Backpage Press is a one man, independently owned and operated, design and screen printing shop dedicated to hand printing it’s own custom designs on quality clothing.
Backpage Press started with one design, one $200 press, and $150 in t-shirts and supplies. The store went live on December 27, 2007.
Being a fan and participant of street art and street wear, I realized many or my peers' ventures had unique themes and characters. There were also a ton of brands targeting specific sports and city fan bases. While I loved their approaches and work, I had design ideas spanning a wide variety of interests. I didn't want to limit my possibilities. And since I always tend to go against the grain and ignore conformity, I decided to make my clothing brand personal. Real personal.
Artistic freedom, not having a specific market, and only focusing on subjects I was passionate about were core ideals. If you’re not into the subject, the piece will suffer. Your art should look like you mean it.
Since many of the designs would be so personal, I knew writing would also be important. I needed to explain how and why the design was conceived, giving customers an intimate glimpse into the meaning of each piece. Once people understand a shirt's significance, hopefully they'll feel more comfortable wearing it, sharing in the design's personal story.
To continue the unorthodox business approach, I decided all designs would be hand-printed in-house rather than shopped to outside screen printing shops. The creation of an all-encompassing print and design art studio has resulted in complete freedom and unprecedented control over the final product. Since Backpage Press is a DIY shop, the setup and lack of middle-man costs has enabled me to print anything that lives inside my head.
Being a fan and former employee of punk rock, I wanted to incorporate the simplicity of the music genre's monotone t-shirt designs and logos into the work at Backpage Press. I’ve kept the designs sleek, simple, mature, and wearable, unlike some sports and mainstream music shirts that would be best worn by 12 year olds.
I take great pride in my independence. From the early inception of a design in my mind to the final packaging and postage, it’s all been one guy. But without building a strong foundation of supporters, there are no packages to send. That’s why I’ve always felt if you're a customer, you're part of this. Owned and operated by one guy, but run by thousands.
These values have been, and will hopefully continue to be, fundamental to the brand's appeal and popularity.
Clothing/Posters/Prints
