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We couldn’t believe it when we came across a handbag line created from used tires. Yup, tires.
Passchal has done just that with their innovative collection, which launched in 2004. Vegetable-tanned and by-product leather is fused with recycled tires to handcraft luxe options that are environmentally conscious. From a sleek
clutch for you party-hoppers to an understated
messenger bag for the stylish guys, there is something for everyone that promises great mileage – hehe! Count
90210’s
AnnaLynn McCord as a dedicated fan. We caught up with co-founder and designer Ken Kobrick to find out more...but come check it out for yourself at the
BagTrends Green Arm Candy Party!
BagTrends: With no formal training in design, why did you decide to foray into handbags?
Ken Kobrick: My partner [Angela Greene] had an interest in tractor inner tubes and it evolved into fashion bags after she saw a backpack made from inner tubes.
BT: Where did the name Passchal come from?
Ken: Angela’s sister’s name. Greene and Kobrick don’t really roll off the tongue!
BT: Passchal has collected and recycled over 20 tons of tractor inner tubes. What process do you go through to get the actual tires? Are you and your partner personally involved?
Ken: We go to various tire centers that repair tractor and large equipment to collect inner tubes before they are discarded to tire centers. We also receive them from tire centers in Ohio and Georgia that are shipped to us.
BT: When the line started, what were the challenges in turning something that is so raw into a piece of fashion?
Ken: Many! Since neither of us had any experience in making bags, we had to get a how to book. We had to learn about the basics of making a bag and how to sew.
BT: You used to be a welder. Has that background helped you in running a handbag company?
Ken: Yes, the equipment I use to make required precise measurements. The same is required in making a bag if you want both sides to be the same.
BT: What inspirations do you draw from?
Ken: To be honest I’m not sure. We just keep making bags, whatever comes to mind is what we do.
BT: Do you follow any seasonal trends? Colors, silhouettes, styles…
Ken: No, I’m sure we probably should!
BT: Do you have a favorite style or bag from the collection? What are the most popular styles?
Ken: My favorite is the messenger bag, which is one of our popular styles. Angela doesn’t carry a bag, but her favorite is the Pauline, which is named after my mother. The Pauline, Scrunch, Dad’s Case, NY Tote and Messenger are the most popular right now.
BT: Describe the ideal Passchal customer.
Ken: Someone that is looking for that little something extra.
BT: What is a priority for the collection?
Ken: To be stylist & functional. We want to create styles that are usable for a lifetime.
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