Nas was raised on a farm in the small community of Armstrong, British Columbia. Growing up, sewing was a part of family life but it was during her years working at Rapattack, as a forest firefighter, that she began sewing for industrial purposes; with an eye for aesthetics and a mind for design she began making gear prototypes.

After leaving Rapattack, to pursue contract helicopter hoisting and manual tree falling, Nas would continue to sew on her days off. Working on clothing and accessory design for herself and friends she also continued to sew specialized equipment for helicopter companies and gyms.

In 2018 Nas started an experimental collection of leather bags that resulted in the launch of Thistle Industries as we know it today. Although she spends most of her time now sewing and designing leather bags and accessories she still works in industry whenever possible.

Thistle Industries’ roots in industrial design and sewing underpin our core-values of functionality & durability.