Press

Russell Stinnett

See what people are saying about Psychlist: Subversive Cycling. Zlog Blog: <a href="http://www.zlogblog.com/2009/10/psychlist-dime-bag.html">Psychlist Dime Bag!</a> <img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_D_gA1kMwT6o/SuISFUxh8sI/AAAAAAAADX4/a7BSgR-kd2A/s400/IMG_8156.JPG"> I have collected various hip pouches and bags throughout the last couple years and this one has been the most practical by far. This Austin, Texas made pouch, straps onto a belt, can hold a U-lock, and has 3 different compartments for all your organizational desires. It is fairly flat & isn’t as bulky as some other fanny-pack inspired designs. The Dime Bag is versatile, I personally have been using it as a tool/tube bag that I can throw in my backpack or strap onto my belt if I need to rush out the door. The quality is on par with a Re-Load or Freight bags. I am very happy with it and suggest you pick one up (only $40) Thanks Zach! Thrillist <a href="http://www.thrillist.com/austin/psychlist-subversive-cycling">Psychlist: Subversive Cycling</a> <img src="http://images.thrillist.com/files/images/pieces/99946/img_0056-medium_MAP.jpg"> Like pitching and playing running back, the ability to pedicab at the highest level can go suddenly — maybe you can still the bring the fatties to Whataburger, but your ability to bring them back from Whataburger’s a thing of the past. Setting up for pedi-tirement, the churning thighs behind Psychlist: Subversive Cycling. PSC’s a complete line of thoughtfully functional bags each built tough enough to withstand the rigors of the road (traveling down it, falling on it); the biz was started up by a veteran pedicabber named Russell S in order to still pay rent until Hollywood creates a “Nordberg”-type role for all-star people-movers. Lined with waterproof vinyl polyester coating, the heavy-duty Cordura numbers are available in 20+ colors (from woodland camo to purple) and four sizes, each named after a quantity of illicit materials: the wallet sized “Nickel” has space for your phone and cards, the hip-hanging “Dime” is built for a U-lock, the “Quarter” comes with laptop friendly detachable pockets, and the monstrous “Que Pee” has 2560 cubic inches of space; each model also comes with a hidden stash pocket, saving the cops a little reward for after they put your QP into evidence. Rounding out your lifestyle are color-customizable super-soft T’s emblazoned with simple bike drawings and slogans ranging from the militant (“This is my weapon”), to the conversation-starting (“I rode my bike here”), to the conversation-ending (“I only ride a bike to compensate for my huge penis”). PSC also deals in made-to-order jeans with reinforced pockets and crotch, a selection of short-brimmed biker caps, and upper-frame pads for protecting the jewels — because when those go suddenly, all the thigh-churning in the world won’t keep you in the game. </notextile> Kind of a crazy article, but that’s cool. While it’s true that I’m a veteran pedicabber, “hero” might be pushing it. :) Dropout Interview <a href="http://dropoutzine.com/read.html">Read the Dropout</a> Psychlist Interview: Russell Stinnett The first time I encountered Russell was at a mutual friend’s wedding and the first thing I thought was, ‘wow…cool pants!’ I think that it is safe to assume that many people have had similar experiences when meeting Russell. The article of admiration is easily transferable though, as in, ‘wow…cool ____ (insert pants/hat/bag/shirt).’ I wasn’t aware at the time that this was the man behind the skull and gear logo that represents his Psychlist: Subversive Cycling line I’d seen so often around town. In retrospect though, it would have made perfect sense. His unique approach to dress; of function coupled with style, transcends his own personal wardrobe and into his product line, which is great news for the rest of us. His clothing line stands out in the bike community here in Austin, as he is contributing in a totally new and unique way; offering cycling gear, hats, and clothing, which are not only functional and urban rider friendly, but also strikingly stylish. Which in a world of brightly colored and unforgiving spandex is necessary and thoroughly appreciated. Upon arriving at his studio in East Austin I was promptly offered a parfait. It appears that amongst the print screens, fabric piles, sewing machine, half completed hats and bags, and various bike parts, Russell has set up enough of a kitchen to prepare an artful raw vegan dessert complete with mint sprig. I was duly impressed. Russell is as extraordinary as his product line and we are grateful to have him be a part of out first issue. So read on and then go buy yourself a hat. What are the three most important things a complete stranger should know about you? Lets see, my sense of humor is sort of off color so don’t get offended, I don’t care about sports or politics so don’t bother bringing it up. Ummm, I don’t know…I like food. How did you first get involved in the cycling community here in Austin? My sister bought me a road bike to commute to work. I began riding to work and remember having to stop the first time and take a break. I started riding more and more and began pedicabbing and just really immersed myself in the culture. Once I learned more, I began building bikes and was working as the mechanic for the pedicab company. This was also the same time I turned my back on the tech industry. I had spent a decade working in that field and just had had enough. I just walked away from it. For those of us who are not yet familiar with your company, describe what Psychlist: Subversive Cycling is and how it got started. I design apparel and accessories for urban cyclists. How it got started? Well that depends