tapestry pieces can take well over a year to weave.

    posted on May 30th, 2010 at 12:51 pm

48. 48 On June 22nd, 2010, Emmy said:

    Does anyone ever teach an online class in cinch weaving.There’s
    not much here in Oklahoma.
    Thanks

    posted on June 22nd, 2010 at 10:33 am

49. 49 On June 23rd, 2010, Mary Walker said:

    Look for an online cinch class and more online classes in general starting in mid-October. Thanks for your interest!

    posted on June 23rd, 2010 at 9:32 am

50. 50 On July 5th, 2010, Pam said:

    Is there a possibility that you might add another Weaving In Beauty Class and Tour for this year? I came to the page tonight and saw that the July/August class is full. (Good news for you but bad news for me.)
    Thanks

    posted on July 5th, 2010 at 11:13 pm

51. 51 On July 6th, 2010, kathleen higham said:

    Mary, will another Munsell group start up? I’ve been reading on the web aboutit and would loved to participate in it.

    posted on July 6th, 2010 at 11:37 am

52. 52 On July 7th, 2010, Mary Walker said:

    I hope suggest another one later in the year. I’m way too busy to participate right now.

    posted on July 7th, 2010 at 10:51 am

53. 53 On July 7th, 2010, Mary Walker said:

    Pam, thank you so much for your interest in our class. We can’t add an additional class this year due to other commitments that we have, but we can add you to our waiting list in case there’s a cancellation and we’ll be posting our 2011 schedule soon.

    posted on July 7th, 2010 at 10:55 am

54. 54 On July 7th, 2010, Pam Hellman said:

    Yes, please do add me to the waiting lists. I’ll also be checking for the 2011 schedule. Thanks for replying!

    posted on July 7th, 2010 at 11:57 pm

55. 55 On July 8th, 2010, Emmy said:

    I’m curious now. What is a Munsell group?
    Thanks
    Emmy

    posted on July 8th, 2010 at 7:49 am

56. 56 On July 8th, 2010, Mary Walker said:

    The Munsell color system was developed to provide a precise numeric description of color based on hue, value or lightness and color purity (referred to by Munsell as chroma). This precision is helpful in mixing dyes to achieve the desired results. There is a Munsell study group on Weavolution.com, but I was too busy teaching right now to join. I hope there will be enough people interested to do another group later this year. If you haven’t already joined Weavolution, I’d encourage you to do it. The current study group is called the Munsell+dye study group.

    posted on July 8th, 2010 at 8:11 pm

57. 57 On July 11th, 2010, kathleen higham said:

    I’d like to join with you when it starts again!

    posted on July 11th, 2010 at 3:05 pm

58. 58 On July 25th, 2010, Janean said:

    Where do students lodge for classes?

    posted on July 25th, 2010 at 8:39 am

59. 59 On July 28th, 2010, Florida Sue said:

    Can you put me in contact with a Navajo-style weaver in Florida?

    posted on July 28th, 2010 at 11:42 am

60. 60 On July 29th, 2010, G. Lewis said:

    Im a Navajo weaver and I’m trying to completed a piece for College Expenses (Redheart yarn is all I can afford right now).
    Im seeking Some Donors of scrap wool/ Full Skeins. So I can make some pieces for my College expenses this Fall 2010.

    posted on July 29th, 2010 at 2:54 pm

61. 61 On July 31st, 2010, Mary Walker said:

    I will be sending some wool! Please send me your address privately. Others interested in donating some yarn should contact me.

    posted on July 31st, 2010 at 9:32 am

62. 62 On July 31st, 2010, Mary Walker said:

    I’m not aware of anyone in Florida, but other readers may know!

    posted on July 31st, 2010 at 9:34 am

63. 63 On August 1st, 2010, John Sandstrom said:

    Mary–
    At Convergence you mentioned the possiblity of on-line classes. Is there any time frame I should be checking for them to start?
    Thanks again for your and Jenne Slick’s teaching at Convergence. They were great classes.

