What Are the Small Navajo Rugs?
So you’ve decided to buy a Navajo rug, but how do you know if it’s the right one? This article explores the many styles available. From Teec Nos Pos to Churro Sheep, these small rugs can be an excellent way to showcase your home’s style. Read on to learn more. But first, what are the important features of a Navajo rug?
Chinle style
The Chinle style of small Navajo rugs is a traditional regional style. Named for the town of Chinle, Arizona, these rugs are characterized by simple, repeating geometric designs and stripes of contrasting colors. Colors are typically pastel, though some are bright and colorful. The Chinle style is one of the earliest Navajo rugs.
The Wide Ruins style was developed in the 1939-1940 era and are reminiscent of Chinle rugs. The design is characterized by broad bands of contrasting colors and narrow bands with intricate motifs. Often, lozenges are visible within the bands. The Wide Ruins area is the site of the second all-vegetal dye center. These rugs are woven in the Wide Ruins district of the Navajo Nation.
Teec Nos Pos
The Teec Nos Pos is a traditional design that exemplifies Navajo textile craft. These rugs feature colorful designs in a unique triangular pattern. The design elements on this rug are grouped in triangular formations, with stylized eyes and mouths. The pattern is created by weaving alternating stripes of black and white yarns, with accent colors of brown, black, and turquoise.
This Navajo rug features the Sacred People known as Yes. These tall, slender figures communicate with the Navajo gods and are generally depicted face-front. They are often depicted carrying rattles and cornstalks. These rugs are extremely popular in many homes and make beautiful additions to any room. Although these rugs are considered small, the traditional design of these pieces may be reminiscent of a large rug.
Churro Sheep
Although the number of Churro sheep has decreased over the last 20 years, the Churro sheep are still being used for weaving. Their fleeces are long and stapled, and contain three distinct fiber types: crimp, fine, and coarse. They are used for rugs, blankets, and other items. Churro sheep were used to make rugs by Native Navajo people for generations.
Navajo-Churro sheep have a long, protective top coat and woolly undercoat. They can live in extreme climates and have four horns. These sheep can also lamb easily, and their meat has a low-fat content. Navajo Churro sheep wool is durable, but it is not as soft as other sheep’s wool.
