Wax, Shred, Repeat: Inside the World of Sketti Butta
Get ready to dive into the rad world of Sketti Butta, the skateboarding Wax brand straight outta Northamptonshire, England. In this interview, founder Barry tells us about his early beginnings of Sketti Butta during the first COVID lockdown, when he and his crew were on the hunt for new spots to shred. Find out how they cooked up their awesome name and the killer logo came together. We'll also get the lowdown on their premium skate wax, how they distribute it, and what keeps him going and motivated. So, join us as we chat with Berry and hear what's in store for the future of Sketti Butta.
What a fun brand; how did it all get started?
During the first COVID lockdown, we were forced to find new spots to skate. We found an old shoe factory in the sessions that followed. That’s really where the ideas came together.
What does the name mean?
Sketti Butta comes out of the DIY building sessions. My son was watching South Park (the Honey Boo Boo episode). Her favorite food is sketti and butter. Later that day, I watched the Shane Heyl episode of The Nine Club, and he mentioned the red guttaaa, so I put it all together: Sketti Butta.
Did you design the logo yourself?
No, George Bogdis, my friend, came up with it. We met at Crowhill skatepark park. We got chatting. I had no idea George was a graphic designer. The next thing you know, he sent me the most amazing logo.
What’s your background?
Born and raised in Plymouth, Devon, moved to Northampton 1997 ish.
I now live in Rushden, Northamptonshire, with my wife and two kids.
In terms of performance, what makes Sketti Butta stand out as a premium skate wax option?
The quality of the ingredients I use is the best quality waxes and scents. And through trial and error, I have a formula that I like. It’s more to me than making wax.
How do you distribute your products?
I’ve been lucky to have a friend who runs Illicit skate shop. We started there, and from there, Native, Three Amigos, and OG Distribution have been amazing in helping get the wax into UK skate shops. I’m stoked by the support from everyone.
Do you sell outside of the UK?
Not really, I should do that. I need to work out the logistics of it.
Does Brexit affect your business, since the UK is no longer part of the EU?
Yes, it’s totally confusing.
What marketing channels does Sketti Butta use?
Mainly Instagram.
How did you build a community?
You have to support the youngers in the community. I haven’t built a community. We’re all friends.
Do you have a loyal customer base?
The best!
Who's on your team?
We don’t have a team as such. It seems to be organically taking care of itself. Big up everyone.
Where do you produce your products?
The wax I make at home in my workshop.
Success stories about Sketti Butta?
Making a wax Block for Blast Skates for the Nassquicks board release. I'm still stoked about that.
Biggest struggle as a small brand?
Budget.
Who’s your biggest supporter?
My wife.
Any plans to expand Sketti Butta's product line?
We have some exciting things in the pipeline. Collaborating with other Brands, there’s some good stuff coming.
How do you keep yourself motivated every day?
Coffee.
Your favorite product you've ever made?
Heisenbutta was a good one, but I do like my target T.
Biggest future goal for the brand?
Keep going more collaborations and go overseas.
Follow Sketti Butta on Instagram @sketti_butta and shop Sketti Butta online at Skettibutta.com.
