NoSo’s foundation is in sustainability and it’s no wonder that our product maintains its status as the go-to repair option for all kinds of apparel and clothing applications. Whether you’re patching your favorite down puffy for an upcoming ski trip, or you’re fixing up a stylish denim jacket for going out on the town, our patches quite literally have your back!
But one thing that makes NoSo patches so unique is that they’re not just for repairing. When you put a patch on any piece from your closet it’s an expression of you: your flavor, your style.
That’s why we’re always on the lookout for amazing artists who visually express themselves in unique and creative ways, whose work turns heads and lets people show off their style loud and proud! And goodness, did we strike gold with our latest partnership: Rachel Kozlowski.
Today, we’re featuring our Q&A with Rachel so you can get to know her process, style, and understand why we’re so excited to now offer her patch designs in partnership with NoSo.
Who are you, and what kind of magic do you make?
Hi, I’m Rachel Kozlowski, the creative mind behind RKartwork. My work centers on animals, celebrating their unique adaptations and the habitats in which they thrive. Through an anthropomorphic lens, I infuse my portraits with wit and whimsy, inviting viewers to connect with and appreciate the natural world.
Why did you decide to patch the planet with us? We’re blushing already.
I’ve always believed in taking care of the places that take care of us—and patching up what we already have feels like a love letter to the planet.
Got a favorite piece of gear you’ll be patchdazzling up with your patch line?
I’ve got a puffy jacket that’s been well-loved (and well-torn) from hiking and camping around Utah — it’s ready for a little functional flair!
What’s your power color—the one that shows up in your work (or wardrobe) again and again?
As someone who grew up on the East Coast, moving to Utah almost felt like landing on Mars. Even though I’m based in the Salt Lake area, I’m endlessly drawn to the colors of the desert. Whenever I wear dusty orange, I can practically feel the warmth of the sun.
What’s your ride-or-die tool when you’re making art?
As a lefty, my go-to tool is definitely a pile of scrap paper. I save every misprint to use under my hand — a simple trick to save my drawings from the dreaded smudge.
What sparks your creativity? Where does your inspiration come from?
A lot of my ideas come from the wild little moments — a bird ruffling up its feathers, a jackrabbit darting through the sagebrush, or the colors that show up right before sunset.
Is there one piece of art you’ve made that makes you go, ‘Yep, that’s so me’? Tell us why. What makes it special?
My bandanas feel the most “me” because they combine so many of my passions — the outdoors, textiles, art, and function. They’re pieces meant to be used, worn, and loved out in the wild, which feels like the perfect reflection of what inspires me.
What’s your favorite part of your creative process? Is it the brainstorm, the mess, or that ‘nailed it’ moment?
My favorite part is adding the little details — the quirks and textures that bring each animal to life. I love weaving in bits of their habitat, behavior, or even what they eat. Add a playful pun, and it genuinely makes me smile.
How has your art (and biz!) evolved? Tell us your evolution story. What have you learned along the way?
My art and business have evolved by becoming more and more authentic to the things I truly love — animals, nature, and the outdoors. The more I create from that place of passion, the more naturally everything seems to fall into place. I’ve learned that staying true to what excites you is what keeps the work meaningful.
What’s your go-to way to get outside and play?
I like to keep the adventure going year-round — hiking, camping, kayaking, and paddle boarding in the summer, then swapping it all out for cross-country skis and snowshoes once the snow flies.
If you could stick a NoSo Patch anywhere in the world—gear, place, person, idea—where would it go, and why?
I’d stick it in Tanzania. I was fortunate enough to travel there for a wildlife photography program in college, and it completely deepened my love for animals and the natural world. Spending time with the Hadzabe and Maasai people gave me a new appreciation for those who truly respect and protect their land. NoSo patches feel like a beautiful way to honor that same spirit of conservation.
How Do You NoSo?
Feeling inspired to add some flair to your favorite gear? Want to scope out the NoSo Patches designed and created by Lisa? Then check out the Rachel Kozlowski line on our online store!