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When Misen set out to fund its affordable, top-quality chef’s knife on Kickstarter, it brought in over $1 million. Now, having launched a second Kickstarter campaign for premium stainless steel cookware, the Brooklyn-based start-up is hoping that lightning will strike twice. Relying on the same direct-to-consumer model that Misen applied to its knives, the cookware is backed by in-depth research and cutting-edge craftsmanship — the product of 18 months of research and development.
“As with any new product design, it starts with a ton of research: getting a sense of what is available now, seeing what works and what doesn’t from a consumer-facing perspective, and then backing into the actual engineering, manufacturing and economic issues of product development,” explains Misen founder Omar Rada. “Before we even start designing an item, we try to get as many insights on engineering and production constraints as possible. That then informs the initial design process, and thereafter it’s an iterative process — very much a ‘measure twice, cut once’ mentality.”
The new line will comprise 10- and 12-inch skillets, 3- and 6-quart sautés, 2- and 3-quart sauciers (a saucepan with tapered edges) and an 8-quart sauce pot, available for purchase individually or in sets starting at $225. Constructed from 3mm stainless steel, the cookware is built for even heat distribution, with ergonomic, stay-cool handles and rounded edges for drip-free pouring.
Misen’s skillets are slated to ship before the end of the year and will start at $65 for a 10-inch pan (for comparison, All-Clad’s fry pan of the same size runs $100), with the rest of the collection launching in early 2018.
