Behind The Print with Murdy Creative Co.
Welcome to the latest episode of Behind The Print, where we bring you the creative stories of industry leaders shaping the world of professional printing. In this episode, I chat with Colin Murdy, the founder and CEO/Owner of Murdy Creative Co. Colin dives into the story behind his New York City-based brand, which specializes in high-quality leather goods made entirely in the USA without glue or stitching.
Founded in 2018 on the principle of crafting items that truly last a lifetime and beyond, Colin shares how his vision for enduring quality is brought to life through meticulous craftsmanship. This interview explores the journey of building a successful product-based business focused on durability, American manufacturing, and creative vision.
Below, you’ll find the transcript of our conversation, edited for clarity to ensure easy reading. If you want the full, authentic experience, make sure to check out the video attached below.
12-minute read
“Every order is a blessing. I check them myself because staying connected to our customers keeps me grounded. When you hold something real, made by real people, you feel the story behind it. That’s what Murdy Creative Co. is all about.” Colin Murdy
Transcripts from Behind The Print with Colin Murdy, CEO & Owner of Murdy Creative Co.
Welcome back to Behind The Print podcast, where we feature industry leaders and uncover the creative minds behind businesses in the professional printing world. Our mission is to provide you with inspiring, actionable resources to elevate your business projects and accelerate your journey to excellence in profit and print.
Today’s episode takes us inside Murdy Creative Co., a brand redefining craftsmanship through heirloom quality leather goods made to last a lifetime. From journals and binders to beautifully engineered designs, their work combines classic artistry with modern innovation, all crafted right here in the USA. I’m so excited to welcome the founder himself, Colin Murdy.
Colin: It’s great to be here!
Zoe: We are thrilled to have you! I have to say, we’ve been following your Instagram for a while and love your videos, the product showcases, the craftsmanship, the creativity. It’s such a breath of fresh air.
Colin: Thank you. Those videos are a lot of fun to make. We used to hire an out of town marketing firm to handle that side of things, but I found their work didn’t capture the real passion or authenticity we wanted to show. So we brought all of that in house. It meant I had to learn a lot about video editing, lighting, and camera work, but it’s been completely worth it. I would strongly recommend that to any small business owner. Learn how to use the tools yourself. The time you invest will pay off a hundred percent.
Zoe: That’s great marketing advice for anyone trying to elevate their brand and make an impact on social media.
Colin: Exactly. The world of advertising today is so saturated. Social media and paid media are everywhere, which gives us both opportunities and challenges. Whether you choose to go organic or more polished, how you present your brand visually can tell a much bigger story than people realize. In a world where we’re constantly surrounded by advertising, your presentation truly matters.
Zoe: So for those new to Murdy Creative Co., who do you serve through your brand, and what does that responsibility mean to you as both a marketer and storyteller?
Colin: We live in a fast paced, noisy world where everything happens instantly. There’s a famous quote from when the railroads first reached California. Someone said, “Now it takes two days to get here instead of five. That means people will have three extra days to explore.” The response was, “No, it means business will happen in two days.” That’s the reality of our time. Technology and now AI have accelerated everything. There’s so much pressure to perform and respond instantly.
We wanted to create something that pushes back against that speed, products that are tangible, grounding, and connect people to something real. Writing is one of humanity’s most creative acts. Even if you don’t see yourself as artistic, when you pick up a pen and make marks that carry meaning from your mind to paper, that’s creativity. Studies show it’s completely different from typing. We wanted to build the best tools possible for that experience.
“We live in a world surrounded by cheap imitations of the real thing. I wanted to make something that would truly last.” Colin Murdy
Zoe: That’s such a powerful perspective, especially in this fast moving world. And you’re right, AI is only accelerating that pace. What first inspired you to create your first leather bound journal, and how did that evolve into a full company?
Colin: It started back in high school. I took an experimental art course where we explored old, almost forgotten art forms like copperplate etching and press work. One of our projects was a stab bound book. At the time, I was into movies, props, and theater, so I thought, “I can make better prop books than what’s sold online.” That idea to make something real and well crafted became the foundation of everything.
Over time, I realized how much of our world is surrounded by cheap imitations of quality. We’re surrounded by things that aren’t designed to last. In contrast, throughout most of human history, tools were treasured. They were made with care and built to endure. That mindset inspired us. We wanted to create products that look beautiful and perform even better in real life.
Zoe: I love that. I can totally picture it, like a blacksmith making a sword, weeks of craftsmanship for a tool that might travel far beyond its maker. That same pride and purpose comes through in what you do.
Colin: Exactly. Back then, craftspeople knew their neighbors and made tools for people they cared about. There was pride and community in that relationship. Today, many of us have lost that connection. We buy things online without any sense of who made them. That disconnect allows for poor quality because there’s no personal responsibility attached. But when your name is literally on every product, as mine is, you hold yourself to a higher standard. I’ll never send something out that isn’t the best we can make.
Zoe: That’s incredible and honestly so rare these days. Buying cheap, disposable goods has become the norm, even when we know better. But what you’re describing is so much more meaningful.
Colin: It’s true. And there’s a hidden cost to cheap products. If something is extremely inexpensive, someone else is paying that cost, usually through poor working conditions or low wages somewhere else in the world. Our products cost more, yes, but that’s because they’re made ethically. Our team here is well paid and valued. We buy from responsible suppliers in Milwaukee who care for their workers, and our leather comes from Midwest farms where the animals are treated humanely. So that higher price represents real value, ethical value.
