Our Story
Handlebend Mugs didn’t begin in the middle of nowhere, but next to it: Small Town, Nebraska. I wanted a copper mug, not a stainless steel cup wrapped in copper, but they are tough to come by. True copper mugs are out there, but they are typically old and the owners did not want to part with them because of their rarity. I sourced some scrap copper and built one mug. Shortly thereafter, that one, lonesome mug became part of a set. Four companions. All different. All crude. All ready for whatever this world was going to throw at them. But the best part of all is that I did not have to enjoy them alone anymore. It didn’t take long, after a camping trip full of mules and memories, wh***ey and forgetfulness, and even a rescue mission to save a mug from a September campfire, my best friend wanted a set. Actually, he “needed” a set, so together we built another set. All slightly less crude. But every bit as beautiful. Over the next couple of years, the idea that had blossomed into a copper mug, blossomed again; this time into special, handmade wedding or birthday gifts for our closest friends and family. The reviews came pouring in, enough so that we made a decision: to share them with everyone. These mugs are an experience. They are fun to drink out of and feel amazing in your hand. They can just as easily cool you down when your brow beads with sweat as they can cozy you up when your heart is full, and you’re spending a cold holiday night with those you cherish most. We all change. We all grow. The idea that started these mugs has changed; it has grown. It takes a lot of time to build something by hand from nothing. So as we built these mugs before a big event, for our loved ones, we would reminisce over time spent with each and every person we made the mugs for. Now, that time is spent wondering, dreaming, and painting the picture of the picnic table, bar or hearth these beauties might adorn. Where will these mugs end up? Who might they bring joy? Your mugs are already storied with our thoughts, our time and our best wishes. That story does not end with us; it is merely transferred to you. It is transferred with the good faith that you will continue to shape it for years, decades, and generations with your loved ones. Enjoy these mugs, and drop in once in a while to let us know how their story is coming along. Seriously, we want to know!
