Across the US: Local designers

TO MEET · 06/02/2013

Across the US: Local designers

In our travels across the US on the Warby Parker Class Trip, we’ve encountered incredibly creative individuals at every stop. These small business owners are crafting everything from finely-designed leather accessories to serious helium-swallowing balloons. In the area? Add these design studios to your itinerary.

Peg & Awl, Philadelphia:

Margeaux and Walter craft an array of wooden and leather goods, often using salvaged materials. Our favorite item of theirs? Their chalkboard tablet, perfect for our in-office to do lists and grocery lists at home.

Sideshow Sign Co., Nashville

You’ll spy one of the studio’s oversized, illuminated lettering by our display inside Imogene + Willie. Sideshow Sign Co. puts reclaimed wood and beat-up steel to good use—your new marquee sign (designed using vintage type) will look nicely aged.

Emil Erwin, Nashville

Emil’s supple leather bags are developed with some serious TLC. Every step of the process—from pattern-making to sewing— is handled in his studio. During our visit, we gave stitching a wallet a hearty go. Confirmed: it’s not as easy as it looks.

Otis James, Nashville

Who says ties are strictly for men? This craftsman has introduced a series of “lady ties,” which we’ve often spotted around musician Nikki Lane’s neck. Every item is made to order, hand-finished, and topped off with a handwritten cotton tag. (You can also customize the inscription if you like.)

Typewriter Boneyard, San Diego

Dipping into their ever-growing collection of thrifted books, Chelsea and Philip create the perfect bedside lamp. Their book lamps are hollowed out and wired within to easily sit on top of your existing stack.

Geronimo Balloons, Los Angeles

The grocery store mylar variety just got a serious upgrade. The oversized party accessories, accompanied by Jihan’s handmade “trill,” are guaranteed mood-changers and solid alternatives to a gifted bouquet of flowers.

The 2 Bandits Jewelry, San Francisco

Inspired by her mom’s 80’s “Texas glam,” Tamar designs jewelry that blends that element of glitz with earthy materials. Her rustic metal designs are accompanied by colorful stones, and they’ll fit in just fine at your next music festival.

Maak Soap Lab, Portland

With their natural handmade soaps, Taylor and Anoria hope to capture the scent of Portland. Their Beam & Anchor workspace is filled with a sweet, woodsy aroma from blends highlighting Port Orford Cedar, honey, eucalyptus and rose.