“None of our products use glue or stitching, only leather and metal, so they’re designed to last a lifetime.” Colin Murdy
Zoe: That’s such a healthy mindset. You’ve built not only a recognizable style but also deep rooted values. What do you think sets your approach apart from other leather brands?
Colin: There’s a long, proud tradition of leatherworking, and I have great respect for other makers. But our design philosophy is unique. None of our products use glue or stitching, ever. When most leather products fail, it’s not the leather that breaks down, it’s the stitching. Leather can last over a century, but no thread can match that durability. So instead, we use leather on leather or metal hardware for every joint.
We also make every product refillable. The paper inserts in our journals and binders can be replaced, so they’re truly built to last. We use an interlocking seam system, what we call tab locking seams, where the pieces fit together almost like woven fingers. It creates incredible strength and longevity.
Zoe: That’s so innovative. I love journaling and drawing, so I’ve looked at a lot of leather bound options. Hearing how yours are engineered makes me even more excited to get one.
Colin: I’m glad to hear that. Our product line keeps expanding because customers come to us with ideas. They’ll say, “I love your journal, but can you make one in this size or for this insert?” We take that feedback seriously. That’s how we’ve added products for Japanese inserts like Midori and other formats people love. If you ever don’t see what you’re looking for, reach out. I’m always happy to design something new.
Zoe: That’s awesome. You can really feel your passion for craftsmanship and customer care.
Colin: Designing and crafting are my favorite parts of what we do. And we’re not stopping at leather, we’re exploring other materials too. We’re currently developing an all metal ballpoint pen, built with the same mindset of lasting 120 years or more. There aren’t many quality options like that, so we’re excited to bring our design ethos into new products.
Zoe: I love that. So how do you use print to amplify your message? I’ve seen your catalogs, they’re gorgeous and really showcase your products beautifully.
Colin: Print has been an important part of how we communicate our brand. We actually include a printed catalog in every product box. It’s a way to show customers the full range of what we offer. In digital marketing, you’re usually limited to showing one product at a time. People scroll fast, and attention spans are short. But print lets us tell a broader story. Our catalogs rotate seasonally so repeat customers see new layouts and new products. They help inspire exploration, getting people to visit our site and discover more of what we make.
Zoe: That’s such a smart strategy. Repurposing print like that really deepens engagement. Was there a moment when you realized this business could become something lasting?
Colin: Absolutely. It happened when I was finishing college. I had been selling a few handmade books on Etsy, but nothing serious. As a graduation gift for the dean of the business school, who was also my mentor, I made a custom leather binder designed specifically for his work. He loved it so much that he ordered 30 more for the faculty. That single order funded my first laser engraver and my first real production run. Within eight months, I was able to quit my job and focus on Murdy Creative full time. That was in 2018, and it’s been growing ever since.
Zoe: That’s such a great story and what a meaningful way to start. Of course, every small business faces challenges. What have been the biggest ones for you?
Colin: There are plenty, from managing production details to larger economic forces. But the hardest part for me was realizing how much of my job involves finances. I started the business because I love design, but a big portion of my time is spent managing cash flow, budgeting, and planning. You learn quickly that you can’t control everything, the economy, the weather, even daily sales. So I’ve learned to approach each day with gratitude. Every order we receive is a blessing. I personally check each one because I want to stay connected to the people supporting us. That gratitude keeps me grounded through the uncertainty that comes with entrepreneurship.
“If you want to advertise your product, take the time to learn the tools. It’ll be worth it a hundred percent of the time.” Colin Murdy
Zoe: That really resonates. We feel the same at PrintingCenterUSA. Every project matters. It’s that personal connection that drives everything we do.
Colin: Exactly. It’s easy to get caught up in the numbers, but when you focus on the people behind each purchase, it changes how you see your work. Small business ownership is a marathon, not a sprint, and you need that perspective to sustain you.
Zoe: I couldn’t agree more. And Colin, before we wrap up, can you give us a little insider scoop, something your customers might not know about Murdy Creative Co.?
Colin: Most people don’t realize how small and personal our operation really is. Every single product that leaves our shop passes through my hands or someone on my direct team. We care deeply about every detail, from the design to the way it’s packaged. There’s no automation replacing the human element here. I think people can feel that when they open the box.
Zoe: I love that. You can sense that pride and human touch in everything you make. It’s been such an inspiring conversation, Colin. Thank you so much for sharing your story with us.
Colin: Thank you for having me. It’s been a pleasure.
That’s a wrap on another episode of Behind The Print. Thanks to our listeners for joining us as we explore the artistry and innovation of the printing world. Remember, have a strong vision, build the right strategy, and use tools like print to amplify your message and make your brand stand out.
If you enjoyed today’s episode, be sure to get your sample pack today from PrintingCenterUSA.com and share it with your fellow business enthusiasts. Until next time, keep your creative sparks flying, and remember, there’s always more to discover behind the print.
Craftsmanship That Lasts a Lifetime
Colin Murdy is redefining what it means to create with purpose. As the founder of Murdy Creative Co., he brings time-honored craftsmanship and thoughtful design to modern life. From handcrafted journals to heirloom-quality binders, his work builds connection, creativity, and pride in the things we use every day. With integrity, precision, and passion, Colin proves that craftsmanship isn’t just about making products; it’s about making meaning.
Listen to the full episode on Spotify or Amazon Music, and watch the interview on YouTube to experience the full conversation.
