Native American WeavingWhen the Spanish arrived in the Sierra Tarahumara in the early 1600's, with the introduction of sheep, the Tarahumara begun weaving clothing and blankets of wool by 1625. Blankets are made from homespun yarn, usually in the natural colors of dark brown and white. These blankets serve the very useful purpose of keeping people warm during the frigid winter months. They are woven in a most ingenious open weave so that the air spaces provide additional insulation. A broad horizontal loom is used for weaving. It is usually set low to the ground in the shade if possible. The weaver sits at the end to work. The finished product may take months to complete.
|