Kosläpp
my 2026 «funeral for winter» gift guide
In years past I’ve curated various year-end gift guides. This year I wanted to do something different. Kosläpp is the Swedish tradition of «cow release» signifying the time of year that cows are released into pasture after being kept indoors all winter.
The transitional earthiness of this is a rich metaphor. We are now (at least in the Pacific Northwest) in a sort of transition to warmer, sunnier weather. To coincide with this I wanted to recommend some tasteful objects that I’ve come across in my recent sojourning. Each one of these items is designed with care, and built to last. I hope you find many beautiful and rich adventures in 2026 (and beyond).
Mission Workshop D21
I’ve written about Mission Workshop previously (in an interview with founder Bart Kyzar). Much attention has been given to their range of high-end backpacks and accessories for urban and outdoor exploration. But not enough attention has been given their clothing line. They apply the same understated performance to premium garments and outerwear with clean lines and ridiculous performance in any environment.
The D21 is the quintessential winter coat. The recycled down provides warmth and the sustainable DWR Pertex shell will keep rain and moisture at bay.
Bellroy’s Laneway Collection
There are so many brands doing fascinating things with urban carry, but none at the forefront of innovation more than Bellroy. Their laneway collection features a luxe fabric with a beautiful matte sheen. Whether it is their 12L crescent bag and belt bag, or their new sunglasses case and daily pouch the entire collection has rich, sophisticated colors and is perfect for a day out exploring the city.
Fjällräven Kånken No. 2 Black
Made of adaptable, quick-drying Greenland wax this canvas bag is perhaps the most iconic version of the most iconic backpack from this most iconic Swedish company known for revolutionizing the way children carry their gear. Compact, durable, and understated.
The iA Notebook
I’ve tried and used lots of beautiful notebooks, but this beautiful crafted piece of art from iA takes the cake. The subtle barely-show-through lines disappear as you write, and every aspect of this notebook is crafted with the utmost quality and care.
Blackwing
The «resurrection» of the iconic Blacking 602 (incense cedar, coats of lacquer, iconic ferrule) is a modern success story. Blending high craft with an analog culture bent toward the sensory craft of writing, Blackwing has emerged with beautiful modern tools that elevate the classic form of writing. I recommend starting with 602, peruse their custom Editions, and try their metal sharpener.
over engineered TRAY 01
ov_e makes beautifully machined desk products that are built to last a lifetime. Their aluminum Tray_01 is the perfect pen storage for your desk, credenza, or nightstand. Each one is beautifully crafted as a work of modern art.
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I hope you enjoyed this break from the standard interview content. I’ll be back soon with more interviews, deep-dives behind different products and brands, and continued attention to the work behind the work. Cheers!