Crownpoint Rug Auction
The Crownpoint Rug Weavers Association is a community-based organization made up of weavers, community-members and volunteers. They are dedicated to promoting and preserving Navajo weaving traditions and providing economic opportunity for weavers via monthly auctions.
Crownpoint Rug Auction
The monthly auction, held since 1968, connects weavers directly with buyers, attracting both individuals buying for their households or personal collections and international collectors. Unlike buying retail, bidders at the rug auction have the unique opportunity to purchase Navajo rugs directly from the weavers, at prices well below retail. Approximately 300 – 400 handmade Navajo rugs are put up for auction monthly. In this context, the word “rug” applies to a variety of woven textiles, from rugs to wall hangings to wraps. The Weaving Association has gotten the next generation involved as well, with younger weavers showcasing their work as well.
The absence of intermediaries allows weavers to garner more for their work and the payout is immediately after the auction. Weaver's pay 15% commission, so a $1000 sale nets the weaver $850. There is no buyer's premium.
The Auction
Prospective buyers can view the rugs between 4 PM – 5:30 PM, but there aren’t many available to view at 4. The weavers register their rugs as they arrive, with new rugs arriving up to the cutoff time, which is approximately 5:30. If you arrive by 5 PM, you will have ample time to stop by the food court, peruse the Native American vendors (pottery, jewelry, festishes, painting, sculpture, etc), and check out the available rugs prior to the auction.
During the viewing period, volunteers display rugs based on general size. Each rug is tagged with the weaver’s name, where they are from, and a serial number. Bidders can register at a table near the stage. Prices vary based on size and the quality of wool and craftsmanship. Some sell for $50 and others sell for thousands. Not all of the rugs sell, because some bids fall below the minimum.
Once a bidder has won a rug (or rugs) and no longer wishes to bid, they can cash out and collect their rug(s) immediately by turning in their bidding card and paying at a table set to the side of the state. The Weavers Association accepts travelers checks, personal checks, and cash. There is a 6% surcharge for using a credit card.
2025 Crownpoint Rug Auction Dates
January 3
February 7
March 7
April 4
May 2
June 6
July 4 (might change to the 11)
August 1
September 5
October 3
November 7
December 5
More Information
- Rug Auction takes place at the Crownpoint Elementary School in Crownpoint NM
- Weavers, rugs will be logged in starting at 4:00 p.m.
- Buyers viewing of rugs from 4:00 to 5:30 p.m.
- The auction begins at 6.
- Buyers can pay for rugs with cash, credit cards, travelers check, or by personal check. A 6% surcharge to credit card purchases
Directions: Crownpoint is located about 30 minutes north of I-40 (Thoreau exit #53) on state highway 371. Turn west at the sign for Crownpoint. It is a small community, with few amenities. The closest available lodging is in Gallup, Grants, or Farmington.
For additional details, contact Marcella Hale at (505) 362-8502 or email mmhale@hotmail.com.
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