Navajo Rugs
Navajo rugs and blankets are the textiles that are handicraft of the Navajo people. Navajo Indian rugs are made by the Navajo people who belong to the four corner areas in the United States. Navajo rugs are flat embroidery woven textiles which bear their resemblance with kilims from the Eastern Europe and the western Asia. Navajo tradition tells us that it’s the men folk who construct the looms while the women are involved in the weaving.
History of Navajo rugs
It is believed that the Navajos acquired their weaving skills from the pueblo Indians who became their neighbors in 1300 to 1500 when they shifted to the four corners area. By the time it was 1600 the Navajo weavers were highly skilled and efficient in their work and the contemporary Navajo rugs are the reflection of the art that evolved during that period. By the time it was 1700 the Navajo people started importing their favorite yarn which was mostly of the bayeta red color. An upright loom was put into use to make exclusive utilitarian Navajo rugs. Since that time there was no looking back for the Navajo rags as they became immensely popular among the people and became exquisite piece of art.
Navajo rugs are not only very beautiful but also quite valuable. To retain the beauty that marks the Navajo rugs it very important to take proper care of both antique as well as the contemporary Navajo rags. Here are a few simple advices that can help one in maintaining the Navajo rugs and making them more durable:
1)It is recommended to use a carpet in case the Navajo rugs are kept on the floor. Rug pads ensure that Navajo rugs are not spoiled. One should avoid using jute, waffle or a rubber rug pad.
2)Periodic flipping of the Navajo rugs is quite necessary to evenly distribute the wear and the fading.
3)One should always make sure that there are no insect damage to the Navajo rugs they own by treating them against moths and beetles.
4)The vacuum cleaner put in to use to clean the Navajo rugs should not have rotating motor driven brushes.
5)The pets should be trained to behave because the urine stains are practically irremovable and the damage done by chewing of the rug by a pet animal is irreparable.
6)One more thing that should be kept in mind is that the Navajo rugs should not get wet and if by chance if it does drying should be done in the shortest time possible.