Sara Morris of Mello Velo Bike Shop

Crafted in Carhartt is a blog that whole-heartedly supports women in the jobs that bring them joy fulfillment. It’s such a thrill to see ladies killing it in a male-dominated field. Unfortunately, gender bias in the workplace is still very real today. As Sara Morris, co-owner of Mello Velo Bike Shop and Cafe, says,



“People pretty much always assume I know nothing about bikes. Now with the cafe, people always assume that I run the cafe, and Steve runs the bike shop since we’re husband and wife, and because that’s what gender roles would dictate. In reality, we both do everything.

I never really experienced sexism until I opened up my own shop (which I guess is pretty good that it took that long, but sad also)! People don’t expect me to be able to carry a bike up the stairs, or lift it up into a rack or stand, or be able to do anything mechanical let alone ride a bike while wearing a skirt or heels (on the rare occasions I do). It used to really bother me, but now I’m just more comfortable being myself, and being confident in my knowledge, skills, and competency — I chalk it up to maturity and growing up. It’s nice that the guys I work with notice the sexist remarks I can get and always have my back.”

I like the idea that your own competency and confidence can triumph over others who, whether knowingly or not, try to make you feel small or less qualified. Five years into owning her own business, Sara has learned a great deal about herself and the trade. She gets to be creative in every aspect of her job and she wears many hats. From selling and fixing bikes, to baking and serving the locals delicious treats, to helping spread bike culture in the city of Syracuse as a healthy way of life and a booster to the environment— Sara gets to feel good and proud at the end of a long work day.

Sara’s advice for folks hoping to follow a similar path and open a bike shop:



“A lot of bike shops open with at least $200k start-up capital, and dig themselves into a hole right out of the gate. Also, they’re paying people because they don’t know how to fix bikes themselves. If you want to start small, make sure to do your research, and stay true to your instincts. Be prepared to do it all and work a lot when you’re getting started. You don’t have to be ‘old’ or independently wealthy to start a business, just be smart.”

Sara is wearing: 
Carhartt Women’s Force Performance T-Shirt, Clarksburg Quarter-Zip Sweatshirt, & Series 1889 Slim Double-Front Dungaree.

Welder Ryn Adkins

You might notice the stark difference between a high tea time set and the creative alternative cup and saucer Ryn Adkins is working on the photos above. Crossing mediums and taking a twist on depth of field, this dinnerware pair is an imaginative spin for table settings. As a designer and craftsman, Ryn came up with the concept, threw the teacups from clay, and welded the pyramid-shaped coaster.

Ryn is a co-founder of pop-up restaurant, Roux, where food and design have been blended into a whole new type of dining experience. In years to come, she hopes to further include the source of the food into the mix— putting food, farm, and craftsmen together in the venture.

In my conversation with Ryn, the pursuance of passion in life is a crucial building block in her plans. Find the field you want to be in and dig as deep as you possibly can. If you’re focusing on Industrial and Interactive Design, learn about the properties of metal, the ins-and-outs of woodworking, and get a feel for ceramics. When you love what you do, it not work— it’s a way of life. What do you love doing? How do you spend your free time?

Ryn took a step back and saw how she combined skills she’s loved since childhood. If you’re still searching for your own path, give your memories a chance to guide you.

“Reflecting on my childhood, I think I’ve always had an interest in design and food, from making bon appétit mud patties in my back yard to building lego duplexes in my bedroom.” —Ryn Adkins

Ryn is wearing: Carhartt Women’s Sandstone Active Jacket, Clarksburg Quarter-Zip Sweatshirt, Series 1889 Slim Double Front Pants, & Soft Hands Glove.

Ellen Suarez of Global Landscape in Syracuse

With all the yard makeover shows and reality TV programs portraying outdoor spaces magically transformed overnight, it’s easy to be fooled into thinking that landscaping is a quick and simple process. Don’t be misled, it’s a tough job. Ellen Suarez of Global Landscape in Syracuse, NY can attest to that first hand. She’s been in the business for 16 years.

If you’re the type that avoids working in a cubicle at all costs, this vocation may be right up your alley. You’re in for a fine dusting of dirt all over, saws buzzing the background, the smell of freshly cut grass, engulfed in the peacefulness of nature. Each day engaged hand in hand with the environment, you create a work of art that’s both practical and enticing.

Ellen’s advice to anyone hoping to break into the landscaping business is:



“Don’t take yourself too seriously! Enjoy every moment, even the tough ones. Drink lots of water and eat your veggies!”