    posted on August 1st, 2010 at 11:52 am

64. 64 On August 1st, 2010, Jan HP said:

    Hi Mary-Is there any chance you have a picture of the class looms used at Convergence? (I met you in Window Rock last spring (VT natives) and I have pics of the 2 rugs we bought at the Adopt A Native spring Food Run! See you soon-Jan

    posted on August 1st, 2010 at 3:59 pm

65. 65 On August 9th, 2010, Naomi julian said:

    I am desperate for some help with warping a navajo loom. Could anyone help me? I am in Albuquerque and have been weaving on the navajo loom for a few years, but still having problems with warping.

    Thank you, Naomi

    posted on August 9th, 2010 at 9:38 am

66. 66 On August 10th, 2010, Mary Walker said:

    Tyra Preston, Roy Kady’s neice teaches at Village Wools and Morris Muskett (http:/www.morrismuskett.com)is also in Albuquerque. Naomi was able to get in touch with Tyra, who is helping her out.

    posted on August 10th, 2010 at 1:36 pm

67. 67 On August 18th, 2010, Judy Soivey said:

    I want to attend your class in 2011, my husband wants to come for the field trips but not to weave, it that possible, we are willing to drive our car as the extra car. Thanks judy

    posted on August 18th, 2010 at 7:56 am

68. 68 On August 18th, 2010, Mary Walker said:

    Judy, your husband is very welcome to join us for the field trips. We frequently have spouses, significant others and even BFF’s along. If he’s willing to drive, that’s even better.

    posted on August 18th, 2010 at 8:37 am

69. 69 On August 18th, 2010, Judy Spivey said:

    tried to sign up for Oct 2011 class and when I add to cart is comes up Oct 2010. Please advise. Thanks

    posted on August 18th, 2010 at 6:43 pm

70. 70 On August 19th, 2010, Mary Walker said:

    I’ve got it fixed now. The dates were right, but the year was wrong! Thanks for the heads up.

    posted on August 19th, 2010 at 7:47 am

71. 71 On August 23rd, 2010, Mary Ann Polacek said:

    I am interested in signing up for future classes, but dont see contact info to discuss classes beforehand as you require or firsttimers. Also I dont do cyperspace business without a physical address involved when invovling money-waaaay too much internet fraud out there to submit deposits to cyperspace. Please advise how to contact you and engage in synchronous conversation about upcoming classes. Thank you.

    posted on August 23rd, 2010 at 3:59 pm

72. 72 On August 23rd, 2010, Mary Walker said:

    Our physical address is protected on the web site but appears on all of our online transactions and invoices. We can provide references from past students if you’d like them. We have provided classes on the Navajo Nation since 2000 and have taught over 500 students. Please contact me via email if you’d like to set up a phone or web conference to discuss a class. Thanks for your interest in learning to weave the Navajo way!

    posted on August 23rd, 2010 at 4:38 pm

73. 73 On August 27th, 2010, Jackie Schweitzer said:

    hello, if you happen to have a cancellation for Oct. 2010, i would like to take the spot. if not, probably May 2011. i have a 2nd person coming but he is not a weaver. thanks!

    posted on August 27th, 2010 at 8:36 am

74. 74 On September 4th, 2010, Suzanna Hermans said:

    We have a customer looking for your book on Navajo weaving by Mary Walker & Liz Munk. Can you send us ordering info, ISBN, price, etc. Thank you.

    posted on September 4th, 2010 at 8:10 am

75. 75 On September 6th, 2010, Mary Walker said:

    The book is available at this link. It’s self published and the ISBN is 978-0-615-37744-5. The book is supported by online multimedia files that the student can use to re-enforce the printed material. I hope that helps!

    posted on September 6th, 2010 at 1:47 pm

76. 76 On October 29th, 2010, Sandy Gally said:

