Read about Narine's journey from discovering unique Brazilian bags made of pulltabs in a German shop to creating her own brand, Distinto in Armenia. It is a tale of creativity, perseverance, and a passion for turning the ordinary into the extraordinary.
Narine, How did it all start? What inspired you to start the brand Distinto?
I first saw similar bags in Germany. These bags weren't of German production; the idea originated in Brazil, where women collected tin tabs to make and sell bags as a means of livelihood. I encountered these bags in a German shop and loved them instantly. I always strive to create something useful from seemingly useless items. Additionally, I loved the idea that a percentage of the sales went to the women in Brazil who made these bags.
What does "Distinto" mean?
In Italian and Spanish, it means "distinct" or "differentiating." I wanted a name that conveyed uniqueness without using the word "unique." I wanted to show that these bags are for people who want to stand out.
Was it easy to find pull tabs in Armenia to start the production?
Not really. I approached bars and restaurants, asking them to save the tabs for me from multiple cans they have, but no one agreed. I started to get disappointed, thinking I would never realize this idea. Then, on my birthday, my husband surprised me by buying pull tabs online. That's how I began my first creations here. People who knew about my project also started collecting and bringing the tabs to me, appreciating the idea.
What about recycling points? Usually, in Europe at least, aluminum tins are recycled. Did you try to speak to those organizations to see if they could supply you with this material?
Yes, I talked to some organizations involved in recycling. But the quantity provided was extremely small and pulltabs were very dirty. I needed much more. If bars and restaurants would separate the tabs immediately before throwing away the tins, it would make a significant difference since we have so many bars and restaurants here. I even offered to pay for them, but they refused even then.
Did your creations become popular in Armenia?
Not really. Most of the orders come from expats living in Armenia or from abroad. I have given away many bags as presents because I prefer gifting them rather than selling them for a pittance.
Narine, can you describe a bit the process of production?
First, I wash the tabs several times using a special liquid that cleans them from stains and gives them a shine. After that, they need a day to dry. Then, I sort them: the best-looking tabs are used for accessories, the average ones for bags, and the less appealing ones are spray-painted. Next, I remove the tongues from the tabs and start foiling. I wear a special mask and glasses because foiling aluminum releases particles that you can inhale. Once the material is ready, I start crocheting.
How long does crocheting take?
It depends on the item. A small bag or a mobile case takes a few hours. If I'm not satisfied with something, I start over until I achieve the desired look.
Any special way to take care of these bags?
Not really, because they don't get dirty easily. For example, the bag I bought in Germany has served me for years without any problems. I use special threads from Greece that help the bags last longer. I always tell my clients that if anything happens to their bags, they can send them to me, and I will fix the problem.
Do you accept custom orders?
Yes, I do. Customers can request different sizes or shapes, but they usually choose from existing models and adjust some details.
What is the most difficult part of the process?
Preparing the tabs for crocheting is very time-consuming and routine.
Any support?
I tried to get financing to increase production and prepared business plans, but nothing came out of it.
Any future plans?
I'm not sure. I had ideas to turn it into a business, but I would need financial support for that. Some potential partners, after studying the market in Armenia, realized that this product wouldn't be popular here. Of course, I still want to expand, but for now, I am crocheting only occasionally.
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