Chimayo Weaving with Lisa & Irvin
Dive into the historic art of Chimayó weaving with Lisa and Irvin Trujillo, nationally recognized master weavers and pivotal figures in American craft, serving as contemporary stewards of this centuries-old tradition. Learn the physical logic of the loom, explore the relationship between color and pattern, and weave intricate tapestries while soaking the cultural and natural beauty of northern New Mexico. Beyond the studio, walk the nearby badlands, connect with the local textile community, and explore Santa Fe—just 35 minutes away.
- Snacks, Coffee, & Tea
Pricing
- One Guest
- USD $1155
- Additional guest(s) (max 4)
- USD $570
Meet the Artist
Lisa and Irvin are acclaimed master weavers with over 35 years of experience in the art of Chimayó weaving—a New Mexican tradition known for its bold stripes and central design motifs. Irvin, an eighth-generation weaver, began apprenticing under his father at the age of ten. He is a recipient of the National Endowment for the Arts’ National Heritage Fellowship—the United States’ highest honor in folk and traditional arts. After meeting in the 1980s through a shared artistic passion, Lisa and Irvin co-founded a weaving studio and gallery, solidifying both their creative and life partnership. Their work is an immersion of styles, history, and intricate techniques drawn from a centuries-old craft rooted in Mexican and Navajo origin stories.
Though grounded in tradition, Lisa and Irvin seek to push the boundaries of Chimayó and Rio Grande weaving to ensure its continued relevance. Each piece begins with the coarse, long and strong fibers of churro wool harvested from sheep raised by Irvin’s sister, which Lisa spins into yarn. She specializes in natural dyeing and complex patternwork inspired by Indigenous traditions. In her words, “The key to each design is lots of contrast so your work is not hidden.” Lisa’s work, celebrated for its intricacy and cultural resonance, reflects a deep reverence for ancestral knowledge. Irvin, by contrast, sees spontaneity as the crux of his approach—guided by curiosity, he explores modern forms while remaining rooted in tradition. His work is held in the collection of the Smithsonian American Art Museum, reflecting his role as both a preserver and innovator of American textile arts. Together, they honor their heritage while continually expanding the language of Chimayó and Rio Grande weaving.
Lisa and Irvin believe that teaching is as essential to weaving as the loom itself. They are eager to share Chimayó traditions with anyone drawn to the loom, regardless of background. It’s the rhythm of the process—learning the logic of looms, edges, and materials—that makes guiding others an exciting journey of technique and creative expression.
Though grounded in tradition, Lisa and Irvin seek to push the boundaries of Chimayó and Rio Grande weaving to ensure its continued relevance. Each piece begins with the coarse, long and strong fibers of churro wool harvested from sheep raised by Irvin’s sister, which Lisa spins into yarn. She specializes in natural dyeing and complex patternwork inspired by Indigenous traditions. In her words, “The key to each design is lots of contrast so your work is not hidden.” Lisa’s work, celebrated for its intricacy and cultural resonance, reflects a deep reverence for ancestral knowledge. Irvin, by contrast, sees spontaneity as the crux of his approach—guided by curiosity, he explores modern forms while remaining rooted in tradition. His work is held in the collection of the Smithsonian American Art Museum, reflecting his role as both a preserver and innovator of American textile arts. Together, they honor their heritage while continually expanding the language of Chimayó and Rio Grande weaving.
Lisa and Irvin believe that teaching is as essential to weaving as the loom itself. They are eager to share Chimayó traditions with anyone drawn to the loom, regardless of background. It’s the rhythm of the process—learning the logic of looms, edges, and materials—that makes guiding others an exciting journey of technique and creative expression.
VAWAA Includes:
- Immerse yourself in the centuries-old craft of Chimayó weaving.
- Learn the mindset, problem-solving techniques, and weaving methods needed to create Chimayó patterns.
- Create one or two weavings with a plain background, stripes, and a tapestry-woven center design. Advanced participants can experiment with different angles and design variations.
- Learn to spin yarns from Lisa and Irvin’s family sheep for an additional fee and prior notice.
- Visit local weaving shops to see traditional techniques in practice.
- Experience the beauty of the area by hiking local trails or walking on the ridge behind Lisa and Irvin's property, offering stunning views of the badlands stretching for miles to the north.
Explore Chimayo, New Mexico
Chimayó is a small village about 30 minutes north of Santa Fe, known for its deep spiritual and artistic traditions, and beautiful desert landscapes. Located in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Chimayó sits at the end of historic trade routes, where Native Pueblo communities and other groups have lived together for centuries. After Spanish settlers brought sheep to the region, weaving became an important tradition in the area. The town is famous for El Santuario de Chimayó, a historic pilgrimage site, and for its traditional weaving, with families passing down these skills for generations. With its adobe homes, red earth, and blend of Native, Spanish, and Mexican influences, Chimayó offers a soulful glimpse into the creative and spiritual heart of northern New Mexico.
Additional Details
Chimayo is a lovely place to visit year-round. Though Fall has the nicest weather, winters are mostly mild, spring can be windy, and summer rarely gets too hot. The area attracts visitors, but it remains peaceful for the most part, except on Good Friday when pilgrims gather at the Santuario de Chimayo. While there’s no need to avoid any particular season, it’s best to avoid driving around town on Good Friday, as the crowds make walking a more efficient way to get around.
This session is not available for longer durations.
Children at least 4’6” tall accompanied by a guardian, elders, and people with accessibility issues or special needs are welcome to participate. Chimayo weaving requires extended periods of standing while operating the loom. If standing is a barrier, special arrangements can be made to provide a sitting loom. Please add a note in your booking request.
Lisa speaks English, and Irvin speaks English and Spanish.
This session is not available for longer durations.
Children at least 4’6” tall accompanied by a guardian, elders, and people with accessibility issues or special needs are welcome to participate. Chimayo weaving requires extended periods of standing while operating the loom. If standing is a barrier, special arrangements can be made to provide a sitting loom. Please add a note in your booking request.
Lisa speaks English, and Irvin speaks English and Spanish.