Aaron James Draplin, founder of Draplin Design Co. (DDC), has become one of the most recognized figures in modern graphic design. His work blends Americana, simplicity, and bold design elements, giving him a unique footprint in an industry filled with complexity and nuance. His rise from working with brands like Burton Snowboards to creating iconic logos and co-founding the popular Field Notes memo books has made him a household name among design enthusiasts.

Draplin’s Design Philosophy

At the core of Draplin’s design philosophy is simplicity and functionality. His style is characterized by clean lines, bold colors, and typography that communicates with clarity. Draplin often emphasizes how good design serves a purpose beyond just aesthetics—it should work. He is known for saying that design is about “getting it done right” and serving the people who use the products.

Draplin draws inspiration from various sources: vintage logos, industrial design, and mid-century modern aesthetics. Much of his work echoes a deep sense of nostalgia for the past while delivering a modern punch. He often takes cues from old American ephemera like logos from agricultural companies or signage from hardware stores, transforming them into something fresh and relevant.

Key Works

Over the years, Draplin has designed for a wide range of clients, from large corporations to smaller, independent brands. Each project showcases his characteristic boldness and attention to detail. Below are some key pieces of his work that exemplify his style and influence:

1. Field Notes Memo Books

Perhaps Draplin’s most famous creation, the Field Notes memo books, are an embodiment of his love for Americana and functional design. Co-created with Coudal Partners in 2007, the memo books were inspired by the practical field notebooks used by farmers in the early 20th century. The simple, durable design and minimalist branding have made Field Notes a cult favourite, beloved by creatives and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

2. Draplin’s Logo for the Coal Headwear Brand

Draplin’s work for Coal Headwear is an excellent example of his talent for creating timeless logos. The clean and memorable design of the logo is reflective of the brand’s rugged, outdoorsy aesthetic. His ability to capture a brand’s essence through bold typography and minimalistic elements is evident in this piece, which speaks to the quality and ethos of the Coal brand.

3. Nike

Draplin has collaborated with Nike on multiple projects, bringing his signature bold and minimal design aesthetic to their branding and promotional campaigns. His work often emphasizes strong, clean lines and simple typography, reinforcing Nike’s image as a powerhouse of sportswear and innovation. Draplin’s influence on these projects shows his ability to adapt his style to a global brand while maintaining his distinct visual identity.

4. Union Binding Co. Branding

For Union Binding Co., a company specializing in snowboard bindings, Draplin delivered a branding overhaul that emphasized boldness and durability. The new logo and visual identity reflected the strength and reliability of Union products, using stark, powerful lines that captured the brand’s no-nonsense appeal.

5. Sasquatch! Music Festival Poster

Draplin designed one of the promotional posters for the Sasquatch! Music Festival, showcasing his unique ability to blend nature-inspired themes with bold, attention-grabbing elements. The poster features striking typography, vibrant colors, and a playful sense of composition, which resonated with the music festival’s eclectic audience. This design exemplified Draplin’s ability to adapt his style to suit the specific needs of an event while maintaining his distinct visual language.

A Legacy of Bold Design

Draplin has had an undeniable impact on the design world, with a style that manages to be both nostalgic and forward-thinking. His designs appeal to the masses because they are approachable, functional, and often feel like a piece of everyday life. Beyond his design work, Draplin is a passionate advocate for the design community, regularly speaking at conferences and publishing resources for up-and-coming designers.

What makes Aaron Draplin’s work truly timeless is the way it connects with people. He proves that good design doesn’t have to be overly complicated—it just has to resonate.