With the support of this organization, weavers began showing their tapestries at state fairs, exhibitions and museums. This tapestry was entered into the 1961 Arizona State Fair where it won first prize. The weaver, Rose Maloney, used aniline dyed black, red and naturally-colored black and gray yarns. Yarn is either hand spun or bought as commercial yarn and dyed with commercial dye or vegetal dye. Vegetal dyes are made from plant materials, leaves, flowers, fruits, twigs, bark and roots.
Some weavers use the natural wool colors of black, white, brown and gray.
Weaving is usually taught by mothers to their daughters. Designs, styles and patterns can be passed on in a family. Dr. Ann Hedlund, in her book Reflections of the Weaver's World , recorded statements by some contemporary weavers. Several of the weavers who spoke to Dr. Hedlund wished to remain anonymous. It's something that was given to me by my Mom.