Authentic Zapotec Handwoven Accent Rug (2 x 3.5), "Vibrant Horizon"

“We began working with NOVICA ten years ago, primarily in order to increase our income. Maintaining the quality standards that NOVICA specified was a challenge, since we initially focused on creating simple textiles quickly.

“At the start, improving our quality was a challenge. But, we managed to do it with our best ally. Today, we are more disciplined; our focus is on creating durable and beautiful pieces.

“We managed to increase the size of our team, which helps us craft each quality piece in a timely manner. Before, we worked with three looms. Today, we use seven looms to create the variety of pieces. I now work alongside five artisans who support me through busy times.

“I want each person who wants to learn this beautiful art to be able to learn it properly. Because of this, I train them myself. Logically, this helps us with the crafting process in the long run.

“NOVICA has helped us create a large selection of many different items, giving us the motivation to continue creating colorful and quality pieces. I want to increase my sales so that people in more countries can know my work. Today, my focus is on creating more colorful and useful pieces for my clients.”

Original Artisan Story

"Hola, I'm Alfredo Ruiz Ruiz. I was born in 1989 in a small Oaxaca town where I grew up together with my brothers and sisters. We spent our childhood playing and learning the handicrafts that my parents have practiced all their lives. From the time I was a boy, I wanted to weave the beautiful rugs my family crafted. When I was 12, I created my first rug in 100% wool. I still have it in my bedroom to look at it every day and motivate myself to continue doing good work.

"From that moment on, I haven't stopped doing what I love. I finished junior high school, and now I have my own workshop. I believe the art of weaving Zapotec rugs is unique. My inspiration comes from everything I see around me – the landscapes, nature, people and animals.

"Now my greatest challenge will be to weave more complex designs of excellent quality each day for you. I invite you to choose my rugs – I know you're going to love my pretty designs."