how to clean native american rugs

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They had multiple uses as both coats and as blankets and showcased a variety of colors and designs. As a result of their durability, versatility, and decorative patterns, Navajo blankets became an item of value. Subsequently, the blankets were pricey. Those with the means, such as tribal chiefs, valued the blankets and wore them often, including for ceremonial reasons, per PBS. As they continued to improve and hone their blanket-weaving skills, the Navajo started to evolve their techniques. It resulted in blankets with more styles and colors, and more elaborate designs — all of which took a dedicated amount of time, says the Traditional Fine Arts Organization. They soon grew their product output from blankets and wraps to rugs, and the demand for both continued to increase. Traders, in particular, drove this demand, and it further influenced regional designs. Eventually, the Navajo even started to feature their gods and spiritual figures in their woven creations. By the 19th century, a Navajo blanket cost around $100 to $150 — that's during a period when men made about $5 a week, according to PBS. Today, people can purchase Navajo blankets or rugs from anywhere between under $500 to several thousand dollars (via Navajo Rug).

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There are two exceptions for the "no frill" rule. Germantown rug fringe is an added feature that is added to the rug when it is being woven. These fringes are rare, and you'll find a good photo of one below. A fringed antique Germantown can be worn down or removed entirely but does not alter the structure of its textile. Gallup throws are an exception to this rule. These are small pieces, usually measuring 18 by 24 inches in size and are woven locally in Gallup. Gallup throws are made on a cotton weave. The weaving is cut off and then knotted. This leaves a fringe only on one side. There are many Gallup throws on the market that were sold to Sante Fe train passengers. These are a nice addition for a collection. They can be purchased for $40-50, but I've seen them selling for as much as $250 on eBay.

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There are 2 exceptions to this "no fringe" rule. Germantown rugs include a fringe that is added after the rug has been woven. They are quite rare and you can see a photo of one. The fringe on antique Germantowns may be part worn off or completely gone, but this doesn't mean that the textile is damaged. Gallup throws, however, are the exception to the rule. These tiny pieces measure 18"x24", and are woven in Gallup, New Mexico. Gallup throws typically have a cotton warp. However, the weaving is cut apart and knotted in a different way to create fringe at the ends. Gallup throws were sold to train travelers along the Sante Fe rail line. There are thousands. They make a wonderful addition to a collection. I've seen them for sale on eBay for $250.

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native american rugs los angeles olimpic blvd

Contemporary Navajo rugs, again depending on size, can range from UNDER $500 up to many thousands. The number of Navajo weavers working today is dwindling. Many of the young weavers are not learning this sacred Navajo weaving tradition, as it is a very time consuming and disciplined art form. When considering whether to purchase a Navajo Rug or not, know this is a way to encourage young Navajos to learn to weave and keep the traditional Navajo Rug weaving alive.

how to clean native american rugs

We have posted pricing information for all Navajo rugs on our website. If a price isn't visible, it may be part of our exclusive Navajo Churro Collection or one of our most valuable and important Antique or Contemporary Navajo Rugs. These pieces can be priced by us. My eyebrows immediately rose when I saw that a 19th-century antique Navajo blanket was up for auction at $1,800,000. "What?!" "What?" I thought to my self, or maybe I spoke it aloud. "How can that blanket sell for such high prices?" It was a blanket of ordinary quality, not more interesting or elegant than any other Moroccan in our gallery. It was more like the similar-colored, simple-woven baby blanket that I insist on sleeping with for years. I nicknamed it "car seat blankey" as it spent most of its time cuddling with me on short trips to preschool or longer rides to my home in the country.

how to clean native american rugs
ebay area rugs native american design
ebay area rugs native american design

The end borders in Mexican imitation Navajo rugs are generally much wider than in a genuine Navajo rug. Side borders are often wider as well. If the rug has fringe at both ends that are extensions of the warps, then it is not a genuine Navajo rug. Wool is the standard material used in the making of a Navajo rug. There are a few genuine Navajo rugs made using synthetic materials such as acrylic. If encountering one, it could be looked at as the result of a Navajo woman weaving her own cheap knock-off. In such case, it probably doesn't matter is it is real or not.

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After being at war with white settlers as well as other Native tribes the Navajo honed a skill which allowed them to make blankets. The Navajo are very well-known for their weaving skills. PBS reported that they learned how to make wool and herd sheep in the 17th Century from Spanish immigrants. In the late 17th-century, they had learned from the Pueblo intricate weaving methods. The Navajo mastered weaving techniques and produced blankets of such high quality they could actually hold water. They could be used both as blankets as well as coats. Navajo blankets are a valued item because of their durability and versatility as well as their decorative patterns. The blankets became more expensive. The blankets were appreciated by those who had the resources, such as tribal chiefs.

how to clean native american rugs
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Just send us an email with your order number and we’ll send you instructions.  We will give you a full refund within the first 60 days after your order ships out.  After that, we have to charge a 25% restocking fee. You are responsible for return shipping fees unless you are swapping for a different design or size.
As soon as your order ships, you will receive an email with tracking info and then following emails with shipping updates.
Yes! We can ship anywhere in the world. Please send us an email with your address before placing an order outside of the US and Canada though. We need to partially charge you for shipping when you place your order.
We find rug pads are not necessary to protect your flooring. However, some people choose to use rug pads to prevent their rug from sliding around.
Yes, please let us know within 3 days from when you placed your order.
We accept all major credit or debit cards. You can also pay with your PayPal account.
All of our rugs are made to order and go through a rigorous inspection process. You can typically expect your rug to be shipped 2 weeks from when you make your purchase.