Some of our favorite collaborations happen right in our own backyard. (Creative Legion) is a multi-use members club for creatives and event space right here in Hudson, NY — a home for artists, makers, and entrepreneurs who believe in building something together. When they came to us looking to create a custom branded accessory, it felt like a natural fit: two Hudson Valley creatives, both rooted in art, community, and doing things the right way.
The result was a run of custom pencil cases that are equal parts functional and bold. Creative Legion took one of our existing shapes and made it entirely their own — sourcing a beautiful Japanese denim and finishing each case with their signature bright orange label. It’s a small object that says a lot about who they are. We’re proud to have made it.
We asked Melissa Hougland, Partner & COO of (Creative Legion), to tell us about the project in her own words.
(Creative Legion) is all about fostering a community of makers, artists, and entrepreneurs. How does that mission show up in the physical objects and branded goods you create?
The brief around any physical object we bring in and offer to our members as a gift or to purchase represents a tool to unlock creativity. It can be something nostalgic. Something practical. Or just something that takes you out of the ordinary to make something extraordinary.
What made you decide to create a custom accessory, and why a pencil case?
From artists who draw to writers who write, pencils are that analogue utility tool. Having something beautiful for pencils to be stored in was key.
You chose denim for this project — what drew you to that fabric? What did you want it to say about the (Creative Legion) brand?
Denim can be casual. Denim can be dressy. It can be upstate or downstate. It can be new, it can be vintage. We made denim a key ingredient in our uniforms so it felt right to make it part of our first gift to our members.
Tell us about the orange label. How did that detail come together, and what does it mean to the overall design?
Orange is one of our key brand colors. We wanted a label that commemorated the time in which we established ourselves as a collective in the community. It turned out so good I almost cried. It was designed by our key design partner (and former colleague at Facebook) @oldfriend. We plan on using more custom items.
What was it like working with the Made X Hudson team on a made-to-order production run? Walk us through the process from your perspective.
Working with the Made X Hudson team was a joy. Eric’s process was quick and our creative meetings with Sergio and team were thorough and creatively thrilling. I left each of our meetings excited and ready to make the next thing!
What does it mean to you to have a product that’s locally made — right here in the Hudson Valley?
It means everything to us to have a product that is locally made. The Hudson Valley is full of locally minded but globally ambitious people. We want our members and even non-members to have an item that represents that.
How are the pencil cases being used or distributed? Are they available to members, sold in your space, or used as gifts?
The pencil cases were part of our one-year anniversary gift box to our members. They are also going to be given to new members in a different welcome box.
Would you consider collaborating with Made X Hudson again? What other products or ideas are you dreaming about?
Absolutely! Maybe a jacket!? Or tote!? Sergio and I riffed on so much in our sessions.
— Melissa Hougland, Partner & COO, (Creative Legion)
Have a branded piece in mind? From pencil cases and totes to uniforms and gifts, our Catskill, NY atelier develops patterns and samples for local businesses and independent brands. Learn more about sample development or book a consult with our team.