About

Sometimes, you have a vision that goes beyond a job title. You’ve got a motivated, independent spirit, a burning desire to create, and a willingness to forge your own path—even when the road ahead isn’t clear. The trick? Trusting that the dots will eventually connect.

Being a small business owner isn’t easy. But at the end of the day, you can claim ownership over your work, and that’s worth fighting for.

The Grafletics Story:
I’m Rick Gilbert, the founder and creative force behind Grafletics—a brand that blends the outdoors, sports, retro-modern graphic design, nostalgia, and local sentiment.

Grafletics was conceptualized in NW Portland in 2013 and has become a growing regional apparel brand with customers across the U.S. and abroad. In 2019 we even received a nod from the New York Times highlighting our apparel.

But let’s rewind.

In 2010, I moved to Portland from Baltimore, Maryland. I didn’t know many people, so to make friends I played basketball, and a lot of it. Sports have always been a lifeline for me, as has graphic design so it felt natural to blend the two together. People say if you do what you love you’ll never work another day in your life. I can’t say I agree because this is when the hustle began. It wasn’t easy, but hard can be good.

I started selling my t-shirts at a local retailer in Portland’s Old Town district and within the first month we sold through all 5 styles. There was an appetite for what I was making, so I leaned in.

Our community loves apparel that reflects our locale without looking touristy.

For the next three years I expanding the line from basketball inspired apparel to soccer and outdoor inspired merch, selling at street fairs, outdoor markets and pop-up shops. Eventually moving into wholesale.

What is the Grafletics Mission?:
To make your friends ask “Where’d you get that”.

We don’t exist in big box stores, Amazon, or print on demand marketplaces. We make rare threads for people who understand that style is about comfort and individual expression.

Collaboration:
Grafletics isn’t just about making great product—it’s about partnering with brands that align with our vision. Over the years, we’ve had the chance to create some incredible collaborations. Every collaboration is designed to sell through fast, because when you create something that truly resonates with people, they respond with a purchase.

Wholesale:
If you’re a retailer, boutique, or sports team looking for a unique assortment, with a track record of sell-through, we’d love to work with you. Your company can purchase two ways. Email me directly or click this buy wholesale link which directs you to Faire - an online business-to-business platform.