Posts by Mary Walker
Announcing Online Weaving in Beauty Classes in Navajo Techniques
Tempe, AZ Over the past 12 years, Jennie Slick and I have taught over 300 people how to weave the Navajo way, but not everyone who is interested can make the trip to the Southwest or get into one the workshops that we do on the road. Starting on January 30, I’m going to try…
Read MoreThe Brilliance of the Navajo Germantowns: Late Classic Weaving and Bayeta
Tempe, AZ Navajo Germantowns were woven during two overlapping periods identified as the Late Classic (1865-1880) and Transitional (1868-1895). Both periods are marked by increasing use of commercial materials and adaptation of designs from Rio Grande, Saltillo and other weaving traditions. During both periods, Germantown yarns were sometimes combined with other available weaving materials, most…
Read MoreThe Brilliance of the Navajo Germantowns: Part II
Tempe, AZ I didn’t say which Sunday I would do the next installment on the Germantowns did I? This time of year offers more than it’s fair share of distractions and writing articles fell by the wayside somewhere between the recipe box and the post office. But, it’s Sunday again and I’ve got some…
Read MoreThe Brilliance of the Navajo Germantowns
Tempe, AZ The Germantown period, which lasted from 1864 until about 1915, represents one of the most vibrantly creative eras in the history of Navajo weaving. The very existence of these textiles is a testimony to the perseverance and will to survive of the Navajo people. Although commercial yarns had been available to the Navajos…
Read MoreAn Alice Van Winkle Thompson Weaving on The Loom
Tempe, AZ Alice Van Winkle Thompson and her daughter-in-law Glenda are approaching completion of the Ganado Red rug in the picture above. It is woven with Brown Sheep yarn that’s been re-spun so that it’s more tightly twisted for better design definition. Alice and Glenda have chosen colors that are just a little different from…
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