WHERE IT ALL BEGAN
Four by Four Clothing
2016
On 04.04.2016, close friends Tom Tamboer and Timo Hietkamp founded Four by Four in a small 4×4 meter room. What started as a creative idea between two friends quickly grew into a shared vision of building a meaningful clothing brand.
Tom, self-taught in design, took the lead on the creative side, while Timo handled the business operations. The brand’s concept was built around the number 4, a symbol of structure, creativity, and balance. The original logo was inspired by two mirrored 4s, and the handwritten typography came from Tom’s grandmother, who proudly tattooed the brand’s signature “F” on her back.
The first drop included t-shirts, caps, and tote bags produced in Pakistan. Although production started small and came with challenges, every step became part of the learning process that shaped the foundation of what OFUR is today.
2017
In 2017, Four by Four hosted its first pop-up store in Groningen, attracting a big crowd and marking its first real breakthrough. That same year, a collaboration with KOPJEK led to the iconic Paracetamol T-shirt and opened the door to more creative partnerships.
The team shifted production closer to home, focusing on quality and consistency. Testing fabrics, improving fits, and refining details became the new standard.
A standout moment came when Malik Yusef, a Grammy-winning artist known for his work with Kanye West, Beyoncé, and Drake, discovered the brand online. A collaboration followed, resulting in a limited-edition crewneck that sold in both the United States and the Netherlands.
After Timo stepped back for personal reasons, Jesse van der Laan joined as a new partner, bringing fresh energy and perspective. Around the same time, Jurick Peney, Mike Molenhuis, and Jordy van Wijhe contributed to the brand’s creative direction and visual storytelling. A partnership with Roodkopje, a Groningen-based music collective, followed, creating event merchandise that connected fashion, music, and culture.
2018
Driven by growth and higher standards, Four by Four began producing custom-fit t-shirts and long sleeves in Serbia. This decision marked a major step forward in quality and craftsmanship.
A highlight that year came when Kraantje Pappie performed at Vliegende Vrienden van Amstel Live wearing the black numeric t-shirt. A moment that captured the brand’s growing cultural relevance.
2019
At a pop-up store in De Uurwerker, the team met Jacob Kuiper, a talented graphic designer who soon joined the brand. His creative input helped elevate the design direction and overall presentation.
The collaboration with Hullaballoo Festival became another milestone. With performances from artists like Craig David, Lost Frequencies, and Klingande, Four by Four delivered official festival merchandise and hosted an on-site pop-up. A huge success that strengthened the brand’s visibility.
2020
In 2020, Four by Four moved into the Pudding Fabriek, a creative hub in Groningen. There, a collaboration with production company Flink resulted in the brand’s first professional video, further solidifying its visual identity.
2021
As the brand evolved, so did its ambitions. The founders launched Vier Studio, a creative agency focused on brand identity and design. Balancing the agency with the clothing brand proved challenging, and Four by Four temporarily slowed down.
The COVID-19 pandemic and Tom’s burnout added more obstacles, but these moments became turning points. Times to reflect, learn, and rebuild with a stronger foundation.
2022
With Jacob and Jesse focusing on Vier Studio, Tom decided to fully return to his passion for clothing. Together with his brother Jasper Tamboer and close friend Rick Boendermaker, he began rebuilding Four by Four from the ground up, setting the stage for a major rebranding.
FACING HEAT AFTER THE REBRAND
Four by Four Clothing
2023
The rebrand became the catalyst for a new era. The logo was refined, a new wordmark introduced, and Mr. Lucky made his debut as a recognizable brand element. A new website launched, and nearly all new products were designed and produced locally at Kleerlijk in Groningen, where Tom also worked to deepen his knowledge of fabrics, cuts, and production techniques.
The brand expanded its range beyond basics, introducing pants and shorts, creating complete outfits for the first time.
A standout partnership with Monkey Shoulder. A global whisky brand brought even more visibility. Over 50 ambassadors received full OFUR outfits, and the launch event was a massive success.
However, shortly after the brand’s most successful pop-up to date, Four by Four received a name infringement notice. Instead of letting it slow them down, the team saw it as an opportunity to evolve. What could have been a setback became the turning point. The moment the brand’s true identity began to take shape.
With help from friend Merijn Binnekamp, a new name was born: OFUR. The logo was designed by Mart Biemans, marking the beginning of a new chapter.
The team credits much of their progress to the creative community in Groningen and to the loyal supporters who have been part of the journey since day one.
It ain’t over when it’s OFUR.
OVERCOME ALL, RISE BEYOND
OFUR
2024
A new era. A new name. A new energy.
OFUR — pronounced OVER officially launched in January 2024, backed by eight years of experience, lessons, and persistence. The rebranding video, produced by HARD from Groningen, introduced the next phase of the brand to the world.ew name together with a video, produced by HARD from Groningen.
Production is now fully outsourced to top-tier factories abroad, ensuring premium quality and complete control over customization. These are the same facilities used by leading Dutch streetwear brands.
OFUR also upgraded its logistics and automation, moving fulfillment to Veendam. Orders placed before 21:00 in the Netherlands are shipped the same day, with next-day delivery guaranteed.
The first steps into retail were taken through partnerships with Klup De Dag in Groningen and Leeuwarden, followed by MATE in Almelo, founded by Mark and Tess. Their belief in the brand helped OFUR establish its first retail footprint.
The future looks bright. With an ever-growing community, powerful collaborations, and a clear creative vision, OFUR continues to rise stronger, sharper, and more focused than ever.
OVERCOME ALL. RISE BEYOND.
