Artist not known, Navajo, Eyedazzler Blanket/Rug, about 1885. Textile. 71in. Width: 54 in. Denver Art Museum; Gift of Mrs. Charles Macallister Willcox.
Instructions:
- Provide an 8x10 piece of felt with slits one inch apart across almost the entire width of the piece.
- Leave a one inch space around the entire felt piece as a border.
- Provide various material choices to weave in and out of the slits:
- Pipe cleaners
- Cut paper (paper bag, card stock, etc)
- Heavy yarn pieces
- Ribbon
- Burlap
Guiding Questions:
- We each started with the same blank piece of felt. Now that we are finished are any of the two projects in the class alike?
- Why is it important to weave in and out?
- What materials feel rough? Smooth?
- What colors or patterns do you see?
TIP: Practice in small groups before placing it in a self-led center. Introduce students to the materials and show an example of the art of weaving.
Related Creative Activities
Collage with Glue, Paper, and Tissue
Drip Drop Paint
Building with Natural Found Objects
Sorting Box
Shells in Clay and So Much More
The children will use their imaginations to interact with and discover elements of the Orator’s Stool. They will also have an opportunity to experiment with materials similar to those used to decorate the face on the stool.
Bumpy, Lumpy and Special
Children will learn how things that are bumpy, lumpy, and not necessarily “perfect” are often just as special as things that seem smooth and “perfect.” They will have an opportunity to explore the idea that imperfection is still important and beautiful (wabi sabi).
