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SILVERSMITHING
Here are some sources that provide further information on the history and importance of Navajo silversmithing:
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"Navajo Silversmithing," Navajo Arts and Crafts Enterprise (https://www.navajoartsandcrafts.com/navajo-silversmithing/) This website provides an overview of Navajo silversmithing and its history, as well as examples of Navajo silverwork.
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"Navajo Silversmithing," Southwest Silver Gallery (https://www.southwestsilvergallery.com/navajo-silversmithing/) This article provides a detailed history of Navajo silversmithing, including the influence of Mexican silversmiths and the development of the art form in the early 20th century.
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"Navajo Silverwork," Heard Museum (https://heard.org/exhibits/navajo-silverwork/) The Heard Museum in Phoenix, Arizona has a large collection of Navajo silverwork, and this webpage provides an overview of the art form and its cultural significance.
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"Navajo Jewelry: A Brief History of Navajo Silverwork," Durango Silver Company (https://www.durangosilver.com/navajo-jewelry/) This article provides a comprehensive history of Navajo silverwork, from its origins in the late 19th century to the present day, and includes examples of Navajo jewelry.
These sources provide a good starting point for learning more about Navajo silversmithing and its importance in Navajo culture.
NAVAJO RUG MAKING
The time it takes to make a Navajo rug varies depending on various factors such as the size of the rug, the complexity of the design, the skill level of the weaver, and the amount of time the weaver can dedicate to the project.
A small rug or a rug with a simple design could take a weaver a few days to complete, while larger rugs or rugs with more intricate designs could take several months or even years to finish. Some weavers work on their rugs full-time, while others may only have time to weave in their spare time.
In general, it is safe to say that Navajo rug weaving is a time-consuming and labor-intensive process that requires great skill and patience. The result is a beautiful work of art that can be passed down through generations and admired for its beauty and cultural significance.
Traditionally, Navajo weavers obtained the yarn for their rugs by spinning wool from their own flocks of sheep. The wool would be cleaned, carded, and spun into yarn using a drop spindle or a traditional Navajo spindle called a "tahkli."
Today, Navajo weavers may still use wool from their own flocks, but they also have access to commercially spun yarn in a wide range of colors. Some weavers prefer to use natural, undyed wool or hand-dye their own yarns using traditional methods, while others incorporate commercial yarns into their designs for a wider range of color options.
The wool used by Navajo weavers today often comes from a combination of sources, including the weaver's own flocks, local wool producers, and commercial suppliers. Many weavers take great care to select high-quality wool with a soft, long staple length that is suitable for weaving.
Overall, the sources of wool and yarn used by Navajo weavers have evolved over time, but the tradition of spinning and weaving wool remains an important part of Navajo culture and identity.
Here are some sources that support the information in the paragraph:
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"Navajo Weaving: A Study in Cultural Change" by Gladys A. Reichard (1934) - This book provides a detailed history of Navajo weaving and its cultural significance.
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"Navajo Rugs: The Essential Guide" by Don Dedera (2015) - This book covers the history, design, and production of Navajo rugs, as well as their significance to the Navajo people.
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"Navajo Weaving in the Late Twentieth Century: Kin, Community, and Collectors" by Ann Lane Hedlund (1994) - This article discusses the economic and cultural importance of Navajo rug weaving in modern times.
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"Navajo Rugs: The Art of Cornrow Design" by Marian Rodee (1983) - This book explores the intricate design techniques used in Navajo rug weaving.
These sources, among others, provide a wealth of information on the history and importance of Navajo rug weaving.
here are some sources that provide information on the time it takes to make a Navajo rug:
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"Navajo Weaving Way: The Path from Fleece to Rug" by Noel Bennett and Tiana Bighorse (2016) - This book provides a step-by-step guide to Navajo rug weaving and includes information on the time it takes to complete a rug.
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"The Story of Navajo Weaving" by Kate Peck Kent (2002) - This book covers the history and cultural significance of Navajo weaving and includes information on the time it takes to make a rug.
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"Navajo Rugs: The Essential Guide" by Don Dedera (2015) - This book includes information on the time it takes to make a Navajo rug based on the size and complexity of the design.
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"Weaving a World: Navajo Weavers and the Southwest" by Marilee Wood (2006) - This book explores the art and culture of Navajo weaving and includes information on the time it takes to complete a rug.
These sources, among others, provide insights into the time it takes to make a Navajo rug and the factors that can affect the weaving process.