A rich tradition of fiber arts in New Mexico
When the Spaniards introduced sheep to this region, first the agriculturally-based pueblos began raising sheep and weaving with their wool (they were already proficient at weaving with cotton). After a time, the nomadic Navajos began raising sheep and the women became skillful weavers, a tradition that has continued for centuries. They say that no two rugs are alike and that the Najavo reservation in northeastern New Mexico can be divided into 13 distinct weaving regions, each with a unique style.
Early tourists exploring New Mexico were captivated by the hand-woven rugs of the native people. Navajo rugs quickly became highly desired by collectors and travelers, and the culture of creating fine fiber arts continues today throughout the state.
The art of Navajo rug weaving is celebrated the second Friday of each month (check their website to confirm dates) in Crownpoint, in northwestern New Mexico. The Crownpoint Rug Auction is held at the Crownpoint Elementary School where 300 - 400 handwoven Navajo rugs are auctioned off each month. Viewing begins at 4 p.m. and the auction kicks off at 7 p.m. Before and during the auction, a wide variety of arts and crafts are also available for purchase, including turquoise jewelry and pottery.
You can discover fiber arts throughout the state by following the Fiber 
Arts Trails or attending rug festivals and sales. The Fiber Arts Trails were created as a collaboration between New Mexico Arts and local fiber arts groups as a way to support artists and give visitors the opportunity to discover them. Rag Rug Festivals & Design Collectives, which are held at various times of the year in Las Cruces, the Four Corners area and Santa Fe provide the opportunity to buy a wide variety of beautiful fiber arts.
Programs such as Tres Manos, located in a colonia in southern New Mexico, provide training for local women so that they can learn a skill that can become the basis of a home-based business. Their weavings are often sold at local shops and rag rug festivals, providing a source of income - and pride.
| Dates | Location | Event |
|---|---|---|
| March 5 & 6, 2011 | Las Cruces | Rag Rug Festival & Design Collective Las Cruces, NM Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum |
| Aug. 13 & 14, 2011 |
Santa Fe | Rag Rug Festival & Design Collective, Udall Center, Museum Hill, 725 Camino Lejo |
| Oct. 28 & 29, 2011 | Farmington | Rag Rug Festival & Design Collective, Farmington Museum, Gateway Park |
Every Saturday |
Santa Fe | NM Women's Foundation Saturday Showroom - home decorator fabrics and donated art/accessories at bargain prices. 3204 Mercantine Court, Suite B |
