Like weaving itself, Navajo and Hopi Weaving Techniques, published in 1974, will never go out of date. Mary Pendleton, a long-time skilled weaver who relocated to Arizona in 1958, explains both techniques in an easily understandable, step-by-step process with abundant close-up photos to illustrate the lessons. With sample patterns, Pendleton takes you, row by row, through the weaving of a rug, a belt and a sash.
Like two books in one, this wonderful publication first examines and explains Navajo rug weaving with attention to yarns, spinning and dyeing, turned lock and interlock methods, design and troubleshooting. She also has instructions on building your own loom. The second part, also with details on yarn, spinning, design, troubleshooting, and loom instructions, demonstrates two separate Hopi weaving techniques, warp float weave and embroidery weave.
Howard Gorman, member of the Navajo Tribal Council, introduces the first part. White Bear Fredericks, a member of Coyote Clan of the Hopi Nation, introduces the second. Eight pages of color photos display several rugs, sashes and belts woven with these methods.