Memories Sewn & Worn Proudly

By Tracey Moro / Photography by Mike Ferdinande

It’s funny how craft beer consumers are. Some are loyal to one brand and one brand only. They become a regular at their favorite place, and they try the new offerings but usually go back to their favorite go-to drink. Others want to ven- ture, going from place to place and trying new flavors. And then there are the die hards who set goals on trying new places and actually make time to travel around, celebrating their achievements.

These are the crafters who proudly wear their craft brands. The ones who purchase T-shirts, sweatshirts, mugs or hats. And then there are those few who buy patches and actually sew them on something.

This winter, while you’re venturing out to your favorite local brewery, look for Tige Washko, of Livonia. You won’t be able to miss him if he’s wearing his branded brewery jean jacket. With a large Alpha King Pale Ale patch centered on the backside surrounded by a slew of brand patches, one next to an- other, plus additional ones on the sleeves and front, Tige has patches from breweries he has visited throughout the United States.

Tige’s goal was to visit at least one brewery in every state, and add patches to his jacket. Having achieved his goal when we met him last spring, he added a good amount of Michigan patches, including a few you’ll find in our Local POUR directory.

As a craft beer drinker, Tige enjoys IPAs, barrel-aged and sours. After five years of traveling the U.S. seeking out breweries, he’s created a one-of-a-kind craft beer jacket that is sure to start some conversations.