Displaying Navajo Rugs on Wall
- The first step is to cut your board and Velcro to the appropriate length–you want them to be 2″ shorter than the textile. So if you are hanging a 30″ x 60″ saddle blanket, cut your board and Velcro to 28″ long.
- Next, pull the plastic backing off the male Velcro and press it on to your board.
Can you use a Navajo rug on the floor?
Using a Navajo textile on the floor is pretty simple. Use an appropriate pad and enjoy. There are some rugs that aren’t woven as floor coverings, but that’s pretty obvious. Most questions that I get about display involve how to hang a rug. The answer basically is one word: Velcro.
How do you hang a rug with Velcro?
New rugs will adhere right to the hook side of Velcro. You don’t even need the loop side. I use a piece of particle board or plexiglass that is cut just a little smaller than the rug that I’m hanging. If you are concerned about acid leaching out of the particle board, cover it with washed muslin.
Why hire a Navajo rug appraiser?
No other appraiser is in the position of being so fully immersed in the Navajo rug business that does not buy or sell rugs. Because of this, you receive an accurate, unbiased and objective appraisal. I have been in the unique position of being able to examine a multitude of Navajo rugs and other weavings from around the world.
How much does it cost to clean a Navajo Rug?
When thorough cleaning is needed, look for a professional trained in proper cleaning of Navajo and Oriental rugs. Do not dry clean. I clean rugs at a rate of $6 per square foot. You can contact me for more information on the process.
What is the best way to display a Navajo rug?
2:373:33Proper care of Navajo weavings, rugs and blankets - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe sleeve is a great way to hang the textile. It's a little cost and time prohibitive. But if youMoreThe sleeve is a great way to hang the textile. It's a little cost and time prohibitive. But if you have a very valuable weaving it's really a great way to go.
What do you do with Navajo rugs?
0:143:29Navajo Rugs and Blankets and Moths what to look for and avoid - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThem in a plastic. After we've crinkled them up and freeze them the reason is if it does have mossMoreThem in a plastic. After we've crinkled them up and freeze them the reason is if it does have moss this will hopefully kill any of the larvae. Off as well as the eggs.
How do you hang a heavy Navajo rug on the wall?
To hang your Navajo rug, use a 2” wide Velcro (just need the one-sided 'grabby' side) and a strip of thin wood/molding, to adhere the Velcro to. Measure length of the rug you are hanging and go slightly shorter (by about 1/8th inch) for the length of the wood.
Are Navajo rugs valuable?
Antique Navajo rugs, depending on size can range from around $1,000 up to many thousands. Provenance can also add value to historic Navajo rugs, for example, previous collection history, or prior publication, etc.
What are the 4 categories of Navajo rugs?
These are the Ganado, Klagetoh, Two Grey Hills, and Burntwater rugs described below. The Ganado and Klagetoh tend to have simpler designs than the similar Two Grey Hills, and Burntwater rugs.
How can you tell if a Navajo rug is real?
2:124:16How to Identify Fake Navajo Rugs and Blankets from Mexican CopiesYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe other way you can tell is that Navajo rugs as a general rule have lazy lines lazy lines are aMoreThe other way you can tell is that Navajo rugs as a general rule have lazy lines lazy lines are a diagnostic characteristic of Navajo weaving early weavings that show where the weaver.
How do you display a rug on the wall?
0:072:16How to Hang a Rug With Velcro on Drywall : Wall Repair - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo the way we'll do this is go ahead and peel off one of the sides of the velcro. And stick it ontoMoreSo the way we'll do this is go ahead and peel off one of the sides of the velcro. And stick it onto your rug. Now we'll peel the other side off and stick it to our velcro.
How do you hang a display rug?
1:553:53DIY wall hanging | How to hang a rug in Under 5 MIN - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd i also use a cotton string. To hang the rug. Up you just want to make sure that your string isMoreAnd i also use a cotton string. To hang the rug. Up you just want to make sure that your string is sturdy enough to hold the weight of your rug.
How do you hang a rug on the wall without damaging it?
Using Velcro to hang your area rug on the wall is currently the method preferred by many museums, including The Textile Museum. 1 This method can be used on heavy-weight rugs with success, and without causing damage to the rug. Velcro tape consists of two separate strips: the hook tape and the loop tape.
What is the difference between a Navajo rug and a Navajo blanket?
0:031:57Navajo Rug vs Blanket how to tell the difference and avoid fake Native ...YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipOn the other hand were made by the Navajo people themselves to be used by themselves. It's a veryMoreOn the other hand were made by the Navajo people themselves to be used by themselves. It's a very important distinction those blankets can run anywhere from the timeframe of 1840.
