Meet David Reiss — founder, owner, and designer behind MATCH, a collection of handmade Italian pewter rooted in centuries-old tradition. A graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design, David’s long-standing love for Italy and its artisan culture inspired him to launch MATCH in 1995.
Guided by a deep respect for classic design, he continues to create pieces from various materials that honor techniques passed down through generations. We’re excited to now carry a few of these beauties at Shoppe — namely the Match Box, Soap Dispenser, Vanity Tray, and Scalloped Coaster. We sat down with David to chat all things craftsmanship and business. Keep reading to follow along! x
Image courtesy of Shoppe Amber Interiors
Image courtesy of Shoppe Amber Interiors
a conversation with David…
1
Let’s start from the beginning! Can you tell us about the journey that led to the creation of MATCH?
I was working as a buyer & in-store graphic designer for a shop in New York City, but wondering what my next step was going to be. I was having dinner with a good friend in the industry, and she suggested I become a manufacturer. I have a life-long love of handmade goods (my Mom used to run a big craft show every year), I knew I wanted to work with crafts people, or people making things by hand. I had recently fallen in love with Italy, so that seemed like a natural place to start. As a buyer, I had purchased a beautiful line of Italian pewter at the Florence gift show, and proposed that we start a business relationship. That was over thirty years ago now!
2
Can you explain the story behind the name of your business, MATCH?
I wanted a company name that didn’t pigeonhole what we could do. I’ve always liked the word ‘match’; I played soccer and tennis, and each round is played as a ‘match’, not a game. I like the magazine Paris-Match, as well. It is a word everyone uses just about every day. It also fit the idea of placing the right product in the right store.
3
You studied at Rhode Island School of Design. How has your educational background shaped the creative direction of your business?
You studied at Rhode Island School of Design. How has your educational background shaped the creative direction of your business?
What an interesting question! I studied graphic design at RISD, and worked as a graphic designer for 12 years. One of my freelance jobs was designing the graphics that go on top of skis, or ‘cosmetics’ as they are known in the industry. I loved the idea that what I created was a distinctive design going on to a product people would actually use and enjoy. I very much liked being involved with the actual product. Fast-forward to today, and designing product is my favorite role at MATCH.
4
How would you explain the relationship between time-honored techniques and innovation in the craft? How are the two brought together to create products that simultaneously respect tradition while embracing thoughtful evolution?
Design is how I respect tradition. Manufacturing techniques have changed dramatically since the days where every single step was done by hand. There are aspects of manufacturing where it makes perfect sense to incorporate modern aspects of technology, to do certain early steps much faster, while still respecting the handmade nature of the product. Take a pitcher for example…each pitcher is made of four or five pieces cast using modern technology, but all of the assembly and finishing of the pitcher is done entirely by hand.
5
Pewter is a material with a long and storied history. What makes it so special to work with, and what do people misunderstand about it?
Pewter is a material with a long and storied history. What makes it so special to work with, and what do people misunderstand about it?
My first experience with pewter was with “Colonial Williamsburg pewter.” The tankards and bowls, specifically. But, I didn’t like it. When I found Italian handcast pewter at a little trade show in Florence, I couldn’t believe it was pewter! It had a warmth and weight that is special. In Italy, I heard a great quote, “Every material has a soul. Pewter has an old soul.” There has always been this misperception that pewter is synonymous with any inexpensive white metal that isn’t silver. But MATCH has worked hard to change this way of thinking. Pewter is a specific alloy, and has to be at least 92% tin. After solid sterling silver, high quality tin is the most valuable metal. It’s 3 times more valuable than copper! MATCH pewter is lead-free and food safe. Thinking it all contains lead is a common misconception. Our pewter alloy has been food-safe for decades.
6
What advice would you share with other founders who want to build a craft-centered brand?
What advice would you share with other founders who want to build a craft-centered brand?
Know the brand identity you want your company to project and stick with it!
7
What’s next for MATCH? Any aspirations for the future of the brand?
Continuing to design beautiful and functional pewter pieces, and to strengthen the foundation of our new ceramic and glass lines. Also, I will always be willing to entertain the possibility of working with new materials! Any ideas for me?
Image courtesy of Ellen Silverman
rapid fire with David…
1
Favorite place to visit to spark inspiration?
The Bargello in Florence.
2
A piece you’re most proud of?
The Convivio Dinner Plate!
3
Favorite Italian city?
Florence.
4
Favorite space in your home?
The dining room table.
5
Quote or mantra you live by?
“I am still learning.” – Michelangelo, age 85
Pewter Soap Dispenser
$250
Pewter Vanity Tray
$267
Scalloped Pewter Coaster
$80
Pewter Match Box with Striker
$201
Convivio Dinner Plate
$156
Covered Butter Dish
$313
Garlic Bread Plate
$132
Prato Candlestick
$163
