Today we’d like to introduce you to Nick Arbour.
Hi Nick, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Summer 1983, and so it began.
I guess you can say I’ve been a denim head since before I even knew what the term meant. As a young Albertan kid in early grade school strutting GWG’s or jeans with leather yokes and coin pockets, to rocking some Paco or Kansas jeans with some basketball sneaks. Then, in junior high, I graduated to wearing European denim (Motore, Costello, C-17 & Replay) while making fashion statements by repping biker boots with raw hems. In high school, I mostly went with classic 501s and low-top sneaks before I began to venture into the world of GStar & Diesel, with their unique patterns and amazing fades. Once I stepped into the world of raw denim, though, circa 2007, as I stumbled upon a pair of Nudies, the Average Joe, and the wear me for 6 months without washing marketing strategy, I was sold. I haven’t looked back and never will. So, to ask if denim is a passion, I wouldn’t just say yes, I would say it’s a part of me, it’s some of who I am. Everyday.
To date, I’ve made a career in the oil and gas industry. Starting as laborer, then decided maybe I should read some books and get a degree. Making denim goods was never something I imagined; never mind thought was possible. But back coming on 10 years this May, after a round of sticks and a cold one with a good friend, conversation was had, and a thought was sparked about making some custom jeans. Throughout that process, it was clear to me I enjoyed this new challenge. The engineer in me reveled in the research of what was the best thread to use, stitch types, stitch counts, what hardware was needed for durability, pattern construction, and, of course, what was the top-quality denim worked with. The artist in me reveled in the creation. When it came to determining the first fit, my O&G history gave me some insight into what quality workwear and durable goods would require to stand up to the hard days of a laborer or craftsman. It also gave me a glimpse as to what kinds of clean-cut might fly in an office setting. With all that said, everything I put into this couldn’t just end with a single custom pair of jeans; there had to be more.
So now, as I attempt to merge my focus on the quality of materials, paying attention to construction and detail, working with like-minded and responsible individuals, using vintage and classic influences, leaning into my personal style and an overall appreciation of creating.
I bring you Stock Tank Supply & Co.
A beginning has to start somewhere.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
As much as one would hope so, it certainly has not been, but that’s okay and to be honest, there’s been a lot of humbling experiences along the way that are truly invaluable. First off, coming into an industry I knew nothing about was a bit daunting, but I think my engineering background allowed me to approach it more technically. Pencil to paper. Map it out, do the digging, piece it together, and somehow figure it out. With nothing to lose, really why not, but we just had to get it in motion.
We’ve come across numerous “Nos” with regards to factories and manufacturers, as I was simply looking to make very small quantities, and they simply weren’t interested. I have had to find new factories over the years as, again, my goal of a single-run, small-batch production still doesn’t always sit well.
I have always and continue to struggle with reach and awareness, as this outfit is a small, self-funded, family-run outfit, and we simply don’t have the means nor money for flashy marketing and paid influence. From the jump, I’ve always wanted true organic growth, and to my own detriment, we’ve stucked to those principles which have really slowed the growth of our operation. With that said, I appreciate this approach much more and feel it’s a sustainable way to get loyal traction in an otherwise saturated landscape. And believe that with our continued passion, patience, and persistence, we are steadily making some ground, building something people can get behind.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
First off, Stock Tank Supply & Co. is an ever-evolving body of work, not just a company that makes jeans. This is something true to who I am as a human being and a reflection of this humble life we live. Back almost 10 years ago, when starting STS, there were no expectations nor true understanding of the endeavor I was about to embark on. However, it has allowed me to challenge myself, dig into my why and embrace the creative within. Art | In All Forms, if you will.
On the surface, STS has a few initiatives.
First, to create single-run production, quality made-in-America goods. With a focus on raw goods and particularity American woven selvedge denim. The concept of taking a raw fabric, constructing a useable good, and then beginning the journey and relationship with the fabric and garment is something special. With time, these pieces build character that represent you, they tell a story of times past, and they simply get better with age and wear.
Second, we believe in providing a service for our fellow humans. Every year, we run a campaign, One For One | Everyone, which basically takes 5% of all our revenue, and in turn, we give back to those who may need some additional support to their current circumstances. This may be in the shape of donated food, possibly hygienic-related items, and/or clothing garments to sustain harsh living environments. It’s not a lot I know, but it’s a necessity and will always be inside and outside of STS.
Lastly, we just want to build something raw, real, and responsible. We have 2 young boys, and we want to use this as a way to show them what one can do and achieve when you pour your heart and soul into it. We want it to be something they can be a part of and one day take the reins and continue to mission at hand.
So, if any of that jives with ya and you can get behind, hit us up. Always happy to chat and chop it up.
Although we currently do not have a brick-and-mortar space, we certainly try and get around to pop-up shops throughout Los Angeles and Southern California as often as we can. We frequent a couple local markets and events throughout each year, as well as holding a monthly residency at the World Famous Rosebowl Flea Market. Additionally, we host our own event annually, The Shindig, which embraces our Art | In All Forms ethos and brings together a community of like-minded creatives, showcasing their work, skills, and talents. We hosted our 3rd this past December, and it was incredible. We are certainly looking forward to Vol. 4 this winter.
You can always tap into the website and check our shop schedule to see when and where we might be posted up.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
Stay True. Stay Humble. Be a Good Human.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.stocktanksupply.com
- Instagram: @stocktanksupply
- Facebook: @stocktanksupply
- Twitter: @stocktanksupply
- Youtube: @stocktanksupply
Image Credits
The Denim Hound