How do you clean a Navajo rug?
Never wash, steam clean or iron a Navajo rug. Some rugs will have fold marks when purchased but these will come out naturally over a period of time after they are mounted or allowed to lie flat. Never shake a rug to clean it as the whip action can break the fibers.
How do you authenticate an Indian rug?
Side Cords They consist of two or three cords that alternate along the edge. Most but not all Navajo rugs will have side cords. If there is a bundle of warps at the edge of each side, then it is unlikely that the rug is genuine.
What is the difference between a Navajo rug and a Navajo blanket?
0:031:57Navajo Rug vs Blanket how to tell the difference and avoid fake Native ...YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipOn the other hand were made by the Navajo people themselves to be used by themselves. It's a veryMoreOn the other hand were made by the Navajo people themselves to be used by themselves. It's a very important distinction those blankets can run anywhere from the timeframe of 1840.
How are Navajo rugs appraised?
0:211:30How to Evaluate Navajo Rugs : Rug Education - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipWhen evaluating the age of Navajo rugs. I look to color see how the colors faded over the years butMoreWhen evaluating the age of Navajo rugs. I look to color see how the colors faded over the years but also touch a lot of younger Navajo rugs feel wax here a little bit unnatural.
Can you wash a Navajo rug?
Never wash, steam clean or iron a Navajo rug. Some rugs will have fold marks when purchased but these will come out naturally over a period of time after they are mounted or allowed to lie flat. Never shake a rug to clean it as the whip action can break the fibers.
What do Navajo patterns mean?
However, each textile individual and has personal or cultural symbolic meaning. Common symbols include crosses for Spider Woman, triangles or diamonds for mountains and the Navajo homeland, zigzags for lightning, Yei spirits, and a spirit line to release spiritual energy from bordered rugs.
What is a Navajo rug?
Navajo Regional Rugs and "Pan Reservation" Rugs c 1900-Today: The majority of Navajo rugs woven of homespun Navajo sheep wool yarn and made after 1890 of medium or heavier weave can be used on either floor or wall interchangeably. On the floor they are generally displayed with a floor pad. On the wall they are generally displayed on Velcro, although there are additional options to wall display as noted above.
How to splice a rug with Velcro?
Press the edge of the rug firmly into the Velcro rubbing the nap of the wool yarn into the hooks/loops of the Velcro
What side of Velcro do you use for a Navajo rug?
Only the male "hook side" (white Velcro in photo) need be used; the female "texture" side is not needed for display as most Navajo rugs and blankets of homespun Navajo sheep wool yarn will have sufficient nap that can be directly rubbed into the Velcro loops to hold the rug in place.
How to display Navajo rugs?
Tape-backed Velcro (usually available through your local hardware store or home improvement store) can be attached to a narrow strip of wood which then can be wood-screwed into a wall to display Navajo blankets and Navajo rugs. Only the male "hook side" (white Velcro in photo) need be used; the female "texture" side is not needed for display as most Navajo rugs and blankets of homespun Navajo sheep wool yarn will have sufficient nap that can be directly rubbed into the Velcro loops to hold the rug in place. Exceptions to this display method are rugs that are too large or heavy or those that have little or no nap (such as Germantown trade yarn weavings ot tapestry weaves). Most other small to medium sized rugs up to about 4'x6' or so can easily be displayed with this method.
What are weaving pads?
On the floor, weavings are often displayed on natural wool or other non-synthetic rug pads and can help keep rugs from slipping on hard surfaces and add to the life and durability of the rug. (Synthetic pads and pads that might get gummy or melt in hot conditions or pads that may transfer color or pattern to rug should be avoided!)
What is a Navajo blanket?
Navajo Serapes/ Shoulder blankets: Typically displayed vertically (with the interior warp running vertically); if displayed on mannequin torso they are draped horizontally as they would have been worn. Soft Transitional blankets are also popular choices for use as decorative bed covers in Southwest and Draftsmen style homes, as well as sofa, chair and furniture throws and covers. Blankets drape nicely over railings to add color to any room.
Where are the Chief's blankets displayed?
Navajo Chief's Blankets: Typically displayed on the wall horizontally as they would have been worn (with the interior warp running vertically); occasionally displayed on mannequin torsos. Pre-1900 chiefs blankets are never displayed on the floor, although some post-1900 rug weight chiefs pattern rugs can be used on the floor if desired.
How to display Navajo rugs?