on how far you want to go back I guess. I have been making and modifying my own clothes since I was in jr. high. When I started cycling and getting involved in the bike culture I immediately found respect for the DIY ideology that drives that whole sub culture. So I started doing it myself, figuring out how to make bags and pants and hats and make them work for people who ride. Did you start by making the clothes for yourself? All of the stuff that I make is stuff that I want for myself, but maybe couldn’t afford, or it wasn’t readily available, or saw a design I liked and was inspired to create something new, something more my own. Did you find a strong demand for these types of products when you first started? There was a lot of opportunity for bike-centric clothing as urban cycling became more and more popular. Things like the tapered pant leg and the messenger bag begin as a functional design and style and then turn into a trend that even people who are not avid bikers want to wear. It is a market that has grown so rapidly and a culture that is so cool that I had to get in on it. I mainly cater to cyclists with this particular line but I am developing another line of clothing inspired by my early years of hanging out in goth clubs and punk dives called Deep Down. It is great to see a local brand of gear and clothing that so many Austin cyclists are into. It is funny going on rides and parties and looking around, thinking hey I made that hat, and that bag. It’s really cool that it is catching on. It’s cool to see a complete stranger wearing a shirt that I made. Austin is really supportive of local manufactures, which is great. It is interesting to see how businesses such as yours developed and changed from it’s initial concept. Well the original concept was very very loosely defined. It developed out of two interests that I had at the same time, biking and design, so it was a natural progression. But the concept of the line started to solidify when I started pedicabbing. It kind of felt like I was this urban soldier. That is where the militant idea that you can see in some of the earlier shirts came from. Like “this is my weapon” and “the revolution will not be motorized”. It felt like as cyclists we were the urban soldiers of the streets. Your line merges elements of function and style. What are your priorities in developing the Psychlist line further and solidifying the uniqueness of the brand? I definitely want to keep function in the forefront because I have never been a fan of things that are strictly decorative. I want to create things that have a purpose and that you are not afraid to use. Because if you go out and spend $200 on a pair of pants you are not going to want to go ride a bike in them. I want to keep things inexpensive and keep them functional. Of course there is fashion, we all want to look good…otherwise what’s the point? One of the original ideas behind the line was that I didn’t want to be one of those guys in spandex; I wanted to be able to ride comfortably and still be able to stop at the grocery store. What are some of the items that you are the most proud of? The pants and the deluxe messenger bags. The pants simply because they are difficult to make, there are a lot of little things that can go wrong and I am just happy to now be able to make pants that fit well and look good. That was just a huge challenge. And then the deluxe messenger bag because I have always been into multi function. I spent a long time thinking about the components and how they would fit together. It has interchangeable front flap pocket, removable inner lining, and front pockets. I also do custom components on that bag for people who may have specific requirements and requests. Do you think you will continue to do custom work? Yeah because that is the most fun. It also really helps with inspiration. People will come to me with certain requirements and I’ll have to figure out a way to make it work. What are some of the items that are in development? I’m always coming up with new ideas for designs. The backpack is the biggest thing. I was reluctant at first to make this style of bag but I have had a lot of requests for them and am now working on a design. I also have a design for a mechanic apron that I had launched at the fashion show at Mellow Johnny’s but had only made the one. So those two items will be available soon. Your brand currently seems to be pretty prevalent in the Austin bike community, how do you want to see your business grow in the next few years? Honestly I don’t ever want to be huge. I want it to grow enough to be able to focus the majority of my time on design and prototypes rather than stitching and accounting. If it can support maybe a dozen employees I would be happy with that. Other than providing wicked cool clothing and accessories, in what ways do you intend to use your brand to help support the bike community? Eventually I would like to support the Texas Bike Coalition and The Yellow Bike Project. I also have a Gold Sprint set up that could be a huge draw for bike related benefits. What are some of the other things you’re currently into and what do we have to look forward to from you and the Psychlist line in the next year? I have hosted some Gold Sprints around town for 42 Below and at the Bike Film Fest. I get requests for sponsoring races and rides. I have a bunch of promotional bags I’m developing for bike events in and out of Texas. I am looking forward to doing more gold sprints, benefit rides, more clothes of course. I want to start branching off into other cycling related stuff. I want to make multi functional panniers for touring. I am also looking forward to working on bike designs for custom trailers and cargo bikes. Fan Mail

