Skip to main content

The Manual may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site.

Kalish & Sons Echoes the Glory of American Manufacturing

kalish sons echoes the glory of american manufacturing  amp utilitarian bag
There was a time when America’s manufacturing sector was the envy of the world. Over the past several decades, however, many American companies have shifted production to nations where wages are a lot lower; so low, in fact, that it’s somehow cheaper to ship materials to and fro than it is to simply make everything here. You could say that America’s manufacturing sector was, ironically, dismantled in the drive for higher profits.

Though America may not be destined to relive its former manufacturing glory, there are still plenty of American craftsmen and manufacturers who are eager to show off their skills. Los Angeles-based sculptor and designer Michael Kalish spent the last two years finding these craftsmen and listening to their stories.

Related Videos

Related: Misen Knife Kickstarter Campaign

This collaborative cross-country adventure gave rise to Kalish & Sons, a brand of high-quality men’s essentials. Yesterday, Kalish & Sons launched a Kickstarter campaign featuring all-American handmade jackets, handmade bags, hand-thrown coffee mugs, and more. In just one day, Kalish & Sons has raised around $10,000 of their $50,000 goal. If they keep this up, the campaign will be funded by the end of the week.

jackets

The Kickstarter rewards include a waxed canvas duffel for $75 dollars off the projected retail price and a brown distressed chore jacket for $80 off the retail price. You can also get your hands on a mug for $20 or a Kalish print for $199. The first 300 jackets sold will be signed by Michael Kalish himself; that should earn a tidy sum for your grandchild 100 years from now, when he takes the jacket to Antiques Roadshow (or Antiques Spaceshow?).

These items don’t belong to the world of cheaply made, cheaply bought, and quickly broken products. Kalish & Sons is dedicated to constructing hardy items that accrue stories over a lifetime and beyond. If you don’t like the idea of exploitative overseas manufacturing, consider supporting companies like Kalish & Sons. As a consumer, you have more power than you realize.

Visit the the Kalish & Sons Kickstarter page for more information.

SIDE NOTE: Kalish & Sons is also in the midst of a giveaway, wherein one lucky winner will win a fully restored 1949 Dodge Pickup. Even if you don’t participate in the Kickstarter campaign, you would do well to add your name to the list of potential giveaway winners.

Hand-thrown coffee mug – $20 pledge

Hand-poured candle – $20 pledge

Brown distressed chore jacket or navy blue travel jacket – $145 pledge

Waxed canvas duffel bag, navy blue or powder gray – $150 pledge  

Art canvas print – $199 pledge

Expected delivery date is February 2016

Editors' Recommendations

Here’s The Best American-Made Menswear for the Fourth of July
best american-made menswear

Is there a better way to be patriotic for the 4th of July than breaking out the best American-made menswear? Not quite -- and we think the below shopping picks are as good a place to start as any. Hopefully, you’ll agree. You’re really getting two for the price of one -- that is, a stylish way to upgrade your daily ensemble, and the satisfaction of supporting your country with pride. From a sharp work-shirt to expertly faded denim and cool accessories, there are plenty of ways to go domestic when it comes to the best American-made menswear. Shop on.
Remo Tulliani “Bad Ass” Bourbon Belt $85

It can be a bit tough to find an American-made belt -- not so anymore with this rugged, wearable belt from Remo Tulliani. With textured touches, high-quality Horween leather and an investment-worthy price, it’s one belt you’ll have for decades to come.
Parker Dusseau Japanese Organic Linen-Cotton Work Shirt  $148

Read more
Curated Basics Helps Anybody Spruce Up Their Wardrobe
curated basics

When it comes to finding a proper way to give your tried-and-true wardrobe an overdue refresher, there's no better method of accomplishing this than adding an array of colorful and vibrant basics. Patterned socks, unique bow ties, and even subtle cufflinks have the ability to take an ordinary outfit and turn it into a stunner. While many clothing companies offer a diverse selection of lively basics, few businesses do it as well as the New York-based Curated Basics. Sold at two Artists and Fleas locations in Chelsea and Williamsburg, not only does Curated Basics put a modern spin on classic basics but its collection won't leave you penniless after upgrading your look. A clear win-win.
Founded in 2013 by the self-taught, first-time entrepreneur Andrew Cheung, the company embarked on its humble beginnings by offering just a simple line of men's socks. The same store who carries its product now — Artists and Fleas — took a flyer on the amateur company, allowing Cheung space to market his new line of socks. Much to his chagrin, the socks didn't do so well in their infancy.

"On our first day, we only sold one party pack (3 pairs of socks)," Cheung told The Manual.  "Those were some tough days but we owe our success to Artists and Fleas and their talented team that believes in our products."
The genesis of Curated Basics traces back to the introduction of slimmer pants which provided, what Andrew thinks, a golden opportunity to better display one's shoes. He instantly jumped at the opportunity to make the space between trouser and shoe essentially a canvas for him to work with. This idea alone pushed Cheung to quit his current job and find a manufacturer for what would soon become Curated Basics' high-quality sock line.

Read more
Support Clean Water with Made-to-Order Leather Goods from Mahi Leather
Mahi Leather

It's safe to say that most of us take clean water for granted.

If we take a shower, we expect clean water. If we take a sip from the water fountain, we expect clean water. If we go to the grocery store to buy bottled water, we expect it to be clean. For those around the world that are less fortunate, clean water is a luxury that isn't readily available.

Read more