Indian Trade Blankets
Whether woven by a Native American or mass-produced by American woolen mills on a Jacquard loom, the blanket is a constant of Native American life and it is inextricably tied to the tradition of trade in the Southwest. To this…
Native American Crafts
Although many Americans are not of Native American descent, it’s hard to deny the beauty that is reflected in Native American crafts.
Many traditional native american crafts have been handed down to younger people by their ancestors. This helps to keep the culture of a particulaar Native American tribe alive.
Making your own Native American crafts is fun. Here you will find a variety of Native American crafts, as well as instructions on how to create your own designs. This is the perfect project for young children, or anyone who is fascinated with Native American culture and tradition.
We also present the traditional meanings and purposes for native crafts through tribal legends and personal antedote.
Read MoreIndian Trade Blankets
The Indian Trade Blanket
Whether woven by a Native American or mass-produced by American woolen mills on a Jacquard loom, the blanket is a constant of Native American life and it is inextricably tied to the tradition of trade in the Southwest.
Meaning of Prayer or Dance Fans Explained
As told to us by our elders, these fans are quite significant to the Native Americans. They are used in the Native American Church to sing and to pray with. They are also used in Pow Wows to dance with.
This story is told according to the teachings of Navajo elders. There are many others told by other tribes, but this is the way my particular fans are put together.The legends told to us about these fans are as follows:
How to weave a cattail mat
Sewn cattail mats were often used as exterior coverings of wigwams. Most full-size sewn cattail mats measured five to six feet wide and 10 feet long. It would take half a dozen or more mats to cover a wigwam.
Fetishes and their character meanings
Prized for their "down to earth" beauty and spiritual renewal, fetishes have long been an important part of Native American culture.
When a fetish maker prays over his created work, a mystical power is believed to be released which can assist him in finding a solution to his present problems.
Hopi silver jewelry is a modern craft
Hopi silver jewelry... KEYWORDS: hopi silver jewelry, sterling silver jewelry, modern silver jewelry
Hopi silver jewelry is a modern craft that has existed as an art form only since about 1890. After World War II, returning Hopi servicemen were trained at a silversmithing school founded under the G.I. bill.