Begay-Foss Designs' custom rugs, saddle blankets are 100% Navajo designed and woven.The blankets
are designed by Joyce Begay-Foss, who is an award-winning weaver and currently Director of
Education for the New Mexico Museum of Indian Arts and Culture. She is also a contributing author
on weaving techniques in Navajo Saddle Blankets, Textiles to Ride in the American West, published
by Museum of New Mexico Press 2002.
The blankets are hand woven on vertical looms from custom-spun Navajo churro wool by weavers
on the Navajo nation. Blankets woven on vertical upright looms have a continuous warp with edge
and side cordage. Only natural dyes or natural wool colors are used in the manufacture of the
blankets; no synthetic dyes are ever used. Since all dyes are derived from natural sources, the
range of colors is less extensive than with artificial dyes. Examples of dyes used include indigo,
cochineal, navajo tea, rabbit brush, etc. No harsh chemicals or treatments will be applied to the wool.
Each blanket is individually made to the customer’s specifications. We include here several
traditional patterns which can be modified to the customer’s wishes. In addition, we will weave in
initials or brand designs into the blankets on the customer’s request. We carry no in-stock blankets;
each is individually crafted to the customer’s specifications, thus guaranteeing a one-of-a-kind
original.
Most rugs or saddle blankets designated “Navajo-style” or “Southwestern” are inauthentic imports, made
with synthetic dyes, often under “sweatshop” conditions. Ours are 100% Navajo designed and
hand-woven -- with Navajo churro wool and natural dyes-- in the homes of the Navajo weavers.
We are currently undergoing a 'face lift', so if you have any questions or would
like more information about the services we provide please feel free to contact us.
Email: jbfoss@cybermesa.com
P.O. Box 1322, San Juan Pueblo, New Mexico 87566