I always tell people “It took a long time to get here.”  Looking around my work space there is just soo much that comes to mind especially when I look at every piece of equipment, every hour spent, every piece designed.  The hours spent learning, designing, and creating are endlessly enjoyed. 

Alongside the DKNATION logos that hang on the walls, there are also drawers filled with hoodies, shirts and hats. This clothing stands as evidence of the last six years of hard work. My unique logo of, Deryck's original clothing brand, DKNATION proudly incorporated on each garment.

Pronounced as “Dk's Nation,” DKNATION's initial inspiration and hope of production was to help support my younger siblings. I would often say "Raising them full time by myself since I was 18; this brand was the better way to help support them, without having to work for a company that would have me gone all hours of the day and night." The business venture has continued today as a part of a movement to inspire others in similar situations.

When I started, I had no idea where this would lead. I self-taught and was very dedicated. I would talk to other people or other brands to help figure out the right path. I definitely knew I was willing to put in the time and effort. 

I created this website and began making designs, sourced blank garments from different vendors, locating the highest quality materials. Then began creating things. I first started with one machine, I quickly discovered that wasn't the way I wanted to display my brand. The process took too long and required too much work. When I heard of laser prints and embordering I knew this is what I wanted for my brand. Everything started to come together. 

Despite generating sales, I was motivated to reach a higher level of success. I can often still hear the words of my aunt in my head. "Dang D slow down, you just jumped off the porch with it. Wherever you wanna be you'll get there, just give it time." Where I want to be is a higher quality competitor of the major brands and I was and still am VERY determined.