Artist Profile

I weave rugs inspired by natural animal fibers. The fibers are prepared, and spun, by hand the in order to keep the character of the animal in the yarns. This then becomes the focus of the design. The simple designs are honored with careful finishing details.

This year (2008/9) the Llama with its wide range of natural hair color has been the focus of my rugs. These natural colors are framed by motifs and colors inspired by the traditional textiles of their home in the Andes.

Last year the focus was on camel hair. The designs include large expanses of natural camel hair reflecting the sparse surrounding of these animals and the jouneys they make.

My rugs have appeared in juried exhibits, won awards, and have been featured in national spinning and weaving magazines (see my website barbarastafford.net for details).

Visit my studio during the Arts Council Napa Valley Open Studios weekends to see the rug making process. You will also have the opportunity to throw the shuttle on a loom with guidance and encouragement of Members of the Silverado Weavers Guild.