    Excitement Plus,Mary!! Just received “The Weaver’s Book How To Weave the Navajo Way” What a wonderful job ya’ll did. Now I can finish my rug.
    Congratulations on a Job Well Done!
    Sandy

    posted on October 29th, 2010 at 5:42 pm

77. 77 On December 15th, 2010, anita said:

    Do you have any 3 day courses scheduled for 2011?

    posted on December 15th, 2010 at 4:14 pm

78. 78 On December 15th, 2010, Mary Walker said:

    We have a proposal in to do a workshop at the Estes Park Wool Market, but we haven’t gotten an answer on it yet. We usually do a three day class in Utah, but we won’t have a date until January. Thanks for your interest!

    posted on December 15th, 2010 at 5:12 pm

79. 79 On January 20th, 2011, Dinah Rose said:

    When will your next online beginning Navajo weaving class be?
    Thanks,
    Dinah Rose
    http://www.dinahrose.com

    posted on January 20th, 2011 at 6:27 am

80. 80 On January 29th, 2011, Margaretha Fletcher said:

    I love all you have posted on your site, I hope to learn how to weave Navajo someday.

    posted on January 29th, 2011 at 4:58 pm

81. 81 On January 30th, 2011, Mary Walker said:

    The next beginner session should start around March 13th. I’ll post registration soon. Thanks for your interest in learning to weave the Navajo way!

    posted on January 30th, 2011 at 11:56 am

82. 82 On February 5th, 2011, Nick Duren said:

    i am interested in learning to weave the Navajo cinch maybe you could tell what to read or maybe you have a class thanks

    posted on February 5th, 2011 at 9:53 pm

83. 83 On February 13th, 2011, Avery said:

    Question: I am doing my second navajo weaving and the warp frayed apart in one area. Is there a fix for this? I have tied a new thread but does not stay tight once the warp is retightened.

    posted on February 13th, 2011 at 12:15 pm

84. 84 On February 21st, 2011, Mary Walker said:

    Sorry for the delay in responding to your question. I secure the ends of a repair warp with a t-pin. I like the 1 ¾” pins that they sell at Jo-Ann.

    posted on February 21st, 2011 at 1:33 pm

85. 85 On February 21st, 2011, Mary Walker said:

    We will be releasing a DVD on the horse cinch this summer.

    posted on February 21st, 2011 at 1:33 pm

86. 86 On March 11th, 2011, Jill said:

    my brother made me a navajo loom years ago and I even have the warp and weft required. I just need to learn how to weave on it. I was wondering if you knew of classes in Tucson. Thanks, Jill

    posted on March 11th, 2011 at 9:48 am

87. 87 On March 11th, 2011, Carol Welch said:

    I would love to go to one of your boot camps. Is there any chance you would be in Oregon?

    posted on March 11th, 2011 at 8:59 pm

88. 88 On March 11th, 2011, Mary Walker said:

    The closest classes that I know of are at the Fiber Factory in Mesa.

    posted on March 11th, 2011 at 9:47 pm

89. 89 On March 11th, 2011, Mary Walker said:

    Carol, our schedule for this year is very full. It doesn’t look like we’ll have anything in Oregon.

    posted on March 11th, 2011 at 9:48 pm

90. 90 On March 14th, 2011, mike sparkman said:

    Mary….was able to achieve a rug goal by purchasing a Burnham weaving by Sandy Begay…at an umbelievably low price in Crownpoint. (you helped me purchase a rose yazzie at Hubble)

    posted on March 14th, 2011 at 7:48 pm

91. 91 On March 14th, 2011, Mary Walker said:

    Darn, I wish I’d been there to bid against you!

    posted on March 14th, 2011 at 8:10 pm

92. 92 On March 15th, 2011, Avril Sheppard said:

    Hi Mary
    I’ve been following the pictures you’ve been posting on your site, and I just have to comment on the one of Marilou Shultz spinning “under the watchful eye of her Mother”…it says so much…about spinning, but about mothers and daughters too…it’s a jewel.

    posted on March 15th, 2011 at 10:21 am

93. 93 On March 22nd, 2011, Beth Robertson said:

