Brendan Pape and Christian Harkson chose a challenging time to start a business, but they've survived and are ready to take that next step.

While still at Western Washington University, Pape and Harkson started Disidual Clothing in April 2010. Saddled with student loan debt, these two launched the company in an extremely difficult economic environment for start-ups.

The business, which focuses on screen-design prints on clothing, is making plans to manufacture its own fleece jacket that Pape says will bridge the gap between something you can wear casually around town as well as effectively protecting against the elements while doing outdoor hobbies. The company has started a $25,000 Kickstarter campaign to get the prototype to market.

"It was the last thing my parents wanted me to do," said Pape with a laugh, acknowledging that being a broke college student three years ago was a risky time to start a business. "I always wanted to design shirts, and we both have a passion for the outdoors."

The company started in Pape's bedroom, eventually moved into a garage and is now occupying a portion of a warehouse at 4208 Meridian St., formerly home to Erin Baker's Wholesome Baked Goods. The apparel products are in 15 local stores, including Western's bookstore.

"The bookstore really helped us out," Pape said. "When we started we weren't sure whether people would like it."

Starting at Western also gave them a chance to show their product to students, a key demographic of young people who enjoy the outdoors. It gave the owners a chance to get feedback while attending classes.

"It was hard to balance going to class with printing until 4 a.m.," Pape said. "Since graduation we've been working hard to get to the next level, but it's been hard to do without funding."

For details about the company or its Kickstarter campaign, visit disidual.com or its Facebook page.

OTHER TIDBITS

• A variety of projects were recently given permit approval in Bellingham, including the remodel of the Labels consignment store on James Street (near Trader Joe's), Krumbz Deli at Bakerview Square, the final improvements for Rocket Donuts in Fairhaven and the BevMo/United Furniture remodel at 110 W. Stuart Road, near Walmart.

• Several other projects in Bellingham continue to go through the application process, including the Soy House restaurant at 400 W. Holly St. (in the former Boss Tweed space), the $7 million remodel for Winco at the former Joe's Sporting Goods building at 300 E. Bellis Fair Parkway and Vinostrology, a wine bar going into 120 W. Holly St.

• CJ's Beach House Restaurant at 7878 Birch Bay Drive had its liquor license approved by the state liquor control board. Owner Jack Niemann is planning to have a soft opening for the restaurant on Thursday, Feb. 7.

Retail Tip Sheet runs each Sunday.

Reach Business Editor Dave Gallagher at 360-715-2269 or dave.gallagher@bellinghamherald.com. Read his business blog at blogs.bellinghamherald.com/business or follow him on Twitter at @bhamheraldbiz.