Today we’d like to introduce you to Julio Cesar Falu.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Julio. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I’m originally from Carolina, Puerto Rico where I did my Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Arts at the University of Puerto Rico−Carolina. Then I moved to Wisconsin where I finished my Master’s Degree in Graphic Design at the University of Wisconsin−Madison. In 2004, I moved to Miami and began to work as a Communications Specialist at Aon Consulting, were I won my first national design award.
After several years, I was a freelance graphic designer for the Creative Group, and later began to work at a local company named TUUCI.
Currently I’m a full-time graphic design faculty at the Miami International University of Art & Design (Art Institute) and also founder of OneLevel Studios, an online specialty print studio that specializes in custom printing and 3D printing services. I’ve won two American Design Awards from GD USA Magazine, in 2014 for Publication Design and in 2016 for a 3d printed Corporate Identity Design. This fall we are about to publish our first eBook on 3D Printing and a workshop series next year.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Well when I started, I just wanted to design cool stuff and make extra income for myself. The business grew steady for a few years until I opened my first actual studio in the Wynwood area. We had all the printing equipment and hired a few people, but had to close it after six months because of financial reasons, where our rent was tripled. The struggle has been interesting, and has help me find my way and learn how to solve problems that come up every day.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about OneLevel Studios – what should we know?
OneLevel Studios is an online specialty print studio that specializes in unique printing applications. Our collection of printed pieces consists of finishes and papers offered in a large collection of weights, sizes, colors, and even textures and patterns. As for our 3d printing services, we offer specialty materials such as plastics, flexible rubber, wood and metal blends for all types of projects. What set us apart is that we have experience in the field, we have great resources and partners to fulfill most of the requests by our clients.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
A mentor is an important part for any professional or entrepreneurial career. I’ve had many mentors throughout the years, but two that have really made an impact on the way I see products, branding, and service is Roland Garcia founder of Original Impressions one of the largest commercial printers in Florida and Dougan Clark founder of TUUCI International, a manufacturer of high end parasols. Both have started their business from scratch and have been there to give me any advice and support I’ve needed to keep my business growing.
Contact Info:
- Website: OneLevel Studios LLC
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: instagram.com/onelevelstudios
- Facebook: facebook.com/onelevelstudios
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