The term “Chilkat weaving” pertains to any garment woven together by the Chilkat culture off of the Alaskan coast. Chilkat weave constructs items such as blankets and robes while commonly being colored with natural pigments dyes. Native Americans make the majority of this type of robe because of their expertise in the production of the garment.
Source:
Britannica, T. E. (2017, April 17). Chilkat weaving. Retrieved from https://www.britannica.com/topic/Chilkat-weaving
Felting is the world’s first known textile technique dating back to the Fifth Century B.C. and is believed to have been first crafted in Turkey or regions neighboring. It was a vital part of their nomadic existence, and played an important role in housing their families, herding their cattle, and protecting themselves in ever-changing environments. Their innovation at the time is incredible and their craftsmanship is shown through their many felt crafts and hand-designed carpets used to trade in markets. While little evidence exists of where they learned the skills passed down, there are still small nomadic tribes that still practice the art today, and continue to teach the techniques.
The Navajo Nation extends into the states of Utah, Arizona and New Mexico. The name Navajo comes from the Pueblo Indian word for “planted fields” or “farmlands.” The Navajo people are regarded and famous for their colourful and intricate design of weaving. They hold on to these traditions to showcase and preserve their ancestors.