What do Bill Murray, Johnny Cash and Arnold from Different Strokes have in common? They all make appearances on clothes from Sandbox Threads, the new online store from stay at home dad, Andy Swaggerty. Sandbox aims to provide “Funky Styles for Little Hipsters” with clothes influenced by everything from celebrity and pop culture to political activism, travel and sports all with vintage and retro inspired themes. Aside from our favorites, Bill, Johnny, and Arnold, we like the travel and Vintage Ad lines.
The story of Sandbox Threads begins when Andy found himself in a new state, with a new baby, and the new title of stay at home dad. He also found himself wondering why he couldn’t find a t-shirt or onesie with a little attitude that didn’t cost $30. (A question we’ve had as well.) From this wondering, an “idea was hatched.”
Since newborns sleep a lot, “during naptime this ‘stay-at-home’ dad had plenty of time to draw up plans for an online business.” Andy’s desire to start a business was threefold: “First, a second source of income would allow me to continue to stay at home with my son. Secondly, there seemed to be a hole in the baby clothes market, and I believed that I could find a way to fill the gap. Finally, I felt something was missing in me. I didn’t feel emasculated, but I did feel a need to contribute to our family in addition to taking care of Ben.”
Andy says his inspirations for new designs come from all over and he’s never sure where the next will pop up. Recent ideas have come from the bumper sticker of a car in front of him and a gas station attendant. Sandbox Threads launched last March; you can browse and buy at Sandbox Threads.
By David on 04/25/07 in Parentrepreneur, Style, Featured, Stylish Children, 2007 Business Spotlights, Online Boutique of the Week
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