Navajo Rugs

Objective:

In this lesson, students will look at a variety of Navajo rug weavings. Students will identify the patterns and the shapes that were used. Using the "Edit Stamp" feature in Kid Pix, students will make their own Navajo rug.

Background Information:

The Navajo people (who call themselves Diné or Dineh) are known for their close relationship with all forms of life, and their desire to live in balance with nature. They are also known for their ability to adapt to their surroundings. The Navajo have a long history with many traditions. They are famous for many arts such as jewelry, pottery, basket making, and sand painting, but they are most famous for their weaving. The Navajo believe that weaving is a gift from a spirit. Their legends say that Spider Woman taught them to weave.

Steps to Follow:

1. Look at some examples of Navajo Rugs. Examine closely the designs and colors they used.

   Canyon Country Originals Premier Navajo Rugs
   Canyon Country Originals Affordable Navajo Rugs
   Santa Fe Ranch Rugs
   Navajo Blanket
   

2. Using Kid Pix you will be able to create your own Navajo Rug.
   • Open Kid Pix and click on the stamp tool.
   • Select a stamp and double click on it. You will be able to edit the stamp to make your stamp design.
   • By choosing the "bomb", you will have a clean area in which to make your design.
   • 
   • This is a sample of an edited stamp design.
   • After creating your stamp design, go back to your Kid Pix document and fill in your page with the medium sized stamp (Hold down the shift key) and the small sized stamp. Fill in any spaces.
   • As a courtesy to the next Kid Pix user, after you have finished, please double click on the stamp you edited and click on "Restore Original".

     
     

3. Here are some samples of student work:

Back to the Tech Lab Page