Tape-backed Velcro (usually available through your local hardware store or home improvement store) can be attached to a narrow strip of wood which then can be wood-screwed into a wall to display Navajo blankets and Navajo rugs. Only the male "hook side" (white Velcro in photo) need be used; the female "texture" side is not needed for display as most Navajo rugs and blankets of homespun Navajo sheep wool yarn will have sufficient nap that can be directly rubbed into the Velcro loops to hold the rug in place. Exceptions to this display method are rugs that are too large or heavy or those that have little or no nap (such as Germantown trade yarn weavings ot tapestry weaves). Most other small to medium sized rugs up to about 4'x6' or so can easily be displayed with this method.
What is a Navajo rug?
Navajo Regional Rugs and "Pan Reservation" Rugs c 1900-Today: The majority of Navajo rugs woven of homespun Navajo sheep wool yarn and made after 1890 of medium or heavier weave can be used on either floor or wall interchangeably. On the floor they are generally displayed with a floor pad. On the wall they are generally displayed on Velcro, although there are additional options to wall display as noted above.
What side of Velcro do you use for a Navajo rug?
Only the male "hook side" (white Velcro in photo) need be used; the female "texture" side is not needed for display as most Navajo rugs and blankets of homespun Navajo sheep wool yarn will have sufficient nap that can be directly rubbed into the Velcro loops to hold the rug in place.
What mats are used to keep rugs from slipping?
On the floor, weavings are often displayed on rug pads--thin and sturdy foam mats are a popular choice and can help keep rugs from slipping on hard surfaces and add to the life and durability of the rug. Rubber pads and pads that might get gummy or melt in hot conditions or pads that may transfer color or pattern should be avoided
What is a Navajo blanket?
Navajo Serapes/ Shoulder blankets: Typically displayed vertically (with the interior warp running vertically); if displayed on mannequin torso they are draped horizontally as they would have been worn. Soft Transitional blankets are also popular choices for use as decorative bed covers in Southwest and Draftsmen style homes, as well as sofa, chair and furniture throws and covers. Blankets drape nicely over railings to add color to any room.
Where are the Navajo Chief's blankets displayed?
Navajo Chief's Blankets: Typically displayed on the wall horizontally as they would have been worn (with the interior warp running vertically); occasionally displayed on mannequin torsos.
Can you tape Velcro to wood before mounting?
Be sure to attach the tape-backed piece of Velcro against a separate piece of wood before mounting on the wall as the tape on the back of the Velcro if attached directly to the wall will remove paint (and probably some wallboard ) if applied directly to wall without using a separate wood strip.
How to keep moths away from wool?
One of the most effective ways that you can keep moths and other pests away from your collection is to never, ever bring raw wool into your home. Quite frequently, the moth eggs are already there when the sheep is sheared. If you don’t process the wool right away and the wool sits in a nice dark bag in your nice warm house, you’ve got a nice moth nursery. Store unwashed wool outside, try to process it as quickly as you can, and be very suspicious of any handspun textiles or yarn that you buy. It’s usually a good idea to wash those thoroughly as quickly as you can. I’ve purchased several handspun rugs that some wool that was spun in the grease, which is charming, but a magnet for dirt and bugs and I get them washed as soon as I can.
How long does Dichlorvos strip last?
I use it only in containers and closed cupboards where I’m storing wool or eliminating an infestation in a rug that I’m fixing. The strips last about four months, so they make a good solution for seasonal homes when used carefully.
What happens if you don't process wool?
If you don’t process the wool right away and the wool sits in a nice dark bag in your nice warm house, you’ve got a nice moth nursery. Store unwashed wool outside, try to process it as quickly as you can, and be very suspicious of any handspun textiles or yarn that you buy.
How to get rid of larvae in a vacuum?
Vacuum the item with using an attachment without a brush. This will remove surface larvae and eggs. Discard the vacuum cleaner bag or empty the vacuum and remove the contents from your home. Do this each time you vacuum during this process. Wrap the item in plastic or put it in a plastic bag and put it into a freezer for two weeks.
What to do if you blot a spill?
Blot spills and stains immediately and contact a professional regarding appropriate removal.
Can you beat warp threads?
Do not beat or shake textiles; this can damage the warp threads.
Can insects damage a canvas?
Second, insects can do significant damage before you can see it. Third, the texture of the textile is obscured by the glass. A better framing solution is to use a pre-stretched canvas and attach the textile to it with, you guessed it, Velcro and then place the canvas a frame as you would a fine oil painting.
What to use on a rug that is hard?
If a rug is used on a hard floor, use a good quality carpet pad or foam. This will prevent slipping and prolong the life of the rug.
How to store a rug long term?
For long term storage, rugs should be mothproofed, rolled and stored in tightly sealed bag. Folding for prolonged periods of time may result in hard to remove creases.
Why is it important to rotate a rug?
Rotating your rug is important for the “movement” of the rug, helps prevent moths and allows for even wearing/fading if there is any. When rotating your rug, go front to back and next time from top to bottom (if without pictorial elements that need to be right side up).
