Notebook with drawings from the new GORNATION anime collection and GORNATION athlete wearing an anime T-Shirt

From Sketch to reality - How the anime collection was created

With the new Anime Collection, we didn’t just drop high-quality training wear – we brought a passion project to life. In this article, we’ll take you behind the scenes and show you how the collection came to life, step by step – from the first sketch to the final drop.

1. First sketches – From idea to paper, March 2024

Before we even thought about producing the collection, it all started with pen and paper. We chose a classic approach to bring our first ideas to life without pressure. It wasn’t about technical details yet – just pure creativity.

Our goal was to design unique anime characters that people can truly relate to. They should reflect the core values of calisthenics – discipline, focus, and strength. Sketch by sketch, the vision turned into something real.

First drawings of the new GORNATION anime collection

2. Refining the vision, May 2024

Once we were happy with the sketches, we took the next step and brought everything into digital form. Line by line, the characters evolved. What outlines give off power? What colors create the mood we want? How can we keep the style consistent and still give every character a unique look?

Technical aspects started to play a bigger role, too. We tweaked the colors, shadows, and contrast until the characters felt alive. Slowly, the new collection started to take shape.

Picture shows how the drawings were optimized and how details were added

3. Test prints & quality check, August 2024

Just like the design, the quality of the Anime Collection had to be on point. As athletes, we know how important a good feel and durable fabric are. The prints need to hold up – even during heavy workouts or weighted sessions with the Dip Belt or a Weight Vest. No compromises.

It took a few rounds to get everything just right – but in the end, we knew: this feels exactly how it should.

The first print of the new GORNATION anime collection

4. Athlete & team feedback, November 2024

At GORNATION, we don’t just rely on our own opinion – we wanted to gather as many impressions as possible. That’s why our athletes tested the Anime Collection and shared their honest feedback with us.

Their insights were super helpful. Based on their feedback, we made a few final tweaks – and then the collection was ready for launch.

GORNAITON athlete looks at the new GORNATION anime collection giving feedback

5. Shooting in Münster, June 2025

Now it was time to bring the Anime Collection to life. The shoot took place in our hometown Münster – at different locations and in different moods. A mix of clean product shots and real training vibes. Inspired by our three core elements: Balance, Control, and Strength.

This shoot wasn’t just about showing the outfits – it was about the lifestyle behind them. Anime meets calisthenics.

GORNATION athlete is posing with the new anime collection in front of a camera

6. The final step – Drop goes live, July 2025

After months of hard work, it finally happened: the Anime Collection went live. For us, it marked the end of an intense project – and the launch proved one thing: every step was worth it. Your feedback was overwhelming and blew our expectations away.

Our mission was to create a collection that speaks to everyone in their own way. For some, it’s about memories of their first anime. For others, it stands for discipline and progress. And that’s what makes it so powerful – this collection isn’t just clothing. It’s a feeling.

Check out the Anime Collection:

 

Conclusion – More than just clothing

The Anime Collection is the result of creativity, passion, and a strong connection to the community. It’s made to give everyone the chance to write their own anime story – in their own way.

👉 Wanna know more about how it all started? Check out the full story here:
The story behind the Anime Collection

Phil profile picture

Phil

Hi, I’m Phil, the founder of GORNATION. I brought the brand to life in 2015 with a clear mission: to create a premium brand for Calisthenics, something that didn’t exist before. I live and breathe this sport, doing calisthenics myself since 2013. My vision is to unite 1 million people around the world through calisthenics, building a strong, supportive community. I'm happy that you're part of that!

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