2009-11-23T14:16:29-06:00

press 3625772

2009-11-23T14:16:29-06:00

334392

Press 2010-01-21T16:59:31-06:00 See what people are saying about Psychlist: Subversive Cycling. *Zlog Blog:* <a href="http://www.zlogblog.com/2009/10/psychlist-dime-bag.html">Psychlist Dime Bag!</a> <img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_D_gA1kMwT6o/SuISFUxh8sI/AAAAAAAADX4/a7BSgR-kd2A/s400/IMG_8156.JPG"> I have collected various hip pouches and bags throughout the last couple years and this one has been the most practical by far. This Austin, Texas made pouch, straps onto a belt, can hold a U-lock, and has 3 different compartments for all your organizational desires. It is fairly flat & isn't as bulky as some other fanny-pack inspired designs. The Dime Bag is versatile, I personally have been using it as a tool/tube bag that I can throw in my backpack or strap onto my belt if I need to rush out the door. The quality is on par with a Re-Load or Freight bags. I am very happy with it and suggest you pick one up (only $40) _Thanks Zach!_ *Thrillist* <a href="http://www.thrillist.com/austin/psychlist-subversive-cycling">Psychlist: Subversive Cycling</a> <img src="http://images.thrillist.com/files/images/pieces/99946/img_0056-medium_MAP.jpg"> <notextile> Like pitching and playing running back, the ability to pedicab at the highest level can go suddenly -- maybe you can still the bring the fatties to Whataburger, but your ability to bring them back from Whataburger's a thing of the past. Setting up for pedi-tirement, the churning thighs behind Psychlist: Subversive Cycling. PSC's a complete line of thoughtfully functional bags each built tough enough to withstand the rigors of the road (traveling down it, falling on it); the biz was started up by a veteran pedicabber named Russell S in order to still pay rent until Hollywood creates a "Nordberg"-type role for all-star people-movers. Lined with waterproof vinyl polyester coating, the heavy-duty Cordura numbers are available in 20+ colors (from woodland camo to purple) and four sizes, each named after a quantity of illicit materials: the wallet sized “Nickel” has space for your phone and cards, the hip-hanging “Dime” is built for a U-lock, the “Quarter” comes with laptop friendly detachable pockets, and the monstrous “Que Pee” has 2560 cubic inches of space; each model also comes with a hidden stash pocket, saving the cops a little reward for after they put your QP into evidence. Rounding out your lifestyle are color-customizable super-soft T's emblazoned with simple bike drawings and slogans ranging from the militant (“This is my weapon”), to the conversation-starting (“I rode my bike here”), to the conversation-ending (“I only ride a bike to compensate for my huge penis”). PSC also deals in made-to-order jeans with reinforced pockets and crotch, a selection of short-brimmed biker caps, and upper-frame pads for protecting the jewels -- because when those go suddenly, all the thigh-churning in the world won't keep you in the game. </notextile> _Kind of a crazy article, but that's cool. While it's true that I'm a veteran pedicabber, "hero" might be pushing it. :)_ *Dropout Interview* <a href="http://dropoutzine.com/read.html">Read the Dropout</a> Psychlist Interview: Russell Stinnett The first time I encountered Russell was at a mutual friend’s wedding and the first thing I thought was, ‘wow…cool pants!’ I think that it is safe to assume that many people have had similar experiences when meeting Russell. The article of admiration is easily transferable though, as in, ‘wow…cool ____ (insert pants/hat/bag/shirt).’ I wasn’t aware at the time that this was the man behind the skull and gear logo that represents his Psychlist: Subversive Cycling line I’d seen so often around town. In retrospect though, it would have made perfect sense. His unique approach to dress; of function coupled with style, transcends his own personal wardrobe and into his product line, which is great news for the rest of us. His clothing line stands out in the bike community here in Austin, as he is contributing in a totally new and unique way; offering cycling gear, hats, and clothing, which are not only functional and urban rider friendly, but also strikingly stylish. Which in a world of brightly colored and unforgiving spandex is necessary and thoroughly appreciated. Upon arriving at his studio in East Austin I was promptly offered a parfait. It appears that amongst the print screens, fabric piles, sewing machine, half completed hats and bags, and various bike parts, Russell has set up enough of a kitchen to prepare an artful raw vegan dessert complete with mint sprig. I was duly impressed. Russell is as extraordinary as his product line and we are grateful to have him be a part of out first issue. So read on and then go buy yourself a hat. *What are the three most important things a complete stranger should know about you?* Lets see, my sense of humor is sort of off color so don’t get offended, I don’t care about sports or politics so don’t bother bringing it up. Ummm, I don’t know…I like food. *How did you first get involved in the cycling community here in Austin?* My sister bought me a road bike to commute to work. I began riding to work and remember having to stop the first time and take a break. I started riding more and more and began pedicabbing and just really immersed myself in the culture. Once I learned more, I began building bikes and was working as the mechanic for the pedicab company. This was also the same time I turned my back on the tech industry. I had spent a decade working in that field and just had had enough. I just walked away from it. *For those of us who are not yet familiar with your company, describe what Psychlist: Subversive Cycling is and how it got started.