How to keep moths out of rugs?
Air out your rug twice a year, on a clear day, at rotation time. Hang rug outside by draping over a clothesline, balcony/deck, fence – protect underside with a clean white sheet if needed. Airing out occasionally will help prevent moths. If a rug is used on a hard floor, use a good quality carpet pad or foam.
Can you dry clean a Navajo rug?
If a rug is hung on the wall, there may not ever be a need to dry clean it. For spot cleaning, K2R spot remover or Woolite can be used but without water! Navajo rugs need to stay liquid-free and should not be washed. If a rug has prolonged use on the floor or gets stained, it can be DRY-cleaned.
Do you need a clamp for hanging a rug?
This method of hanging puts the least strain on rug fibers, gives even distribution and makes it easier to rotate your weaving. Very old or worn rugs may not have enough “nap” to grab the Velcro and you may need a clamp style hanger for these. For long term hanging, never use clamps unless they go the full length of the rug. Do not nail or tack fibers.
Can you hang a rug on a picture wire?
The hanger you have created can be nailed directly into the wall (preferred) or can be hung on strong picture wire (ok but may detract from rug). The rug can be pressed along the length of the hanger where it will “grab” the Velcro. If you have a rug that curls at the bottom corners, you may support w/ Velcro.
What is a written appraisal of a rug?
A written appraisal would be appropriate or necessary for insurance purposes, claims settlement, donation, equitable distribution of assets, estate settlement or documentation for future users. In a written appraisal, I document each rug and I note the origin, category, type or regional area as well as the construction and materials and the condition of each rug with specifics. Included is a photo, a description of the design and a list of the number of colors along with other pertinent information including the age of the rug. I also look for comparable sales and include those as well. Depending on your needs and the items themselves, I usually base the valuation on the current replacement value (most typically it is the US retail market) as that is usually the most useful figure. A separate computer generated page for each rug is provided along with a transmittal letter that explains the type of value and how I arrived at it. All are bound in an 8 1/2 x 11 inch booklet and mailed to you. I keep the digital photos, notes and a digital copy of the appraisal so a new original copy can be produced if needed in the future. Nothing is discarded so that no one can rummage through the trash cans to discover who you are and what you have. For your security, all the appraisal work is done in my office and no part of it is done by anyone other than myself. The appraisals that I provide are incontrovertible, follow USPAP (Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice) and ISV (International Valuation Standards) protocols and will hold up under any scrutiny.
Can you do a written appraisal with photos?
A written appraisal can be done using photos that you send, much the same way as with the verbal appraisal.
Do you need an appraiser for Navajo rugs?
Navajo rugs and Oriental rugs are so specialized that you need a qualified, credentialed appraiser.
What are selvage lines on a Navajo rug?
Selvage lines run along the sides of the rug. The line is actually two or more threads twisting around each other and interlaced through the edge of the fabric. Selvage lines help the weaver maintain a straight edge and give the rug a finished look. Although the presence of selvage lines helps indicate the authenticity of a Navajo rug, the absence of these lines does not necessarily mean the rug is not authentic. It is possible to see selvage lines in a photograph.
How to tell if a Navajo rug is authentic?
When trying to determine the authenticity of a Navajo rug, one of the first things you should check is the warp. Warp strings run vertically and make up the foundation of the rug. Navajo rugs are made on a continuous loom that contains the actual warp threads. You can check this visually and by running your hand along the side ...
What is Navajo rug?
Navajo rugs are highly sought-after hand-woven textiles that can command a high price. However, it is not uncommon to find sellers who use the term “Navajo” for textiles that look like authentic Navajo rugs but are not Navajo made. Knowing the difference is important to avoid overpaying for textiles that actually have much less value.
What is lazy line in rugs?
Lazy lines appear as a diagonal line in the weave of the fabric. During the weaving process, the rug maker would move to work on adjacent sections of the warp, resulting in the subtle diagonal lines referred to as lazy lines. These lines would be almost impossible to detect by looking at a photograph of the rug online.
Where are Gallup throws made?
There is one exception to the additional indicators of price, material and fringe. Gallup throws, which are woven in the Gallup, New Mexico area , are small textiles measuring about 18 by 24 inches. Gallup throws are made with a cotton warp, and the weaving is cut off and knotted, creating a fringe on one side only.
Who is Michelle Radcliff?
Michelle Radcliff owned a retail home furnishings business for eight years. Radcliff offers decorating advice on her blog, Home Decorating News, is a regular contributor on interior design at LoveToKnow.com and earned certification as an interior decorator from Penn Foster College in 2013. Related Articles.