    I really like this site. I am enrolled with the Navajo Nation and I grew up and live in South Carolina. I am enrolled at Shiprock. I love to knit and weave and anything else about the felting arts. I card wool and spin. I use a lap loom and a shuttle loom and knitting looms and of course knitting needles I also create felted works of art. I would love to learn how to weave on a Navajo loom and thanks to you I can. I wanted to know if there is some way that financial assistance can be provided so that I can participate in the online classrooms.I am always w/a loom or knitting needles and my love for the art has allowed me the priviledge to teach others. I have recently been asked to teach children at libraries and schools on spinning, weaving, knitting and felting. I have a “woolery curriculum” that I have used with my children that incorporates fiber arts and handwork through the history of wool, weaving, knitting, chemistry (natural dying), geography, math concepts, balance, our connection to all things in nature and of course stories of Spider Woman.
    Thank You
    Beth Robertson

    posted on March 22nd, 2011 at 8:03 pm

94. 94 On March 23rd, 2011, Mary Walker said:

    Beth, I’ll send you a private email on this. Thank you for your comment.

    posted on March 23rd, 2011 at 7:40 am

95. 95 On April 8th, 2011, Pam Root said:

    This is for Beth Robertson. I am a professor of education and we are working on an integrated sustainability unit for our future teachers. Would you be willing to share your “woolery” curriculum” with us?

    posted on April 8th, 2011 at 3:37 pm

96. 96 On April 22nd, 2011, Don Mawhinney said:

    I have found 2″ “industrial” Velcro at Hobby Lobby. Is this too much for the rug, possibly causing some deterioration when I remove it to flip the rug?

    posted on April 22nd, 2011 at 1:29 pm

97. 97 On April 22nd, 2011, Mary Walker said:

    Don, the 2” Velcro is about right. We just place the rug so that it holds and we’ve found that it provides the best overall support without clamping or creating extra hanging weight. You only need the hook side unless the rug is an older one that’s had a lot of foot traffic. You just press the rug lightly until it holds and gently peel it off when you want to do maintenance or rotate the side displayed.

    posted on April 22nd, 2011 at 1:36 pm

98. 98 On April 23rd, 2011, Daniel Logg said:

    I have a large rug which has the navajo storm pattern, but has cotton warp and weft. It also has a few added fringes on the end that were added after the rug was woven. I was wondering if you might have some idea of the time period that this rug might have been woven? I can send some photos if that would help. Thanks, Daniel

    posted on April 23rd, 2011 at 10:13 pm

99. 99 On April 24th, 2011, Mary Walker said:

    I’ve asked Daniel to send me a picture. I’ll let you know what I find out.

    posted on April 24th, 2011 at 12:28 pm

100. 100 On May 4th, 2011, Lyle T. Yazzie said:

     Please mention the Hubbell Art Auction-Hubbell Trading Post-May 14,2011

     posted on May 4th, 2011 at 11:04 pm

101. 101 On May 4th, 2011, lyle t said:

     OK,I see, you mentioned Hubbell. Sorry!

     posted on May 4th, 2011 at 11:06 pm

102. 102 On May 5th, 2011, Mary Walker said:

     I’ll be sure to mention them next week too! Thanks for bringing it up!

     posted on May 5th, 2011 at 6:33 am

103. 103 On May 27th, 2011, Bobbie Desalernos said:

     Transportation from Albuquerque to Window rock?

     posted on May 27th, 2011 at 2:35 pm

104. 104 On May 27th, 2011, Mary Walker said:

     Many students who don’t drive use the Amtrak train from Albuquerque to Gallup, where we’ll pick you up!

     posted on May 27th, 2011 at 2:38 pm

105. 105 On May 31st, 2011, Judith Hitt said:

     In 1972 in Colorado, Steven purchased two Navajo rugs both woven by Bessie Johnson. The storm pattern was lost in a fire but his mother kept the Yei rug. When she died, we could not find the provenance and would like to learn more about this weaver. Can anyone help us about who she was and when she was working? We are very fond of this weaving and any information would be greatly appreciated.Thank you very much.

