Product Design Story:

A continuous theme through my whole life is exploring what looks good and how people use it. My perspective is that of a sculptor being asked to fulfill a need. I examine the problem, I come up with solutions, and I experiment! Some projects don't lead anywhere, but I learn something from the process. 

Materials tend to be the driving force in my work. They find a way to me, and I see what I can do with them. I will learn an entirely new craft to understand what can be done with the material. 

 

Project Highlights

Guitars

  • Client: Private Collections
  • Role: Design, Fabrication
    • HG Acoustic Guitar (Design/Build)
    • HG Electric Ukulele (Design/Build)
    • HG Electric Guitar (Design)
    • HG Lap Steel (Design)

Designing and making musical instruments has without a doubt been the most fulfilling and challenging endeavor I have undertaken. If I had 2 Million in the bank, this would be what I do. Upon reflection, some appeal is that these pieces have a life after me and become shared objects, supporting the creative process for others. 

 

Leatherworking

  • Client: Private Collections
  • Role: Design, Fabrication
    • Templates
    • Wallets/Bags
    • Custom stained panels

Makers make always. You adapt to your surroundings and keep creating. I found myself without a studio, and the only option was to set up a workshop in my apartment. I couldn't do more substantial woodwork or metalwork, but I did have a bunch of hides left to me by my grandfather that I carried around for years with no idea how to use them. Finally, I delved in with my designer hat on came up with a few goods.

  

Camera Focus Rings

  • Client: Private Collections
  • Role:  Design, Fabrication 
    • Fits Fuji x100 Cameras
    • Solid Brass
    • Various Patina and surface options
    • Exotic wood and leathers

I had needed help focusing on my new street camera the Fuji x100. So I ordered a machined brass tube and fabricated a lathe that would allow me to cut and finish these unique rings. I posted the results on a forum and had such a demand I went into small scale production. 50 were made and sold across the globe. 

LEGO Ninjago Arena

  • Client: Creatacor Inc., LEGO 
  • Role: Designer, Detailer
    • Ninjago Branded
    • Place your Mini-Figure on the rotating base
    • Use the handle to defeat your opponent

I will always have fond memories of this project. One of those perfect convergences of a team that just knock it out of the park. Also, it was just so much fun to test and debug. After design approval, 32 units were fabricated and sent on tour. And the child in me still very much wants one.