About us

What began as Signs by MiCo—Michele Barden’s hand-painted wooden signs celebrating the towns and shores of Massachusetts—has grown into a family workshop where wood, rope, cloth, and engraved goods come together in coastal inspired craft.

Odd Cod is powered by Michele and her husband Gary, who together bring each design to life in different ways. Michele creates the original artwork and paints each wooden sign by hand. Gary hand-screens those same designs onto apparel and runs the laser engraver to etch them into ornaments, boards, and barware. Side by side, they also tie every ropework piece—from wreaths to bracelets—keeping maritime knotwork traditions alive.

As trained cartographers/geographers, we’ve always been drawn to the concept of place. Place, of course, can be a specific location on a map. However, it is also defined by the stories, traditions, and shared experiences associated with that location. That perspective shapes everything we create, whether it’s a sign with a town’s historic name, a cutting board engraved with local coordinates, or an ornament that celebrates a beloved harbor. Every piece reflects a mapmaker’s eye for detail and a deep connection to the North Shore.

Odd Cod is more than a name—it’s a reflection of our belief that character matters. Each piece is a unique, one-of-a-kind, and full of the spirit of coastal New England.

Made by hand. Inspired by the coast. Always crafted with care.