Get to Know: Eduardo Miranda

We’ve seen plenty of people come through the workshop doors since we founded the brand in 2006, but few have had the impact on our whole crew like Mister Miranda. You’ll probably recognize him from few pics on our Instagram feed… or maybe even from the scores Japanese travel magazines and publications that have come through to document our process each year. With a skill-set as wide as his smile, Ed has been an incredible member of our vibrant family since his first day. Following his time at the Oregon College of Art and Craft, Eddie found his way to our small neck of the woods and quickly impressed us all with his deft attention to detail and his infectious personality. Lets just say, if you like hugs, you’ll love Ed.

Over the last few years, Ed’s played an integral role in getting some of our favorite products off the ground and into our customer’s hands. From those very first Nokori Folding chairs, to our popular hand-stitched watch straps…not to mention building approximately 50% of every single belt that’s gone out the doors over the last few years, it’s safe to say, he’s left his mark on Tanner Goods. 

Unfortunately for us, Ed’s made the decision to close the book on his journey at Tanner Goods and begin the next chapter of his life in California, so we decided that we should send him off with a proper feature on the Journal. Beyond the work he’s done in our workshop, he’s an incredibly talented guy and we’re extremely proud to have gotten to know him so intimately over the last few years. Before he departs Portland, we sat down and asked him a couple questions about his life and his time here. We’re sad to see him go, but excited to see what the future holds. 

What’s your role here at Tanner Goods?

I am one of two members of the belts/flat goods department. Basically I make everything that’s not a bag or a wallet. 

What are your favorite things happening in Portland?

The old time music scene here in Portland is pretty amazing! I'm from the south where old time music could be amazing, but to be honest I think Portland can stand up to West Virginia, the Carolinas, VA, etc. Square dances and jams happen regularly and of course there's the Portland Old Time gathering in January. To top that off the country and honky tonk scene here's not too bad. I used to go to the Landmark Saloon about 4 times a week to two step with pretty ladies. So yeah. Weird old country and Old Time music. (Be sure to take a look at a small sample of some of Eddie's work below - M)

Tell us a bit about what inspires your creative process?

I've always been the curious tinkering kind of person. As a kid I would take every thing I own apart and put it back together. I think that curiosity is what really drives me. I want to know how everything works. But learning how a machine works isn't enough. I have a habit of wanting to know how it all started. How was any process done prior to machines. And once I get that understanding of any given process, I run with it. That’s when I can really shut my mind off and just "flow". 

Which tool(s) do you use in your personal work?

I favor hand tools over machines always. Machines are great but they're way too loud. My favorite tools are my Japanese back saw, and my Lie Nielson low angle block plane. 

Three things you can’t live without?

This question is always a tricky one...so

1) My faith

2) My community

3) Work- and for me this includes music and making. I consider both to be the same thing. 

Well said Ed. Good luck, buddy.