Edison MFG Co. - 'Handcrafted goods. One of a kind, made one at a time.'
Our good friend Dave McKinney of Edison MFG Co. is one of the finalists in Martha Stewart's American Made contest. Edison MFG Co. is a true example of what American Made stands for - local, unique and handmade! Head over to marthstewart.com to help Dave take first place in this contest supporting the maker, every vote counts!
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American Made spotlights the maker, supports the local, and celebrates the handmade. The program is made up of people and communities that have turned their passion for quality craftsmanship and well-designed goods into a way of life.
This is where you will meet, learn from, and be inspired by fellow makers from around the country. Welcome.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS.
I am a one man operation fueled by passion. My goal is to offer quality, well built products. Products that are built to last and will only get with time. I started Edison MFG Co. in 2010 after suffering a layoff from the Clothing company where I was employed. I had worked as a clothing designer and director for over 10 years. So to suddenly be without work was shocking. I regrouped and decided to try and forge my own path. Hoping that in this endeavor I would find solace as well as security. So I began to teach myself the art of crafting leather, hand sewing and the use of industrial sewing machines. After a long journey I've just recently been able to move from my small 200sq. ft. studio behind my house and in to my first brick and mortar. I now run a small retail store in the front while using the remaining space as a workshop to build my products. I feel very blessed and thankful for the support of the American Handcrafted movement. Passion before profit.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR WORKSPACE, SHOP, OR STUDIO.
After a long journey I've just recently been able to move from my small 200sq. ft. studio behind my house and in to my first brick and mortar. I now run a small retail store in the front while using the remaining space as a workshop to build my products. Through this shop I service both my wholesale accounts as well as my retail customers. One unique aspects about my workshop is that customers can actually watch me work. I feel that this gives them a personal attachment and insight in to what I do. I am also now beginning to offer workshops to get the community excited about crafting.
WHAT INSPIRES YOU?
I am inspired by many things in my life. My amazing family and friends, the love of craft, the desire to offer a American Made product, etc. I will always believe in my heart that passion is more important than profit.
WHAT MAKES YOUR BUSINESS STAND OUT?
We offer our customer a source for American Made goods crafted with precision and pride. Each of our pieces is hand dyed, polished, hand sewn and finished. Edison focuses on slim, streamlined products for everyday solutions. Built to last. http://shop.edisonmfgco.com/the-workshop.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE AN ASPIRING CREATIVE ENTREPRENEUR?
Follow your heart and do what you love. The money and acclaim will come to those who work hard and are passionate about what they do. My grandfather always told me, "Find what you love to do, and do that for a living."
WHAT DOES AMERICAN MADE MEAN TO YOU?
The chance to offer my fellow Americans an alternative to the typical overseas sourced products. It means we are careful and deliberate where we spend our money. It means supporting your local community as well as the nation as a whole. We must take pride in our country and strive to return to the days that " made in America" meant quality.
