Oriental Rugs Dictionary

Bayeta Serapes

Bayeta is a fabric woven on treadle looms in New Mexico in the 19 Century. The nap was raised on the fabric after it was taken off the loom. Also, wool yarn from blankets made in Spain and England was unraveled ny Navajos and rewoven into Navajo blankets. Dyes used in these yarns are critical in dating Navajo blankets of 19 Century. The English equivalent to bayeta is baize. Bayeta Serapes are a type of Navajo blankets woven between 1830 and 1850 and containing a high proportion of bayeta yarn. These blankets were of the highest weaving quality. A common design was diamonds superimposed on stripes.