Dye Master at Work!

Master weaver and dye artist Helen Bia hard at work!

Step 1 - make the dye

Step 2 - add the wool and simmer

Step 3 - let the wool cool and sit to absorb the dye

Step 4 - check the color intensity

Step 5 - once the desired color is achieved, rinse the wool and let dry.

Making natural dyes and hand dying wool in incredibly time consuming.  Very few weavers today take the extra time and effort to hand dye their wool.  

It is a family tradition in certain weaving families along with "secret" family dye recipes. 

Thank you Helen for giving us a glimpse into a day in the life of a Master Navajo Weaver.

Below is the final product!

Chinle : Navajo Rug : Helen Bia : Churro 1703 :

26" x 36" (2'2" x 3') : $4,000

Fully insured shipping, or see it in person at the gallery in Sonoita by appointment. Call 520-455-5020.

New to Navajo weaving? The gallery's journal explains the regional styles, Churro wool, and how to care for and hang a rug. Read the articles or watch the videos.