What’s a prototype and when do you need one?
This is the first of two posts; I've had several questions over the past few days on a specific aspect which I'll write about next. Most of the question about what is a prototype can be answered in my...
View ArticleI have a prototype but I don’t have a pattern
By definition (see the preceding entry), you cannot have a prototype if you don't have a pattern. It is impossible. I do not doubt you have a nicely constructed sample of what you envision your product...
View ArticleUsing interns or consultants for sourcing. Or, the blind leading the blinder
A new trend has emerged in that start ups and very small companies are using intermediaries like interns or consultants to make recommendations for pattern makers, technical designers, production etc....
View ArticleNEW! Wholesale fabric show, low minimums NY
You're hearing it here first, the first public announcement of a new wholesale fabric trade show designed specifically for independent designers who need to source low minimum fabrics, leathers, trims,...
View ArticleHow to search for clothing manufacturers
Rather late in the game, I've discovered flow charts. A recent post to the F-I Facebook page inspired this one on how to search for clothing manufacturers. Said one visitor (in response to my news that...
View ArticleHow much cash do you need to start a small clothing line?
On Quora, someone asked me how much cash do you need to start a small menswear label? I haven't responded over there yet, it was too long so I thought to post it here first. I frequently get variations...
View ArticleLike a puppy chasing a bus: Sourcing like big brands
Apologies for the title that a lot of people won't like either. Titles aren't my strong suit. But no mind, someone I'll call Art writes: I am trying to start up a small to medium sized clothing line...
View ArticleFashion mentors: free & good advice to start a clothing line
Circumstances dictate revisiting what mentoring means, and how to get good and free advice in starting your clothing line. As an aside, I thought "free" was implied in a mentoring relationship but that...
View ArticleWill your book help with non-fashion items?
I have returned from my trip and am slogging through emails. Speaking of which, I get this question a lot and thought to save myself some time by writing a post about it which I could then forward to...
View ArticleWhere and how do you start a design business?
The cut to the chase answer to the question of where and how do you start a design business depends on your goals. But first, this needs to be tied into last week's entry What kind of designer are you?...
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