Ellen’s wearing: Carhartt Women’s Amoret Vest, Belton Shirt, & 1889 Slim Double-Front Dungaree.

Janie Mills of Salt Works

In an effort to assuage the issues of high unemployment and enormous amounts of demolition waste in the area of Syracuse, New York; Janie Mills and the folks at Near Westside Initiative and Northside Urban Partnership united forces to create Salt Works. This amazing social enterprise pulls in members of the community and teaches them the tricks of the woodworking trade. Recycling materials that would typically be on course to becoming landfill, the carpenters at Salt Works create artisan furniture.

This mindful company lifts up members of the community and betters the planet through green production. The items they offer are impeccably designed and assembled. There is such a difference in furniture that is mass produced and furniture that is crafted with the utmost attention to detail. These are pieces that will endure a lifetime in your living space, filling up your home with good vibes and good design.

Take a look at Janie’s work wear: 125th Duck Apron, Sandstone Berkley Vest, Hamilton Flannel Shirt II, & 1889 Slim Double Front Dungarees

Carhartt in Syracuse

Syracuse, nicknamed the Salt City, due to the salty springs found along Onondaga Lake, has been a major crossroads between canals and railroads and home to many industries; from salt to automobiles and custom machining. Winter can be harsh, but natives handle it like pros just like they’ve mastered the brunt of a hard day on the job. Sturdy, purpose-filled, warm clothes are a necessity in these parts. That’s where Carhartt comes into play. I did some major shopping at the Syracuse store while I was in town. It’s a great spot. If you’re in the area, stop in.

Carhartt Women’s Packing Guide

When I pack for a trip, I make sure bring along things that can be used more than once. That goes for clothing and my other road trip hacks. I also take length of the trip into consideration. For a 3 day trip to a cold destination, I bring along 1 pair of pants, a shirt per day, 1 belt, a heavy outerwear piece, and a lighter sweater for layering. If I were planning on a 6 day trip, I would simply double everything but the belt and the heavy outerwear.

I usually pick out my pants first. It helps to choose a pair that goes with everything. Series 1889 Slim Double-Front Dungarees are my go to on a work trip. Then I pick out my heavy outerwear. It seemed fitting to bring along my Gallatin Jacket. It’s covered in pockets, which can be pretty useful when traveling.

Once you’ve decided on your base of pants and jacket, you’re set to mix and match the rest of your clothes. For my lighter outerwear, I went with a Clarksburg Quarter-Zip Sweater. It’s comfy, cozy, a great outerwear piece on warmer days. For shirts, I try to bring along very different styles so I won’t get bored with my options. I went with the Hayward Henley, the Minot Shirt, and the Hamilton Flannel Shirt II. The Logo Loop Belt is one of my favorites and I packed it all in my Legacy Gear Bag. That bag is the best. It’s big enough without being too big. You can fit everything you really need in it, but not enough that you’re unable to carry it easily.

Always aim to pack smart and light. You’ll be glad you did in the long run. Now I’m ready for to spend a few days in Syracuse. Here we go! Follow along in the next few weeks and see what I discovered in the great state of New York.

East West Tote

Get a load of my new favorite tote, built out of 600D Poly with Rain Defender® Durable Water Repellent. Whether you’re adventuring in the backwoods or setting about a hectic, rainy day; it’s rugged and great for tough weather. Water drops just bead right off and it’s big enough to pack up everything you’ll need.

Things to Consider About Your Food This Holiday Season

The Knapp family farm, Cobblestone Valley, has been passed down 4 generations. To preserve, conserve, and rebuild is the driving force behind this beautifully maintained estate in Preble, New York. The Knapps see it as their mission to treat land, animals, and people well.

This certified organic farm specializes in dairy. That in turn fuels the other enterprises that thrive there: such as poultry, beef, pork, strawberries, and compost. Maureen Knapp introduced me to their gang of turkeys. With the holidays right around the corner, it’s a good time of year to consider where your food comes from.

Local and organic products are the building blocks of a more sustainable food structure. To quote the mindful family, “In organic farming we use nature as our teacher and we believe that all health begins with the soil. As such our soils are our most precious resource. Healthy soils grow healthy plants, which produce healthy animals and, in turn, healthy people.” With all the feasting that happens with loved ones during this season, wouldn’t it be nice to spread the consideration that you are what you eat? Challenge your household to eat local and organic products this year, and support farmer owned organizations.

Maureen is wearing: Carhartt Women’s Clarksburg Quarter-Zip Sweatshirt, Cascade Jacket, & Relaxed-Fit Denim Jasper Jean.