Manual creates home goods for slow living.
In an age when new conveniences are celebrated as innovation, digitally curated lifestyles are worshiped, and hyper optimization of time is seen as a virtue — we have a divergent perspective.
We believe slowness is important. That everyday tasks should be celebrated. That there’s joy in repetitive rituals. That there’s pride to be found in doing something difficult. That friction and imperfection keep life interesting. We think taking your time is worth it.
Manual is a project in designing products that don’t bow to convenience, but instead ask you to be an active participant. Manual is a different path — one that asks you be critical of short cuts, and to slow down and appreciate the moment.
“Manual” means “worked by hand”—the driving ethos for our designs. But it’s also a reference to “user manuals,” the often overlooked booklets that explain how a product is operated and maintained. Inspired by technical manuals (and DIY zine culture), Manual is interested in publishing as a way to share ideas, demystify process and spark curiosity.
Manual was founded by Craighton Berman—a designer with work in the permanent collection of the Art Institute of Chicago and the first person to use Kickstarter to launch a product. Manual embodies this spirit of D.I.Y. and creativity through slow design.
