Meet Two 20-Somethings From Brooklyn Who Are Turning Door Locks Into Stylish Jewelry
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When Dana Hurwitz sees a sliding chain lock typically found on the door of a New York City apartment, she doesn't see a form of protection from intruders. She sees jewelry.
Hurwitz and her business partner Vince Barile are the founders of BOND Hardware, a jewelry line that re-purposes hardware items by converting them into jewelry pieces. The duo started their brand a year ago after finding a window lock on the street, and had an epiphany that the piece of hardware would make a bold and unique necklace.
"Vince and I both like to be buttoned up, but don't enjoy bow ties," Hurwitz, 21, said. "I would describe my personal style as matronly and classic. The hardware jewelry spoke to us and allowed an option to feel like we've put a finishing touch on our outfits."
The line is unisex and started off selling purely by word of mouth. After using social media like tumblr, making connections at New York Fashion Week, and using the guidance of their art schools, Hurwitz and Barile hit a tipping point and BOND Hardware is now receiving bulk orders from boutiques and stores in Japan, and is featured on popular sites such as I Don't Like Mondays.
The duo order the hardware pieces from Stanley Hardware and National Hardware, and all of their jewelry is hand made. Parts are movable and twist-able so that pieces do not become tangled. The pair allots about two weeks for production, depending on the order size. Because all of the materials are bought locally and the product is handmade, BOND Hardware qualifies as a sustainable brand.
"We love re-purposing these household objects into something funky," Hurwitz said.
The small double-clip is the cheapest option at $33 and the most expensive item is the Hitch Ring, which costs $66. Their most popular item, the chain-lock, is currently sold out.
In the future BOND Hardware will incorporate colored finishes, such as white, and may include girlier touches like pearls and feathers in order to attract a wider customer base. The company is also looking to offer every piece in gold and silver.
"The scale of our jewelry just begs for a strong reaction," Hurwitz said. "It's a conversation piece and that's how our brand is going to continue to grow."
As Hurwitz and Barile continue their studies (Hurwitz studies at the Pratt Institute and Barile at The Art Institute), they will both work part-time for BOND Hardware until it's grown enough to support two full-time employees.
"We have a lot more to say with our brand," Barile said.
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