Living the Dream

I have been interested in Navajo weaving  since dear daughter showed me the wonders of the American southwest in 2016.  Details here.

After our trip, I read lots of books on Navajo culture and weaving.  I finally got the chance to take a class last week.  Susan Meyers of Living the Dream arranged for a class by Roy Kady   Roy is a  master weaver from Teec Nos Pos Arizona and came to Frisco, NC to teach.

Hand dyed Churro

Roy brought looms, tools and beautifully dyed yarns to share as well as his gentle spirit and expertise.  We spent the first day warping our looms.

Judith tackles the scary part


 When Spider Boy brought the first loom to the Navajo , he fashioned it's frame from the power of the sun, the lashing cords of lightning and the warp strings of rain. Roy explained the importance of weaving and the signifigance of each step in the process.

We learned the hands on basics of Navajo weaving and history and culture as well.  There were only five of us so we got lots of personal attention. 

Susan, our host weaving on her rug.

Roy shows me how to ply the yarns for twining.

There is traditionally a twined or braided edge at the top and bottom edge of the rug.

Look at that beautiful twined edge.

Day one was warping and choosing four yarns for our weavings. 

 Day two we began weaving and settled into the weaving.  I love being in the company of other weavers, there is a sense of coming together in a common task that is extraordinary. 

Roy helps Sharon with her weaving.

Unfortunately,  the three days went much too quickly.  Our weavings weren't complete but Roy ensured we had the knowledge, yarn and tools to finish.

Susan was a gracious host, the other weavers were interesting, engaging women and Roy a generous and knowledgeable teacher.  It was a wonderful opportunity to spend a week in lovely Frisco and indulge my passion for Navajo weaving.

This is my weaving after day three along with the yarns and tools from Roy.  The back deck of our house was a great weaving spot with a stellar view.