Parla’s strength lies in the refined skills each craftsman brings: they are all vital cogs in the machine. Remove just one, and the rhythm of the entire production line is disrupted.
At the bustling Parla factory, we had the chance to chat with Bayram Usta, a true master of his trade and a vital cog of the machine. With decades of experience, his story as a finishing craftsman is a testament to dedication and passion.
Bayram Usta’s journey began in Istanbul in the early 2000s as he left his hometown, Bingöl, a city located in Eastern Turkiye. Arriving in the city with the hopes of landing any type of job, he started as an apprentice in a local workshop and learned everything from scratch.
He says, “I was new to Istanbul and didn’t know the ropes, but every challenge was an opportunity to learn.”
After completing his military service, Bayram Usta returned to the industry with the same level of ambition. Over the years, he worked with various companies, mastering both wood and metal finishes. By 2015, he had become a specialist in high-gloss varnishing, a technique that brings out the elegance of fine wood.
Throughout his career, Bayram Usta’s expertise took him beyond Turkey’s borders. He travelled to countries like Russia, for a Parla project in Sochi, and Azerbaijan, troubleshooting varnish and finish issues for international projects.
“Travelling and solving problems abroad was a unique experience” he says. “It broadened my perspective and refined my techniques.”
He then started working full-time for Parla in 2020. From the beginning, he stood out as a true leader, taking on the role of mixing impeccable artistry with precise craftsmanship. When asked how he would describe his work to someone who knows nothing about it, he reveals this: ‘It’s not just about applying varnish, it’s about understanding the material and how it behaves.’
One of the most fascinating aspects of his work is the testing process, which he proudly talks about. From hot water tests to cross-cut adhesion tests, Bayram Usta makes sure that each finish can withstand the test of time. He experiments with different types of varnish and evaluates their durability. Because of this, it’s common to see his “test run” samples both inside and around the factory, where he observes how they develop over time.
This goes to show that, even after years in the industry, Bayram Usta still remains committed to learning and experimentation. “Every day brings a new challenge, and that’s what keeps me motivated”, he says.
As Bayram Usta continues his journey at Parla with contentment, he remains focused on passing his knowledge to the next generation of craftsmen. “It’s important to share what you know and inspire others,” he adds.
With his wealth of experience and unwavering passion, Bayram Usta is not just a varnish expert but a mentor and an inspiration to everyone at Parla.
