of Weaving and the Navajo People and traditions.
Aiyana is wearing a biil (pronounced beel in Navajo) and it is also referred to as a rug dress. It is composed of two panels, usually warped and woven side by side to ensure that they are identical and then sewn together leaving openings for the neck and arms. There is usually no shaping, but some weavers have adopted the off-shoulder style. Completing the outfit are a squash blossom necklace, turquoise and coral necklaces, and a concho belt and traditional moccasins with deerskin leggings. Growing up in Arizona and living in the Southwest you learn about the different Native American Tribes in your area. I went to the Heard Museum when I was 8 and fell in love with all things textile and design from the Navajo Tribe. I wanted to share my love for their amazing weaving and jewelry design, by making Aiyana. You can read more about Navajo Biil dresses and the Navajo traditions here on this wonderful website. http://weavinginbeauty.com/weavers-and-their-stories/there-is-no-substitute-the-biil-dress And you can find out more information on the different tribes of the Southwest here. http://heard.org/event/fair-2016/ Instructions 1. Cut Aiyana out on dotted line 2. Cut out Cotton Fabric for back of doll the same size. 3. Pin right sides together 4. Sew all the way around leaving a small opening on top of her head for stuffing. 5. Turn right side out, and turn out corners with a stuffing stick. 6. Fill doll to desired firmness 7. Turn in opening and hand stitch closed the opening. 8. Enjoy your new doll Aiyana!