BadKneesTees

HISTORY 

 Jim Beck, The owner of “BadKnees” started out teaching at Martinsville High school for 11 years.  He enjoyed making T-shirts as a hobby in his basement. When he worked as a teacher there was a clock that had the words "FOCUS" that sparked his idea to put it on a shirt. Unfortunately, Jim didn't have the proper gear to actually start a business. Although he loved to teach and loved his students, it had become too difficult since Covid started, so he decided to leave. A

fter leaving, he wanted to pursue his passion of shirt printing. He had bought used tools to start out. He decided on a name “BadKnees” since he used to have a band called “BadKnees” during the same time he was learning how to screen print. Although Jim Beck started his business in his basement, only 4 years later they moved into an official building in Bloomington. He decided to stay in Bloomington because he had already had a connection with the community.

ROLE IN THE COMMUNITY

While walking around Bloomington, it's almost impossible to see someone without a BadKnees T’s. At “BadKnees,” they sell all original items including funny shirts, sweatshirts, accessories, tote bags, hats, pants, and many more. They even make custom printing. Jim Beck loves to have humor, quirkyness, & his own personal approach to the things he creates. They also rely on production partners for the things he creates like Sticker Mule & Amsterdam Printing. 

BadKnees holds events they call “Market Experiments” in the parking lot of BadKnees, for the community. The Market Experiments feature live music, food trucks, artist vendors, and craft games. They even do free T-shirt printing with your own shirt. It also allows for artists to sell their art as vendors, and they allow for musicians to play music. The Market Experiments happen once a month on Saturdays.

“BadKnees” also gives back to the community by supporting teachers, local musicians, local artists, Templeton Fundraiser, local shops, & many more. Badknees sells all kinds of inspirational shirts, Barbie designs, the infamous Focus Cat, and designs that spread awareness about school funding and ICE. 

People feel community, connection, & also self expression. They also describe it as a local business that brings joy to the community, & they work to bring a strong involvement for the community.