Jakes Story The Launch of Patina VW
How It Started
Patina VW began as a small idea fueled by a big passion. I’ve always loved the classic Volkswagen scene, especially the modified side of it that really took off in the late 80s. Over the years a few companies made merch for this niche but recently it felt like no one was offering anything new. The designs were either too simple or just didn’t match the modern style that people are into now.
When I was 17 I started creating my own designs—unique artwork inspired by the VW scene. I worked part time in retail while also going to college and used what I earned to fund the project myself. It wasn’t easy but I was determined to get it off the ground.
Taking the First Big Step
After turning 18 and selling a few shirts and stickers through the winter I decided it was time to take a bigger step. I saved up and spent more than a month’s wages on printing new designs and booking a stall at a major event in Henley-on-Thames. It was my first time setting up a trade stand and I wanted to make it count. That day marked the first time Patina VW was seen in person by the wider VW community.
The Turning Point
At the same time I was back at IRUN for my second year of college work experience. I mentioned my business and the team there offered something I didn’t expect. They gave me the chance to build my own e-commerce site during my placement. For someone who had always wanted a professional website but couldn’t afford one this was a huge opportunity.
With the help of the team at IRUN I managed to get the site up and running in just a week. Every time I got stuck they were there to help me through it. The final result is a clean modern site that not only works well but looks exactly how I imagined it would.
What the Website Changed
Having a proper online store has completely changed how people see Patina VW. Before it was just a small project run from my bedroom. Now it feels like a real business. The website gives customers more confidence and makes the whole brand feel more professional. It’s also allowed me to reach more people beyond just local events.
The site has modern features and a layout that makes browsing and ordering simple and smooth. It’s a massive step forward and I couldn’t have done it without IRUN’s support.
Looking Ahead
Patina VW is still in its early days but the progress so far has been amazing. From designing in my free time to launching a full website and selling at live events it’s been a journey I’m proud of. I’m incredibly thankful to the team at IRUN for helping make this possible and for pushing me further than I could’ve gone on my own.
This is just the beginning. There’s still so much more I want to do with the brand and now with the right tools in place I’m excited to see where
Jake is a student from Abingdon and Witney college who has come to us with a desire to gain experience within the workplace. We then allowed Jake to create his own website on our high level security servers. Jake is studying Digital design Production and Development, and looks to increase his portfolio of computing skills with IRUN.
