New to our line up of fabulous tools for weavers are our Navajo beaters.  Each beater is one of a kind, made from a variety of exotic hardwoods.  These beaters were designed after visiting with experienced weavers at the Damascus Pioneer Craft School.

Navajo weaving really got it’s start with the Pueblo Indians.  After learning the trade from the Pueblo, Navajo women expanded the craft by skipping over threads in the weft.  This created the angles in what we know as Navajo patterns instead of the straight stripes used by the Pueblo.  Further advancements led to the use of symbols woven into their textiles.

The Navajos used the fleece from Churro sheep to create their woven blankets.  The fiber was woven tight and strong, so strong that it kept out water.  The blankets were highly prized for their warmth for the tribe.  They were also traded for other goods.

Beaters are used to make weft placement easy.  The Duncan beaters are weighted with shot, carved for that perfect fit whether you are right or left handed, inlaid with gorgeous materials and hand rubbed down to a warm shine.

Perfect for gift giving, we currently have two left with more on the way.  Check out the Navajo Tools page in our store.