Stitch Preview: Austinist interviews Burgers and Friends

What is your design background?

I graduated with a degree in sociology. It didn't really prepare me for a career in design. My designs are 70% luck and 30% cheating.

We heard something about a successful booth you had at a Las Vegas trade show, where Japanese buyers ordered thousands of your wallets. Are you big in Japan now?

Probably. The Japanese find hamburgers really funny for some reason. More than 50% of my sales in Vegas are to Japan. Too bad I can never understand what they're saying. I only speak Galactic basic.

Tell us about your obsession with Star Wars?

You and I should play Star Wars Trivial Pursuit and all your questions will be answered. I went to LA over the summer for (Star Wars) Celebration IV. Girls in gold bikini's will always have a place in my heart. I heard that Harry Potter is the new Star Wars.

Based on your designs and cute backpacks, do you ever feel like a child living in an adult's body?

If making my future ex-wife watch Ninja Turtles with me every night makes me a child, then I guess so. The designs aren't intended to be cute. Why does everyone find fast-food so funny?

Where do you get your inspiration?

I try not to put burgers on everything. Jim Henson and George Lucas help me stay the course.

You started off as two, correct? Are there any more people helping you?

I've always just been one. Unless you count Jesus, which I don't. Girlfriends are a good source for cheap labor. I guess you could say I "love" my employees.

The backpacks are new. Are there going to be any other new surprises at this year's Stitch?

My brother might show up. That's always surprising to me. If you like wizards, dark crystals or Donald Trump, I'd probably come by my booth.

Stitch
Saturday, November 10
Austin Convention Center, Hall I (500 E. Cesar Chavez St.)
Doors Open: 4 p.m. / Fashion Show: 9:30 p.m
[Tickets]: $10 (available at the door)