Thursday

Native American Blankets

Native Americans are well known for their skill of weaving rugs and blankets. Because the American Indians create much of their supplies by hand, they are very talented in the art of crafting Native American blankets. Many cultural groups across the globe have special practices which make them unique. Part of the American Indian culture entails creating beautiful pottery pieces, jewelry, beadwork, and articles of clothing.

Furthermore, Native American blankets are often used as clothing among the women. Because some Indians reside in northern parts of the country, clothing using animal skin was necessary for warmth. In addition, Indians used a variety of thick Native American blankets to warm children. Blankets are available in a selection of styles. Lightweight blankets are perfect for wrapping the body on chilly days, whereas heavy blankets are intended for very cold weather.

For the most part, the majority of Americans respect the first nation of North America. Hence, many Americans are willing to offer their support and buy authentic Native American blankets and other artifacts. Locating genuine Indian items can be tricky. It all depends on your location. If living near an Indian reservation, there are likely several retail shops that advertise authentic Indian merchandise. Moreover, touring an Indian reservation presents numerous opportunities to buy authentic Native American blankets.

Photo: Shannon Francis Hopi /Dineh Tribe - Cheeseman Park in Denver 

Native American blankets include many styles. Those browsing the collection of blankets may choose simple designs which usually consist of plain colors, or blankets that include intricate designs with a Native American flare. In addition to purchasing a blanket, American Indians and non-Indians may choose to craft their own Native American blankets. The majority of these classes are taught by American Indians. There are many classes available that will teach you the basics on weaving blankets, as well as books that can serve as good resources.


Prior to 1900, old Navajo wearing blankets often carried symbols or motifs that were attached to the teachings of Spider Woman. Perhaps the symbol or motif that dominated those early blankets was the cross.


It’s almost a symbiotic relationship Pendleton blankets are associated with important events, and have been for hundreds of years. They are given as gifts at graduations, at powwow give-aways, as thank you gifts, in commemoration of births and deaths, you name it.

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Responses to "Traditional Blankets And Their True Meaning to Native Americans"

  1. Unknown says:

    The more that I learn of the wonderful and true Americans of this country the more I am ashamed of my history and past relatives whom ever they were that distroyed a way of life that should have never been touched by white hands. I greatly admire all the Native Americans and love learning about your wonderful culture and customs. I have never has the pleasure of meeting a Native American. For me, it would be an honor like no other my government has ever given me in the two wars and part of another that I served in. I will retire soon and travel in your country and meet as many Native Americans so that I may learn from them and make friends along the way.

  2. Unknown says:

    Part of My Heritage was Lost Because Of what was Done...and it cannot be Undone! My Great grand mother was Cherokee, but THAT was a secret! Things Changed and We cannot get things Back. I truly Feel I am a Part of My Cherokee Heritage , I do things None of my Friends Do!!!
    I am called to plant every spring, and I make medicine for my family. We Live By Honesty and Use Everything we can find to Create.
    It makes me Sad that there is a Part of My Family I was NOT ALLOWED to Learn about. It will Always be a Trail of Tears.

  3. KC says:

    My Mom full Shuswap Nation Native Just gave me her blanket, I was so Touched cried with tears of joy all the home to Sk.it is my most treasured gift to date <3 Kukschem, Thanks to my English side for thoughtful word on this page hugs all <3

  4. Anonymous says:

    Unfortunately I believe that racism is alive and well in the US. We still have a lot of work to do before your claim that "For the most part, the majority of Americans respect the first nation of North America" becomes a reality.

  5. Proud N/A medicine woman - However, I continue to be saddened and ashamed of past events in the history of the USA.
    My Great Grandmother, at the time of the trail of tears, was a baby and was dropped off in a basket, on the doorstep of a non Indian family - They who thankfully took her in and provided love,food and shelter. This action was taken on the part of the tribe. It was in attempt of the survival of a child and of a people.
    As a result of this atrocity, much of my past history, has been lost, and is non-trace-able. Although, I do know the way and am aware of much -
    My Grandmother (1913-2013), grew up wearing long sleeves, long pants and scarves, to hide her beautiful skin away from the sun, and others who were not of color - This, out of fear from the past! Unfortunately my mother was killed at a young age, leaving me behind to understand the ways of the peoples of our world - I was one of two N/A in the public school in our small town. Life in the sixties, was not an easy one for a young Indian.

    Blessings to us all.

  6. Beautiful. Thank you

  7. Anonymous says:

    Please take this as a comment in kindness. I wish people would quit wringing their hands in hating past injustices, or despising the white race or any other race, for that matter. Better to learn to love one another in the present. We cannot change the past, nor dwell in the future; we can only occupy the present.

  8. Anonymous says:

    The guilty always say, "forget the past," while those scarred by evil deeds always look for justice. Those guilty of attacking, killing and oppressing the black, brown, red and yellow races only seem to seek justice when something happens to them. They have not changed one bit from then to now.

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