     posted on May 31st, 2011 at 1:04 pm

106. 106 On May 31st, 2011, Mary Walker said:

     A Storm Pattern woven in the 1970′s suggests that the weaver may have been in the western part of the Navajo Nation. I don’t have any information on the weaver, but another reader may be able to help. There were probably 30,000 weavers working at that time.

     posted on May 31st, 2011 at 1:35 pm

107. 107 On June 10th, 2011, Denis Prevost said:

     can’t wait to take a class in Navajo weaving – Denis

     posted on June 10th, 2011 at 1:13 pm

108. 108 On July 7th, 2011, Jess Burns said:

     Thank you for your wonderful site, I googled Two Grey Hills looking for a shop that I visited many times while in Arizona. I purcased many lovely pieces of jewlry and was looking for them online… didn’t find them but will return to this site when I have time to take in all the beautiful photos and information.

     posted on July 7th, 2011 at 7:06 am

109. 109 On August 10th, 2011, Marlowe said:

     I wonder how many weavers there are now? Any estimations?

     posted on August 10th, 2011 at 10:57 pm

110. 110 On August 11th, 2011, Mary Walker said:

     The most authoritative numbers that I have seen on this subject come from Ann Lane Hedlund. If I remember correctly, Ann estimates that there are about 20,000 Navajo weavers. Many, perhaps half, weave only occasionally to meet a pressing need. Another group consists of people who weave on a regular basis and weaving provides part of their income. Another and smaller group consists of master weavers who derive a significant part or all of their income from weaving and who are identified primarily as weavers within their community. A smaller number work as fine artists and many people in this group have formal training in art. Finally, there is a group of revival weavers, who weave not for income but for personal and cultural fulfillment.

     posted on August 11th, 2011 at 7:08 am

111. 111 On September 13th, 2011, Mitch Lenz said:

     Have a rug said to be done by a Jane Benally in Windorock AZ.How could I find out if there is such a rug weaver.She is said to be 90 years old and still weaving.

     posted on September 13th, 2011 at 12:00 pm

112. 112 On September 27th, 2011, terry airhart said:

     I have a Navajo rug given me by my Grandmother who lived on the reservation asa child. I am curious what the design that almost looks like a swastika stands for. Is there a book that determines the meaning of the designs?

     posted on September 27th, 2011 at 10:49 am

113. 113 On September 27th, 2011, Mary Walker said:

     This design is often referred to as a “whirling log”. It was used as a metaphor for the wheel of life, the four winds, the four directions, and the four sacred mountains. When it was appropriated by the Nazis, the Navajos and other Native Americans stopped using it in their art. Many of the rugs using the symbol were destroyed during the 1930′s and World War II. Many people who own the pieces that survived are still reluctant to display them, because of the visceral reaction that many people understandably have to the symbol, however innocently it is used. When I did an article discussing a rug that included a whirling log, three or four people wrote to me the next day and asked to be removed from my mailing list, so clearly there is still a lot of sentiment against it. Modern Navajo weavers use the symbol very sparingly because of this.

     posted on September 27th, 2011 at 3:51 pm

114. 114 On October 6th, 2011, Francine said:

     Mary
     I would like to sign up for the spider rock boarding class next year if you are going to do it.
     Please let me know.
     Francine

     posted on October 6th, 2011 at 12:35 pm

115. 115 On October 18th, 2011, suZ said:

     I have finally found what I have been looking for, and have enjoyed all of your questions and answers. I am trying to find a good book to help me get started in weaving of any kind of tapestry. I am a disabled U.S. Navy Nurse (I have MS) with limited financial resources, so I would like to find the best book to get started with. Is ‘Atł’óhí Binaltsoos (The Weaver’s Book): How to Weave the Navajo Way, in your opinion, the book I am looking for? If it isn’t can you point me in the right direction? I have access to lumber and other building materials and can build most anything. Looking at the price of looms, I know that I can build a Navajo loom and would love to be part of a very historic art.
     Thank you for you time and information.
     suZ

     posted on October 18th, 2011 at 10:23 am

116. 116 On October 18th, 2011, Mary Walker said:

