An Interview with Draplin Design Co.
Posted: Nov 21, 2007
Check out this wonderful interview with one of my design heroes – Aaron Draplin of Portland’s own Draplin Design Co.
This quote on the extra trinkets he throws in with merch orders is what, for me at least, sealed the deal on his status as a true gentleman:
There was a time when you’d buy a tractor in the Midwest, and leave with a hat, memo book and a couple pencils. This little transaction served a number of purposes. First, and most importantly, the farmer could use these things in his day-to-day life. Second, the proprietor’s name was out in the world that much more. Third, the gesture of a couple freebies to “seal the deal” is a time-honored tradition that is being phased out by stricter and stricter marketing budgets. The simplicity of these often-overlooked items and gesture is something that is very endearing to me.
I just bought a hat from Aaron, and in the package was a couple of Field Notes books (which are absolutely beautiful, by the way), some little DDC cards, some pencils, a pencil sharpener and a wooden ruler. Made my day.
Via SwissMiss.
