Navajo rugs are a traditional rug woven by Native Americans in beautiful earthy tones to create distinctive patterns perfect for a southwestern theme. Navajo rugs were originally quite unique to certain regions, however this is less so today with many designs based on the individual style of a particular designer.

Genuine Navajo rugs are hand woven on a loom and as such each individual rug is a unique piece of art. Although a genuine Navajo rug may be expensive, you will be purchasing a unique rug that will be a valued investment for years to come.

If your budget doesn’t quite stretch to a genuine rug then Navajo ‘style’ rugs based on traditional Native American designs will still create the look you are after and at a fraction of the cost.

Navajo style rugs are perfectly suited to a southwestern décor with their vibrant earthy tones to complement a myriad of decors particularly those with a modern contemporary feel.

The Navajo Indians produced rugs for many hundreds of years, however, once the Spaniards began to penetrate into the Southwest from Mexico, the Navajo fled into the canyons and added sheep herding to their farming lifestyle. The Navajo continued the art of rug weaving and integrated into the rugs, the wool from the Churro sheep that had been obtained from the Spanish herds.

Navajo rugs were often worn as blankets and were a prized item by cowboys as the lanolin in the wool kept out the rain and kept in the warmth.

It is believed that the Navajo Indians learned their weaving skills from the Pueblo Indians in the late 1600’s. However Navajo legend states that their knowledge of weaving comes from Spider Woman, a mythical Navajo deity.

Navajo rugs also make beautiful wall hangings that will enhance any room. Each design is unique and based on the talents and ideas of the individual artist. There are many examples of these beautiful rugs on the internet and if you find a particular artist whose work you really admire, you are able to commission area rugs made by that artist.

For quality and style, choose a Shaw Rug

Shaw Industries are well known for the superb quality of their carpet. Started in 1946, Shaw established itself by providing proprietary coloring techniques for area rugs, floor rug products and dyes for tufted scatter rugs. They have since grown to be the largest manufacturer of carpets in the world. Shaw manufactures area rugs, carpet, hardwood, laminate and ceramics.

Shaw’s range of area rugs is enormous with styles ranging from modern through to traditional. You can find a rug to suit any décor including southwestern designs, contemporary, floral and novelty.

For the kids there is a fun range of kid’s rugs in bright, bold colors and styles including sea themes, modern designs to suit teenagers, and fun designs by Kathy Ireland that the kids will love.

Shaw rugs designed by eminent artists and designers such as Kathy Ireland, Phillip Crowe and William E Poole will really add a unique touch of class to your home décor.

For a more traditional look, Shaw manufactures Persian style rugs as well as classic floral rugs and antique designs. Classic styles in a range of sizes and shapes including carpet runners are widely available.

You can’t go past the purchase of a Shaw rug for quality, design and hardwearing capabilities.

If you are designing your home with a southwestern décor then southwestern or Navajo rugs will really add the finishing touch. Authentic southwestern rugs are traditionally made by Native Americans and are hand-woven using traditional designs.

The art of weaving Southwestern style rugs is time consuming. In fact the preparation of the yarn often takes longer than the actual weaving. It is for this reason that a number of Navajo Indians are using commercially produced yarn. Today machine-woven Southwestern style rugs can be purchased, and although not authentic they can create the affect you are looking for.

Southwestern area rugs portray the colorful and varied heritage of the Navajo Indian. Many of the designs represent images of crops, rain, feathers, lightning, animals and other nature symbols that are important to the Navajo culture.

The Navajo are famous for their beautiful and durable hand-woven wool rugs. The natural lanolin in the unprocessed wool yarn has given the Navajo rugs a reputation of strength and longevity.

The beautiful earthy tones and colors of southwestern rugs will suit a variety of home decors. They are particularly suited to wood-stained floors and rustic furniture as the vibrant colors really stand out. The strong emphasis on geometric styles and patterns also makes them a perfect addition to a contemporary style home.

Southwestern or Navajo rugs are so striking they can also be used as wall hangings. The beautiful designs and intricate weave patterns make them a focal point in any room.

The range of styles and colors is enormous so you shouldn’t have a problem finding the right southwestern rug to match your décor.

When shopping for a southwestern area rug, not only take into account the size and complexity of the design but also the symmetry and neatness of weave. Navajo rugs are unique and reflect the artist’s style. If you see a rug you like, buy it. As with all purchases you make, the most important factor is that you like the rug.