Set of 2 Embroidered Cotton Pouches from Armenia - Merlot Fields

Artisan Organization: Hasmik Margaryan

Country: Armenia

"My name is Hasmik Margaryan, and I was born in 1974 in Chinchin village of Shamshadin region. Ever since I was a child, I have had a passion for handicrafts. I used to observe my grandmother and mother making carpets, which sparked my interest. During my school days, I started embroidering and even wore clothes that I knitted and sewed.

"In 1992, I enrolled in the applied art department of YSU Ijevan branch. From 1996 to 1997, I worked as a design teacher at the school in our village. Pursuing professional education allowed me to delve deeper into the field of applied art and foster its development.

"I got married in 1998 and now live with my three daughters. Initially, I owned a thread shop and later opened a clothing repair shop. In 2016, I became a carpet weaving teacher and subsequently took on the role of overseeing the silk weaving course. In the same year a course was launched locally to revive the tradition of carpet weaving. After the project ended, I decided to begin making hats using the skills learned.

"My main objective is to revive traditional handicraft industries in the Tavush region and provide meaningful employment opportunities for local women. I specialize in producing carpets using the Shulal technique, which had been forgotten for over 100 years. This technique was once highly popular in the Tavush region, and I am now dedicated to restoring it while preserving the original colors and ornaments. To create the carpets I utilize a special tool called a tork.

"In addition to carpet weaving, I also specialize in old Armenian traditional Aintap embroidery with a contemporary design approach. Handmade embroidery is both my profession and my hobby. I cannot imagine myself in any other field; here I feel like a fish in water.""