     Many people like “Navajo Weaving Way” by Noel Bennett and Tiana Bighorse. You’ll find that our book, Atł’óhí Binaltsoos (The Weaver’s Book): How to Weave the Navajo Way, is very detailed and is supported by video resources that many people have found helpful. I think that you’ll find both books helpful learning to weave the Navajo way.

     posted on October 18th, 2011 at 4:46 pm

117. 117 On November 14th, 2011, Inge said:

     do you have any beginning weaving classes scheduled for Nov/Dec/2012 in Colorado Springs, Denver Colorado?

     posted on November 14th, 2011 at 12:08 pm

118. 118 On November 14th, 2011, Mary Walker said:

     Inge, Jennie Slick and I don’t have anything scheduled in that area in late 2012, but please check with Lynda Teller Pete. Lynda’s web site is http://www.navajorugweavers.com.

     posted on November 14th, 2011 at 8:29 pm

119. 119 On November 27th, 2011, Deidra Manary said:

     A friend and I are very interested in signing up for your 10/7-14/2012 class. What is the deposit required to hold a spot in that class? What is Burntwater designs? Do reservations need to be made at the Quality Inn the same time as securing a place in this class – or do you request that they hold a reservation? We hope to make our reservation this week after hearing from you.
     Thank you,
     Deidra Manary

     posted on November 27th, 2011 at 8:28 pm

120. 120 On November 28th, 2011, Mary Walker said:

     The deposit is $375. The link is http://secure.ultracart.com/cgi-bin/UCEditor?merchantId=WIB&ADD=WIB-2012-OCTOBER-DEP.

     A Burntwater design is done with vegetally dyed yarns. If you think of a classic Two Grey Hills rug done in pastel colors, that’s a Burntwater.

     I make the hotel reservations so that I’m sure that everyone gets the right rate. If you have other questions, just let me know. There’s more information on the web site at http://weavinginbeauty.com/find-a-weaving-class/weaving-in-beauty-classes/weaving-in-beauty-a-textile-tour.

     posted on November 28th, 2011 at 10:46 am

121. 121 On December 3rd, 2011, geneva said:

     Please provide me with instructions on how to hang rugs. Thanks

     posted on December 3rd, 2011 at 2:59 pm

122. 122 On December 3rd, 2011, Mary Walker said:

     Geneva, check this page on the site. Please drop me a line if you need more help.

     posted on December 3rd, 2011 at 3:39 pm

123. 123 On December 27th, 2011, Gloria said:

     Do you know of a useful site (like yours) that deals with info re Mexican blankets? Thank you!

     posted on December 27th, 2011 at 4:16 pm

124. 124 On January 6th, 2012, Victoria said:

     Very excellent and helpful article. Where can I write to identify the weaving I have? It is around 1920′s, wool,gray & red design. Was bought in the Southwest as far as I know. Any direction you can send me would be appreciated.

     posted on January 6th, 2012 at 4:13 am

125. 125 On January 6th, 2012, Mary Walker said:

     Please contact me at mary.walker@weavinginbeauty.com.

     posted on January 6th, 2012 at 1:59 pm

126. 126 On January 6th, 2012, Mary Walker said:

     Alas, I don’t know of one, but perhaps one of our readers does!

     posted on January 6th, 2012 at 2:02 pm

127. 127 On January 30th, 2012, Robert Garcia said:

     I have what I think is a Navajo weaving 23″ X 35″ that was made by ? Mary Rose James? Just wanted to know what its worth.

     posted on January 30th, 2012 at 6:56 pm

128. 128 On February 2nd, 2012, Mary Walker said:

     I can’t give you any idea without having a picture of it.

     posted on February 2nd, 2012 at 10:46 am

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