Mercy Supply Trucker Wallet

I was looking for a new wallet recently and a friend recommended I check out Mercy Supply (now known as Sidnaw Company) in Grand Rapids, Michigan. People know that I dig hand made artisan stuff that’s built well. And when I buy something I want it to last a long time. I checked out their website and was greeted with a video that got my heart rate pumping. The video opens with rock music and an old urban factory with owner Rusty Zylstra unrolling 24 oz canvas, using old sewing machines, and manually working a copper rivet machine that is straight out of the industrial revolution. The riveter itself is as artistic as it is iconic. And then someone kickstarts a gnarly chopper and I’m like “Oh heck yeah. I have to have something from these dudes.”

For several years Rusty backpacked the United States taking in the scenery and gathering inspiration. He landed on Grand Rapids and set up shop in the industrial district. He says “Yeah, I’ve got a beard. Mostly because I’m low maintenance. I grow my hair out for the same reason.” Simplicity and straightforwardness describes him to a tee. “I started this business by trial and error because I wanted goods that would last. Typically there are only about three of us in the shop.”

I landed on a wallet and didn’t look back. The Trucker Wallet ($140) is offered in black, brown, oxblood and natural. Being a man of the beard, I went natural. The veg tan wallet will age and darken over time to give it a cool patina. It has solid brass hardware with a hand hammered solid copper rivet and raw copper snap. I like that the strap hooks to my belt loop. It has two bill pockets and four credit card slots. Not into the bigger wallet? Mercy has a classic Bifold Wallet that’s sharp as well.

They also have a fullrange of items that include waxed canvas Work Jackets ($299) and Work Vests ($235).

Their  Camp Hats ($65) are a classic 5-panel. They offer four different Dopp Kits ($99) and the canvas and leather Lunch Bag ($65) will make you the envy of the office.

The Craftsman’s Apron ($199-229) is super cool whether you’re actually crafting something or just throwing some meat on the grill for summer.

Mercy has about 14 stockists if you want to check them out in person.