My name is Clayton Harkey (BBA ’13), co-owner and CEO of Twisted Arrow Goods, where we sell handcrafted lifestyle goods made in Texas.
I started this company because of a strong desire to keep alive trades I believe are dying that my father, and his father, and his father before him participated in. What started out as just a way to relax in the evening after a long 8-to-5 quickly became a passion that I wanted to pursue full time.
Transitioning from a corporate role after graduating Bauer to starting my own business was quite an adventure. It has really allowed me to hone my skills and talents developed in school at Bauer and “Corporate America” and marry them to my hobbies and passions. It helps me ensure I can make money, but also know within me that the money I make is from honest-to-goodness hard work and perseverance. There is almost no better feeling than being able to use all parts of your brain every day while keeping family tradition alive, providing quality goods, and building great relationships with customers and fellow small business owners.
Here, I recommend a few items from Twisted Arrow Goods that would make all fathers proud this Father’s Day!
The Quinton Vertical Bi-Fold Wallet – $60.00
Whether your dad is a minimalist or likes to carry his whole life in his back pocket, the Quinton is a great wallet for both personalities. Featuring four card slots (which you can easily double or triple up on) and two larger pockets to hold cash, receipts, or business cards, etc. made from 100% vegetable tanned leather, this wallet will patina and age well over time as well as last a lifetime. Hand cut and stitched in Houston, Texas.
The Sherwood Dopp Kit – $82.00
Does Dad travel a lot? This handmade, bison leather toiletry bag makes keeping and finding all your essentials easy as well as looking good in the process. It’s super soft to ensure it doesn’t mess up anything else you’re carrying with you and also allows it to fit in tight spaces. Hand cut and stitched in Houston, Texas.
Leather Belt Workshop – $75.00
If you live in the area, and you know your dad is a hands-on type of guy, then come hang out with us and learn how to make your own leather belt! The class is June 13 at 6 p.m. at Forth & Nomad (731 Yale St). There will be music and goodies to eat, as well as cocktails and beer, the essentials of leather craft!
Heck of a Deal Body Wash – $25.00
Guys like to keep things simple. That’s why we rolled this all natural, castile soap-based hair and body wash into one. A little dab will do ya, so it goes a long way. It can also be used to wash many other things, such as clothes, dishes, vehicles, etc. All-natural ingredients keep the capabilities of this soap never-ending, which we believe is one heck of a deal!