In 1962, Doug Lay was selected by the Field Museum to join a mammal-collecting expedition to Iran. What began as zoological research eventually shaped the future of our family business. Over the next twenty years, Doug returned to Iran 18 times, traveling through every region of the country. Along the way, he developed a deep appreciation for the traditions of handmade rug weaving and began collecting rugs for himself.

Soon, friends began asking him to bring rugs back for them as well. Eventually, Nelda joined him on these trips, and together they decided to import a few additional pieces and rent a small corner in an antiques center—just to see what might happen. In 1976, Doug and Nelda officially opened their store, The Persian Carpet. What began as a small experiment quickly became a lifelong passion.

Over time, Doug’s deep knowledge of traditional weaving techniques, combined with his eye for color and design, led to the creation of eight original rug collections, beginning with the Arts & Crafts Collection in the 1990s. That same spirit of creativity and exploration inspired the launch of Southwest Looms in 2008.

Inspired by a love of the American Southwest, the company became the official licensee for Pendleton Woolen Mills, translating their iconic trade blanket designs into handmade rugs. The collections later expanded to include traditional tribal and Caucasian designs produced in northern Afghanistan. Today, these specialty collections are sold throughout the United States and internationally.

Doug and Nelda’s daughter, Cynthia Lay McLaren, has led Southwest Looms since its founding and now manages the entire company. More than sixty years after that first trip to Iran, the business is still guided by the same principles it was built on: family ownership, respect for traditional craftsmanship, and a commitment to creating distinctive, high-quality handmade rugs designed to last for generations.