* I design apparel and accessories for urban cyclists. How it got started? Well that depends on how far you want to go back I guess. I have been making and modifying my own clothes since I was in jr. high. When I started cycling and getting involved in the bike culture I immediately found respect for the DIY ideology that drives that whole sub culture. So I started doing it myself, figuring out how to make bags and pants and hats and make them work for people who ride. *Did you start by making the clothes for yourself?* All of the stuff that I make is stuff that I want for myself, but maybe couldn’t afford, or it wasn’t readily available, or saw a design I liked and was inspired to create something new, something more my own. *Did you find a strong demand for these types of products when you first started?* There was a lot of opportunity for bike-centric clothing as urban cycling became more and more popular. Things like the tapered pant leg and the messenger bag begin as a functional design and style and then turn into a trend that even people who are not avid bikers want to wear. It is a market that has grown so rapidly and a culture that is so cool that I had to get in on it. I mainly cater to cyclists with this particular line but I am developing another line of clothing inspired by my early years of hanging out in goth clubs and punk dives called Deep Down. *It is great to see a local brand of gear and clothing that so many Austin cyclists are into.* It is funny going on rides and parties and looking around, thinking hey I made that hat, and that bag. It’s really cool that it is catching on. It’s cool to see a complete stranger wearing a shirt that I made. Austin is really supportive of local manufactures, which is great. *It is interesting to see how businesses such as yours developed and changed from it’s initial concept.* Well the original concept was very very loosely defined. It developed out of two interests that I had at the same time, biking and design, so it was a natural progression. But the concept of the line started to solidify when I started pedicabbing. It kind of felt like I was this urban soldier. That is where the militant idea that you can see in some of the earlier shirts came from. Like “this is my weapon” and “the revolution will not be motorized”. It felt like as cyclists we were the urban soldiers of the streets. *Your line merges elements of function and style. What are your priorities in developing the Psychlist line further and solidifying the uniqueness of the brand?* I definitely want to keep function in the forefront because I have never been a fan of things that are strictly decorative. I want to create things that have a purpose and that you are not afraid to use. Because if you go out and spend $200 on a pair of pants you are not going to want to go ride a bike in them. I want to keep things inexpensive and keep them functional. Of course there is fashion, we all want to look good…otherwise what’s the point? One of the original ideas behind the line was that I didn’t want to be one of those guys in spandex; I wanted to be able to ride comfortably and still be able to stop at the grocery store. *What are some of the items that you are the most proud of?* The pants and the deluxe messenger bags. The pants simply because they are difficult to make, there are a lot of little things that can go wrong and I am just happy to now be able to make pants that fit well and look good. That was just a huge challenge. And then the deluxe messenger bag because I have always been into multi function. I spent a long time thinking about the components and how they would fit together. It has interchangeable front flap pocket, removable inner lining, and front pockets. I also do custom components on that bag for people who may have specific requirements and requests. *Do you think you will continue to do custom work?* Yeah because that is the most fun. It also really helps with inspiration. People will come to me with certain requirements and I’ll have to figure out a way to make it work. *What are some of the items that are in development?* I’m always coming up with new ideas for designs. The backpack is the biggest thing. I was reluctant at first to make this style of bag but I have had a lot of requests for them and am now working on a design. I also have a design for a mechanic apron that I had launched at the fashion show at Mellow Johnny’s but had only made the one. So those two items will be available soon. *Your brand currently seems to be pretty prevalent in the Austin bike community, how do you want to see your business grow in the next few years?* Honestly I don’t ever want to be huge. I want it to grow enough to be able to focus the majority of my time on design and prototypes rather than stitching and accounting. If it can support maybe a dozen employees I would be happy with that. *Other than providing wicked cool clothing and accessories, in what ways do you intend to use your brand to help support the bike community?* Eventually I would like to support the Texas Bike Coalition and The Yellow Bike Project. I also have a Gold Sprint set up that could be a huge draw for bike related benefits. *What are some of the other things you’re currently into and what do we have to look forward to from you and the Psychlist line in the next year?* I have hosted some Gold Sprints around town for 42 Below and at the Bike Film Fest. I get requests for sponsoring races and rides. I have a bunch of promotional bags I’m developing for bike events in and out of Texas. I am looking forward to doing more gold sprints, benefit rides, more clothes of course. I want to start branching off into other cycling related stuff. I want to make multi functional panniers for touring. I am also looking forward to working on bike designs for custom trailers and cargo bikes. *Fan Mail*