Marie learned to weave from both her mother, who died at a young age, and her grandmother. After the death of their mother, her sister Anna Mae Barber "adopted" Marie and her three younger sisters, Alice, Helen, and Sandy. With Anna Mae, Marie was instrumental in the establishment of Burnham as a new regional style. The family has a herd of about 20 crossbreed sheep that provide Marie with a fine, shorter-length wool that she prefers to weave with. Marie utilizes very finely spun yarn, and creates high quality weavings. She is an incredibly versatile weaver; creating classic Two Grey Hills designs, precise Teec Outline patterns, and finely worked Burnhams. Her textiles reflect both superior technical skill, as well as an innovative artistry that will have an impact on Navajo weaving for years to come. Marie's well-known daughter, Theresa Begay, is also making her mark on Navajo weaving.