What Native American Tribes Wove Rugs?
Want to know what Native American tribes weaved the first rugs? Read this article for information on Navajo, Pueblo, Teec Nos Pos, Zuni, and Hopi. Then, you can make your own Native American rug. The Navajo, Pueblo, and Teec Nos Pos tribes all have beautiful, intricate weavings. Here’s a list of the most well-known tribal rugs.
Navajo
To identify a Navajo weaved rug, look for the following characteristics: fringe, color, and materials. A Navajo weaved rug is typically made of 100% wool. Its side selvage cord is typically twisted, and its pattern is continuous. The fringe also helps to distinguish a Navajo rug from a Mexican one. The warps in a Navajo rug are generally three to four thin strands, twisted together.
The quality of a Navajo weaved rug varies widely, depending on its age, size, and weaver’s skill. In the 1910s-1920s, quality was fairly good. As the number of buyers rose, weavers began deliberately overlooking quality control. Today, a Navajo weaved rug can be worth up to $8000. A Navajo rug will typically be a great investment if it is made of high-quality wool.
Pueblo
A Navajo pueblo tribe weaves rugs using a traditional spinning technique, which evolved from the work of ancient Navajo weavers. The weaving process involves spinning wool and dying it with natural dyes. The Navajos used the mistletoe fungus found on juniper trees and the yellow that comes from the flowers and stems of Chamizo plants. Other natural dyes include cedar bark, onion skins, and blood roots.
The patterns are usually a series of right-angled small figures. The best examples of Pueblo designs are the elaborate sandals worn by the tribe’s men and women. In addition to the shoes, these designs are also found on headbands used to carry burdens. The designs are not always rectangular but instead consist of sharp zigzagging lines. The motifs on the rugs are often a combination of various shapes.
Teec Nos Pos
The Rugs of the Teec Nos Pos Native American tribes are known for their distinctive style and designs. Originally influenced by Persian rugs, Teec Nos Pos rugs are often decorated with geometric patterns and stylized tulip designs. They are typically made from undyed, natural wool and are usually very high-quality. These rugs also feature “spirit lines” around the borders.
The unique pattern on a Teec Nos Pos Rug is not found in any other Navajo rug. The design is very reminiscent of Oriental patterns. In fact, a missionary who lived in the area created the design. It features wide borders with geometric elements and a bold center with unusual geometric patterns. The rugs are usually woven with natural dyes, with the early versions featuring a turquoise blue color and feather pictorials.
Zuni
Azuni hand-woven rug is known for its eggshell white center and vibrant red or black border. Its striking white lines cut through the red segments. This Native American Indian piece is thought to be from the first quarter of the 20th century and measures approximately 38 1/2″ x 50″.
The pattern on a Zuni rug is often based on a woven blanket. The stripes on a Zuni blanket are narrow and thin, representing clouds. The pattern may be symmetrical or non-symmetrical, but the design remains the same. The pattern on the rug is a reflection of the weavers’ spiritual beliefs. Although this is a unique piece of art, its resemblance to clouds has been a common theme in many Zuni works.
