Customer Spotlight: Robert Masoner

Bernese Mountain Dogs are big-hearted working dogs, with a taste for adventure. Even so, Robert Masoner is the first to admit they aren’t cut out for a life at sea.

That’s what makes his custom patches for the “Bernese Mountain Sailing Co.” funny.

“The idea is intentionally absurd: Bernese Mountain Dogs are gentle, land-loving working dogs that would probably make terrible sailors. The Bernese Mountain Dog Sailor patch was created as a lighthearted design that doesn't take itself too seriously,” he said. “The patch celebrates the spirit of adventure with a bit of self-deprecating humor, imagining an enthusiastic but completely unqualified canine crewmember setting off to sea.”

There’s actually no such thing as the Bernese Mountain Sailing Company, but there is a real dog behind the patch. Meet Leia:

“I don’t really have an organization,” Masoner said. My wife and I happen to have a Bernese Mountain Dog who is a character, and we enjoy making custom Berner designs.”

When Masoner and his wife wanted to create custom patches with their design, a Google search led him to our Patches4Less division. We were able to turn the design into a 4” woven patch with iron-on backing.

The patch’s depiction of a happy looking Berner wearing an anchor-adorned bandana aboard a sailboat is just about guaranteed to raise a smile. The tag line, “Mountain Dog, Ocean Soul,” sounds like it could be the title of a Jimmy Buffett song.

“The artwork is meant for fellow sailors, dog lovers, and anyone who appreciates playful designs that spark conversation” Masoner said. “Rather than representing a formal company or organization, it is simply a creative, tongue-in-cheek illustration. The goal is to make people smile and not to be taken too seriously.”

While Masoner had ordered products from other patch providers before, our customer service won him over. “I had a few questions and you were helpful and quick to respond.”  For example, he originally envisioned an embroidered patch. Our experienced staff recommended a switch to a woven style instead, to allow greater detail in the design. The result was a doggone good patch. We have word that Leia approves.

“I am having them put on blank shirts,” Masoner said. “We are using them for Christmas gifts, as well to make some custom stuff for people.

We’re always happy to create pup-related patches. We even have a couple of doggies who come into the office occasionally, to get the attention, pets and treats they deserve.

Thank you Robert, for your confidence in TJM. When Bernese Mountain Dogs are ready to set sail, count us in. We might not be as qualified as a Berner, but we do know how to dog paddle! We look forward to serving you – and Leia – for all your custom patch needs in the future.