Jacob Vaughn is an artist/designer living in San Francisco who runs a small, independently owned screen-printing and leather-working business. His business, Project TransAction, strives to work with the most socially responsible companies available, with the intention of creating affordable, thought provoking goods that people can feel confident investing in. The politics of small, local, and independent business are intrinsic to TransAction’s mission. His shop uses earth-friendly, bio-degradable cleaners and 90% of the leather used is recycled or from scrap.
Darlings: When and how did you first start your business?
Jacob: Project TransAction (PT ) was born in August 2006 as an art/life project dealing with independent business and bartering. To me it’s more than a business, it’s ongoing artwork and study of how indie businesses work in the current time and economy. My artistic nature doesn’t lend itself to working for other people, and I felt like I was giving up too much of myself at other jobs. To make my life more fulfilling, I started Project TransAction.
Darlings: How did you learn your craft, specifically leather-working?
Jacob: The leather-working aspect of PT came about when I was flipping baseball gloves on e-bay to supplement my income. I started deconstructing them to make dog collars, and became very interested in the challenge of properly manufacturing leather goods. I find this type of work very relaxing (and the hammering is a major stress reliever!) and decided to combine it with screen-printing to create exciting, unique items that only get better with time.
Darlings: What influences your work?
Jacob: Film, public transportation, pop culture, other artists, vintage advertisements, science, documentaries, things I read, love.
Darlings: What is the hardest part about being in business for yourself?
Jacob: Not having a consistent paycheck. If I don’t work, I don’t eat. Also, the lack of human contact can get to me at times. It’s a very solitary and demanding job, but I wouldn’t change it for anything!
Darlings: What is your favorite music to be playing while you are in production?
Jacob: Aesop Rock, Mos Def, RJD2, Tracy + the Plastics…anything with a good beat. I tend to shake it a lot when I’m by myself in the shop.
Darlings: Do you have any events that you are getting ready for in the near future?
Jacob: Indeed! Project TransAction will be vending at the next Mission Indie Mart (@ the Independent in SF 4/26/09), Brooklyn Indie Market (@ Carroll Gardens, NYC 4/26/09), IndieSacramento (@ Fremont Park 5/2/09) San Mateo Makers Faire (San Mateo Fairgrounds in conjunction with Bazaar Bizarre 5/30 + 5/31), as well as a handful of other upcoming events. Support local artists and businesses!
