Sep 4, 2012

Made In America: MIXT Studio Makes Good on Local Goods

Most of us have heard of the local foods movement, but what about local goods? Marcie Carson, founder of MIXT Studio, is striving for just that.

“It’s about taking ‘Made in America’ a step further,” says Carson, who often roller skates to her Hermosa Beach, California studio.

MIXT was founded this year by Carson, who was looking to reinvent herself after almost 20 years as a founding partner of the award-winning graphic design firm IE Design + Communications (who has a roster of clients that include the Academy Awards, Mattel, Getty, Dole and Hilton to name a few). Carson’s objective with MIXT was to create “an eco-eclectic line of paper and gift goods that focuses on lifestyle as much as it does artistry.” As a result, Carson immediately committed to producing MIXT products in the U.S., despite encountering a few hurdles to do so.

Printing gift wrap, for example, was far less expensive and easier to source overseas. Likewise for the brand’s best selling item, a reusable wine bag. But all MIXT products tout “Please follow our commitment to a clear conscience and good karma,” so they kept the manufacturing in America and began nurturing new relationships with local vendors and suppliers.

Carson started by placing a sizable investment in eco-solvent printing equipment so that the company could begin manufacturing within their own workspace (that they share with her graphic design firm). MIXT Studio now does most of their printing and fulfillment from IE’s 3,000 square foot historic building on Pacific Coast Highway — former home to surfing legend Hap Jacobs. MIXT also sources most of their materials locally from Southern California companies in addition to employing local art students to help with all production and shipping. “I can walk four blocks to our silkscreener,” notes Carson, although she does drive (an electric car) 15 miles to a garment maker in Los Angeles to collaborate on all MIXT sewn goods.

To Carson, the benefit of keeping the line in her own backyard was clear: greater control of the product and the creative process, more flexibility, easier communication and an unwavering focus on quality — quality that extends beyond mere manufacturing. “Quality people, quality of life,” she says in her flip-flops and sundress, “that’s what really matters to me now.” For more details, see the MIXT Studio eCatalog: http://www.mixtstudio.com/eCatalog/