If you use deadstock fabrics, you’re going to need to take a different approach to designing and developing new styles. Knowing your fabric is important for development, but when using deadstock, the process looks a bit different. Let’s break it down.
In episode 88, textile sourcing rep Jay Arbetman of The Sourcing District walks us through how to source wholesale fabric for your independent fashion brand – even in low quantities. Jay shares insights on fabric quality, sustainable fibers, and how to not spend months on your fabric search. With decades in the business, Jay knows […]
Mixing fabrics or prints within the same garment is a fun way to add a unique twist, interesting texture, or creative design detail to your style. But, beyond patchworking a beautiful design, mixing fabrics in a way that is efficient in production and holds up to consumer use, takes some technical planning to get right.
Measurements are found all over within the fashion industry and fabrics are no exception. Whether you are looking at a Bill of Materials, ordering fabric or swatches online, or doing some fabric testing, understanding how fabrics are measured and listed will help you make the best choices regarding your fabric.
Despite the lack of physical samples to touch and feel at a virtual show, though, virtual sourcing is totally possible and doesn’t have to be daunting. Here’s my step by step guide to navigating a virtual sourcing trade show before, during, and after the show.
You’d be surprised how different the same design can be in different fabrics. I know this, and it still surprises me sometimes. The fabric has a big effect on the final garment. It dictates not only the look but also the fit and technical construction. Let’s look at how fabric affects each of these areas.
You are missing out if you’ve never been to a The Fabric Shows (formerly DG Expo). The Fabric Shows are wholesale sourcing trade shows catering to small brands with vendors that offer low-minimums and in-stock programs. The show offers so much and here’s why I think every small fashion brand should attend.
The right print can make a garment a showstopper. Designing printed apparel isn’t as easy as picking out a print and having the fabric made into your garment though. There are things to watch out for to make sure the print flatters your design and the wearer as well as stays within your budget.
The Bill of Materials page (called the BOM) is a chart that shows all the materials that go into your design. The BOM not only lists the fabrics, but shows all the trims, closures, thread, hangtags, labels, and packaging materials – everything you need to make the style start to finish.
Sourcing and buying fabric as an apparel brand is very different from purchasing fabric as a retail customer. As an apparel brand, you’ll want to find fabric suppliers that provide wholesale pricing and fabric continuity. Depending on your brand’s size and what fabric you need, you have different options available to you for buying fabric.
