Weaving Whirlwind

Third grade students began this unit by examining some Navajo rug and tapestry weavings.  We pointed out how most used neutral colors and displayed geometric many patterns using geometric shapes.  After learning a little bit more about the history of Navajo weaving, students discovered that the yarn used to make these weavings, came from sheep and traditionally were the natural color with little or no dye applied.  Additionally, after becoming familiar with the natural landscape of the Navajo Nation,  we were able to see why some of the  common imagery used, depicted grey hills and crystal patterns.  Most importantly, we learned how these weavings began being produced purely for functional reasons and only after becoming a very popular trade item , did that purpose change. 

Navajo winter hogan with blanket used as a door, 1880-1910

Navajo Weavers, 1972

Two Grey Hills Navajo weaving

 In an effort to create our own pouches,  we defined a weaving to be when fabric is woven together by interlocking vertical (WARP) and horizontal (WEFT) thread on a loom.  We examined a variety of traditional and non traditional looms and then used chipboard to warp our own loom.  Next, students planned out a few color choices for their tabby weaves (a weave with horizontal lines) and carefully chose colors that had some meaning or was aesthetically pleasing to them. Once students were comfortable with the process of weaving, many weaved multiple pouches and even attached flaps, straps, and buttons. Most of the weaving was done outside of class and students were able to refer to videos I made on the art studio blog for each step with extra help during the studio time.  Some students even started weaving clubs, in hopes to sell some of their woven merchandise.  

Warping Loom

Weaving flap

Student weavers

Student Examples

Other Resources: As a good introduction to weaving we read the book below: