Gumption Design Co.

Not every project is a creative bench press.

But every now and then, you get a real gem that asks for extra patience, research, and more than just one sketchbook pages.

Working with David of Kinzan Forge, the process leaned heavily into studying, reading, and learning. We looked at Japanese visual traditions, historic swordsmithing symbolism, and Samurai crests. We didn't want an exact replica, but we were looking for patterns, visual cues, and materials that were used to get inspiration and direction. We wanted to build a brand story that honored David’s years of study in Japan and his commitment to the traditional swordsmithing techniques he learned.

We started with broad moodboards to explore tone, forms, and how they worked together with the typography. Then, from there, we moved into hand sketches and digital explorations. The sketches help test directions, settle on a level of complexity, and stress-test what would actually work in the real world. (Swipe to see the first sketch from my notebook to see how far it came and developed over time.)

The final system centers around an illustrative mark that David fell in love with, supported by a set of simpler symbols and elements designed to scale easily to business cards, shirts, signage, and convention use without losing clarity or intent.

This project was a reminder that good design isn’t about shortcuts. It’s about slowing down, learning the context, and building something honest from the ground up, just like David's crafting practice. Check out his site to see his amazing work: https://kinzanforge.com/

I couldn't be more thankful for 2025. Thankful for fantastic clients, exciting work to be done, and projects to push pixels for. Looking forward to creating more pizzazz in 2026. Need some pizzaz in 2026? Let's talk.

Relive your school bus days in style.

Who’s ready to hop back on the ‘people’s chariot’? 🚍 This new merch is for all the public transit lovers out there: efficiency, nostalgia, and wings to fly! If you're commuting, reminiscing, or just supporting the cause.

Grab your gear now and show your ride pride.

One of my favorite parts growing up was handling my grandfathers tools. I was gifted a box of wrenches and screwdrivers that I use to this day. They were filled with a special kind of black magic and mystique. I feel the same way every time I pick up a paint brush or roller knowing he had been there a million times and I was just participating in the trade of making a more beautiful world.

Thats what Lancaster Workshop & Tool Library is about not just lending drills and saws, but sharing access, skill, and confidence.

A place where neighbors can build something real without needing to own everything to start, and have access to a community that helps them learn and develop themselves to meet their repair challenges.

So as part of the brand exploration we talked about tools, and how they are used and what they might represent to us and the brand. I think Pup pup would’ve like to see his wrench on that table.

If you haven’t been by, check it out this weekend at their open house on Sunday November 2, 10-1 pm at 433 Ice Avenue Lancaster United States.

Coming soon you’ll be able to borrow a tool, fix something, build something, and teach or learn how.

Exploring the brand for , a new tool share and skill-building space dreamed up by Emily Fritz. It’s all about helping neighbors get their hands on the tools and the know-how, especially when it comes to fixing up our older, historic homes. From shared resources to hands-on classes, SHAW is about community resilience, DIY spirit, and taking care of the places we call home. Stay tuned for more details in the coming weeks!

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✨ 2025 is flying by & we’re almost halfway through! ✨

Got a branding or website project that could use a little extra spark? 🔥

Or maybe you’re looking for some creative mentorship to level up your marketing game? 🚀

I’d love to connect! Whether you’re dreaming up a new brand, refreshing your site, or just need a guide through the creative wilds, I’m here for it. ⚡️

👉 Let’s make the second half of 2025 full of impact, creativity, and bold ideas.

DM me or reach out, let’s get something cooking! 🖥️✏️🌿

2024 Recap Vibes: More coffee, more designs, more nights under the stars. Let’s cue up a new track for 2025: Bigger, Brighter, Bolder.

Thanks for vibing with us this year, friends. Gumption wouldn’t groove without you.

Looking forward to 2025? If you need help with branding, websites, or marketing, let’s connect! Reach out today—we’re ready to make something amazing together.