Business Details
29 Years
experience
Handmade Zapotec Wool Rugs in Arizona
Mendez Carpets is a family-owned business rooted in the rich tradition of Zapotec weaving. Our journey began in Teotitlan del Valle, Oaxaca, Mexico, where Mel Mendez learned the art of rug weaving from his father at age 12. With over 24 years of experience, we have preserved our heritage by crafting 100% wool rugs using a two-foot pedal loom introduced to Zapotec weavers by the Spanish. Our commitment to quality and tradition continues in Arizona, where Mel, his wife Lucy, and their daughters blend ancestral techniques with modern craftsmanship.Each rug reflects our dedication to preserving cultural artistry while meeting contemporary needs. We specialize in custom designs, offering sizes ranging from small accents to large statement pieces. Our work has been showcased at festivals across Arizona, California, Utah, and Texas, connecting global audiences with authentic Zapotec artistry. By maintaining traditional methods and materials, we ensure every rug tells a story of heritage and skill. Our familys legacy drives our mission to share this timeless craft with the world.
Services
Handmade Wool Rugs
Custom Design Rugs
Zapotec Weaving
Table Runners
Pillow Cases
Hallway Runners
Large Area Rugs
Small Accent Rugs
Special Order Rugs
Festival Sales
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- Family tradition of Zapotec weaving spanning generations
- 24 years of expertise in handwoven wool rug craftsmanship
- Custom designs tailored to client specifications
- 100% natural wool materials for durability and quality
- Arizona-based operation with national festival presence
Services
Handmade Wool Rugs
Our handmade wool rugs combine traditional Zapotec weaving techniques with modern design sensibilities. Each piece is crafted on a two-foot pedal loom using 100% natural wool, ensuring durability and timeless beauty. Available in standard and custom sizes, these rugs serve as both functional home decor and cultural artifacts.
Custom Design Rugs
We specialize in creating custom-designed rugs tailored to client specifications. From intricate Zapotec patterns to contemporary motifs, our weavers adapt traditional techniques to produce unique pieces. Minimum size requirements apply for special orders, ensuring quality craftsmanship in every creation.
Zapotec Weaving
Our Zapotec weaving preserves centuries-old techniques introduced to Oaxacan artisans by Spanish colonizers. This heritage craft involves intricate loom work passed down through generations, resulting in rugs that showcase geometric patterns and symbolic motifs. Each piece embodies both historical significance and artistic mastery.
Festival Sales
We showcase our rugs at major art festivals across the southwestern United States. These events provide opportunities for direct customer engagement and exposure to our craftsmanship. Featured at venues like the Tempe Festival of the Arts and St. George Art Festival, we connect with audiences seeking authentic handmade goods.
Pillow Cases
Our pillow cases feature the same high-quality wool and intricate patterns as our larger rugs. These 20x20 inch accents allow customers to incorporate Zapotec artistry into smaller spaces. Each piece maintains traditional weaving standards while serving as versatile home decor.
People
Mel Mendez
Master Weaver
Mel Mendez learned Zapotec weaving at age 12 from his father in Teotitlan del Valle, Oaxaca. With 24 years of professional experience, he now operates in Arizona, preserving traditional techniques while adapting to modern markets. His work reflects generations of cultural heritage.
Lucy Mendez
Weaving Partner
Lucy Mendez actively participates in the weaving process, supporting Mel's craft while maintaining family traditions. Her contributions ensure consistent quality across all products and help sustain the business's artisanal approach to rug making.
Questions
What materials do you use in your rugs?
We use 100% natural wool sourced for its durability and quality. Our materials maintain traditional Zapotec weaving standards while meeting modern expectations for eco-friendly products.
Can I order a custom-designed rug?
Yes, we accept custom orders for rugs larger than 2.5x36 inches. Our weavers can adapt traditional patterns or create new designs to meet specific size and aesthetic requirements.
How long has your family been weaving rugs?
Mel Mendez learned weaving from his father in Oaxaca, continuing a family tradition spanning multiple generations. The business has operated professionally in Arizona for 24 years.
Do you sell smaller accent pieces?
Yes, we offer pillow cases (20x20 inches) and small rugs (24x40 inches) featuring the same quality craftsmanship as larger pieces. These items maintain traditional patterns in compact formats.
Where can I see your rugs in person?
Our rugs are showcased at major art festivals including Tempe Festival of the Arts (AZ), St. George Art Festival (UT), and Bayou City Art Festival (TX). Check our website for event schedules.
What weaving techniques do you use?
We employ traditional Zapotec methods using two-foot pedal looms introduced during Spanish colonization. This technique creates dense, durable weaves while preserving the geometric patterns and symbolic motifs of indigenous Oaxacan artistry.
