Business Details
Handmade Carpets & Rugs in Knoxville, TN
AZ International is a family-owned rug business with three generations of expertise in handmade rug craftsmanship. Founded near the Amu Darya River in Central Asia during the late 1800s, our heritage traces back to trading Turkmen, Uzbek, and Karakalpak woven pieces along the Silk Road. We specialize in importing and curating rare, antique, and custom-made Afghan rugs, emphasizing traditional hand-weaving techniques and natural dyes. Our operations span from sheep breeds to final finishing, ensuring quality control across every stage of production. As stewards of Afghan cultural heritage, we collaborate with village weavers to create ethically sourced rugs that blend historical symbolism with modern design.Our Knoxville, Tennessee showroom offers a diverse inventory for wholesale and individual buyers, supported by professional services including rug repair, appraisal, and interior design consultancy. With decades of experience in humanitarian and reconstruction efforts, we combine business acumen with a commitment to sustaining Afghan artisan communities. Our dedication to transparency, quality, and cultural preservation has earned us global recognition among discerning rug enthusiasts.
Services
Rug Repair
Rug Cleaning
Appraisal Services
Interior Consultancy
Rug Rental
Custom Weaving
Antique Rugs
Wool Processing
Design Consultation
Export Services
Highlights and features
- We offer three generations of expertise in handmade rug craftsmanship
- Our rugs use natural dyes and hand-spun wool from Afghan heritage breeds
- We maintain full production control from sheep to finished product
- We support Afghan village weavers through ethical partnerships
- Our team includes certified rug appraisers and restoration specialists
What people say
Exquisite craftsmanship
Superior quality
Historical authenticity
Ethical sourcing
Knowledgeable service
Services
Rug Repair
Our expert artisans restore damaged rugs to their original beauty using traditional techniques. We specialize in repairing frayed edges, moth damage, and worn foundations while maintaining historical authenticity. Each restoration project receives meticulous attention to preserve the rug's cultural and monetary value.
Rug Cleaning
Professional rug cleaning services protect your investment through gentle yet effective methods. We employ dust removal, spot treatment, and pH-balanced washing techniques tailored to natural dyes and wool fibers. Our process removes embedded dirt without compromising the rug's structural integrity or color vibrancy.
Appraisal Services
Certified appraisers provide accurate market valuations for insurance, estate planning, or resale purposes. We assess factors including age, materials, weaving technique, and provenance to determine fair market value. Clients receive detailed documentation supporting their rug's worth for financial or legal purposes.
Interior Consultancy
Our design team helps integrate antique and modern rugs into residential or commercial spaces. We offer color matching, size recommendations, and placement guidance to enhance architectural features. Consultations focus on balancing aesthetic appeal with practical considerations like traffic patterns and maintenance requirements.
Custom Weaving
Commission bespoke rugs tailored to specific dimensions, colors, and patterns. Our weavers create custom pieces using traditional looms and natural materials. Clients work directly with artisans to develop unique designs that reflect personal taste while honoring Afghan weaving heritage.
People
Alex Zahir
President
Third-generation rug expert and founder of AZ International, Alex immigrated from Afghanistan in 1996. He combines deep industry knowledge with humanitarian experience, having worked with the UN World Food Program and USAID. His leadership maintains traditional craftsmanship while expanding global market access.
Questions
What makes Afghan rugs unique?
Afghan rugs feature distinctive tribal patterns and natural dyes derived from local plants and minerals. Our collection preserves centuries-old weaving techniques passed through generations of Afghan artisans.
How do you ensure rug quality?
We maintain direct relationships with weavers and oversee production from wool selection to final finishing. Each rug undergoes rigorous inspection before reaching our Knoxville showroom.
Do you offer international shipping?
Yes, we ship rugs worldwide using specialized packaging to ensure safe delivery. Shipping options and costs are provided during checkout.
Can I commission a custom rug?
Yes, we create custom rugs to your specifications. Work with our designers to select size, colors, and patterns that complement your space.
What rug care methods do you recommend?
We recommend professional cleaning every 3-5 years and immediate spot treatment for spills. Avoid direct sunlight to preserve natural dyes.
How do you support Afghan communities?
Our Afghan Rug Project provides sustainable employment to rural weavers, primarily women. We maintain fair trade practices and reinvest in community development initiatives.
