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Navajo Rugs - Woven Native American Art

The history of Navajo weaving extends back over two centuries. The Navajo are famous for their hand-woven wool rugs, which are both beautiful and durable. It is the natural lanolin in the unprocessed wool yarn that has given the Navajo rugs their reputation of strength and longevity. The art of weaving a fine quality rug takes many long hours. The preparation of the yarn alone often takes longer than the task of weaving the rug. It is for this reason that processed and commercially spun yarn is now popular among many Navajo weavers.

The modern, contemporary period of Navajo weaving is defined today by the identification of weaving styles primarily related to geographic origin. These regional styles can be traced back to the personal design preferences of a few highly influential traders, and have resulted in the development of basically 17 styles of Navajo weaving. When shopping for a Navajo rug, consider the size and complexity of the design. Symmetry and neatness of weave is also important. All Navajo rugs are unique and reflect the style and tastes of the artist. If you see a rug you like, buy it. The most important factor is that you like the rug.