New Mexico's Fiber Arts Trail - Small Towns, Colorful Weavings, History and Heritage

There are many ways to tour an area. We've followed in the footsteps of an artist, taken train rides and gone gallery-hopping. But one of the most colorful and relaxing trips I can remember was following a rural New Mexico Fiber Arts Trail.

The trail we followed took us back to the time of the Hispanic settlers who came to the area to farm. In the cold winters they wanted to remain productive so they spent time weaving. First the blankets, mattresses and clothing were for their neighbors and ultimately, when the railroad was extended north of Santa Fe, they marketed their textiles to a greater market.

Now you can tour some of the family-owned weaving shops, purchase rugs and clothing made right there on the premises in the traditional styles. You can also see the process, from start to finish, of spinning and dyeing yarn. Traveling the back roads of northern New Mexico is a relaxing experience and the colors of the textiles you will discover are a feast for your eyes.

• Weavers of New Mexico
• Following the Rural Fiber Arts Trail
• Fiber Arts Trail Photos

Photo Credit: Elizabeth R. Rose - Ortega's makes coats from their hand woven material