Tafoya is known for her minimally-adorned blackware and black-on-black ware, frequently marked with the imprint of a bear claw motif.

[3] She has been referred to as "undoubtedly the outstanding Tewa potter of her time.

"[4] The Tafoya family lineage of Puebloan potters "goes as far back as records exist.

"[5] Tafoya's work consisted primarily of large-scale vessels that were marked with concave and convex impressions and carved designs.

[6] Many of her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and extended family became well-known potters including Margaret Tafoya, LuAnn Tafoya, Tammy Garcia, Nathan Youngblood and others.