Aaron Draplin

Aaron Draplin is an American graphic designer, entrepreneur, and author known for his contributions to contemporary graphic design, brand identity, and logo design. Draplin has developed a recognizable aesthetic characterized by simple, bold logos featuring thick black lines and vibrant color palettes. His work has shaped campaigns and branding for clients including Ford Motors, Nike, Patagonia, NASA, the United States Postal Service, and the Barack Obama administration. Draplin Design Co. (DDC), his Portland, Oregon–based studio, operates as a solo proprietorship, with Draplin personally overseeing all design work to maintain creative control and a consistent visual identity. The business focuses on commercial projects in typography, logo design, and brand development, as well as direct-to-consumer products.

After earning a design degree from the Minneapolis College of Art and Design, Draplin began his career designing snowboard graphics for Solid Snowboards and later served as art director at Snowboarder Magazine, where he received the Art Director of the Year Award from Primedia. He worked as a senior designer at Cinco Design Office before establishing DDC. Draplin’s client list includes Nike, Hot Wheels, Skillshare, Chris Stapleton, Tenacious D, and various government organizations.

Draplin co-founded Field Notes with Jim Coudal and Coudal Partners, creating a stationery brand recognized for its design and widespread availability in bookstores, cafes, and retail locations. He also designed the Star Ribbon U.S. postage stamp for the United States Postal Service, further establishing his influence in American graphic design.

His book, "Draplin Design Co.: Pretty Much Everything," published by Abrams, features case studies, design techniques, and over 500 images of logos, posters, and packaging. The volume explores his inspirations from vintage signage and Americana, as well as his approach to commercial and cultural design projects.

Draplin has delivered more than 580 public speaking engagements worldwide, including appearances on TED Talks and at Google, sharing insights on entrepreneurship, illustration, and workflow optimization in graphic design. He is also an instructor on Skillshare, teaching courses on customizing type, logo design, and merchandise design. Draplin received the Silver Service Award from Goodwin Graphics for his contributions to screen printing and graphic design during a keynote at the Imprinted Sportswear Show in Long Beach, California. Draplin’s career reflects a commitment to creative independence and the principles of effective design.