back to blog

The Brik Started as a Lost-Key Problem

1w ยท source

Original post opener: Four years ago, I kept losing my wallet and dorm keys. At Iowa State, replacing a lost dorm key cost $160, so I decided to build a better solution.

Four years ago, I kept losing my wallet and dorm keys. At Iowa State, replacing a lost dorm key cost $160, so I decided to build a better solution.

I started learning CAD and got into 3D printing and laser cutting. The goal was simple: combine a wallet, key holder, and tracking card into one product. The first prototype was made out of cardboard.

I spent the next four years iterating on the design while studying computer science. What started as a personal project slowly turned into something people wanted to buy.

Three months ago, I began working with a manufacturer in China to produce the version I had always envisioned: metal. This week, after navigating manufacturing, logistics, and a 91% tariff on the shipment, the first batch of 200 metal units arrived.

The Metal Brik is now officially ready for sale.

Buy yours today at the-brik [dot] com!