#small batch clothing manufacturers

[therahulseoblog]

Small Order Clothing Manufacturers | Wings2fashion

Wings2fashion is a leading small order clothing manufacturer in India. They offer a wide range of services, including custom design, pattern making, and sampling. Small order clothing manufacturers are companies that specialize in producing small batches of clothing, typically with minimum order quantities (MOQs) of less than 100 units. Small order clothing manufacturers are often more flexible than larger manufacturers, and they may be willing to work with you on custom designs or specifications.

Visit : https://www.wings2fashion.com/services/small-order-clothing-manufacturer/

[shivani1811]

Best Clothing Manufacturers For Small Order in India | wings2fashion

Wings2fashion offers a small order clothing manufacturer looking for a reliable partner to support you with your production needs? Look no further! With years of industry experience, we are here to offer you the highest quality products and services to keep your production running smoothly and efficiently. Our pursuit of excellence is second to none and we look forward to helping you achieve your goals. 

[fashiontouse]

Small Order Clothing Manufacturers USA – High Quality Garment

Small Order Clothing Manufacturers USA are companies that specialize in producing, designing, and manufacturing small batches of clothing. These manufacturers will typically require orders of several hundred or less garments and will provide smaller runs than larger clothing production companies. These small order manufacturers can specialize in a variety of materials and designs, including men’s, women’s and children’s clothing, along with loungewear, sportswear, athletic apparel and outerwear. Small order clothing manufacturers will often have specialized production processes to produce custom orders that meet customer requirements. Visit our website get to know more details.

[riddleapparel]

We are Professional Manufacturer of custom wear Clothing ( Fashion wear, Gym Wear, Sports, Wear & Fitness Wear). Nothing is Premade everything is done from scratch. We all set to produce your Brand’s collection.

WHY CHOOSE US? →

No Minimum Restriction →

Direct from Factory →

Rush Orders Available →

OEM Service Available →

FREE Artwork Designing →

Multiple Fabric Options →

Fast door to Door Delivery

• Secure and easy payment methods.

We do Sublimation, Embroidery, Screen Printing, Chenille embroider, Puff Print, 3D embroider, Tie Dye, Acid wash, Heat transfer Stickers, reflector Print and Silicone printing.

Riddle Apparel Garments Manufacturer Factory is here, which is providing our Customers reference from USA and Europe for your satisfaction and trust. Because reference is better than all reviews comments and any group verification

Get along with us to get the best experience Get in touch with us Email:riddleapparel@hotmail.com

[canonkiller]

sometimes I think about how fan made merch has changed in the last few years and like. I'll admit maybe it's a fable grapes situation at least in part (my limitations keeping me from getting into physical merch production) and I've done a few small things in my time (charms, stickers, I have a Redbubble, y'know) so I don't intend to be like preachy about it but it's like . man idk isn't there enough

like I get that shit's easier to make than ever. you get charms, standees, clothes, plushies, all pretty standardized decent quality, made to order, straight to home. but more and more I can't stop myself from feeling like too much has changed. there's a lot of difference between one person's handmade oven clay charms at the artist alleys of conventions close to them vs having a travel schedule to all the major meetups so you can set up a mass produced enamel pin booth at each one. this isn't even touching on the working conditions of the people who do have to make the actual items, or the ecological impact of that much shipping and plastic.

I don't know. I guess I just kind of wish people stuck to making what they can actually make rather than just being a storefront for some small batch manufacturer. I wish we could do more recycling. if you want a charm of your blorbo why not learn how to make one for yourself instead of buying one. idk

[positivexcellence]

towwn: hello sunshine 🌞! summer is in full swing, and there’s no better time to embrace the sundress. whether you casually slip it over a swimsuit or dress it up for a night out, shopping consciously is a chic way to do good by the planet + people who craft our clothes. swipe to find some of the prettiest ethical sundresses you’ll feel good – and look good! – wearing ‘til fall.

@current_air we love the multiple chambray frocks made of 100% lyocell, which reduces water usage while utilizing regenerated natural fibers. the co. only partners with ethical factories and all packaging materials are recycled + biodegradable.

@pítusa.co this ethical female-led brand employs female-operated ateliers in peru + india to craft its colorful, lightweight, beachy styles in small batches.

@sezane renowned for its commitment to sustainability, this b corp + mission-led brand makes timeless dresses with organic cotton, recycled water & laser detailing for people who respect the planet.

@reformation this eco-conscious fashion favorite uses sustainable materials like rescued deadstock, repurposed vintage fabric, silk + linen to craft gorgeous sundresses for all occasions.

@shopdoen these pretty, feminine frocks showcase a range of floral, striped + ruffled designs that take a responsible approach to sourcing + manufacturing. quality raw materials and women-owned-and-run, ethical global factories highlight the brand's commitment to a positive impact while creating lovely dresses.

@cuyana this latin american-founded, female-led brand reached 100% sustainability in 2022, and the celeb-fav has also pledged 100% carbon-neutral packaging by 2025.

@kotn inspired by a cotton farm community in egypt, kotn prides itself on a sustainable supply chain + educational partnership with locals in the nile delta. a high-impact north american b corp voted “best for the world,” we love their classic + comfy egyptian cotton & tencel sundress designs.

@seasidetones this collection of ethically crafted, sea-inspired dresses is handcrafted in poland + includes a maternity line. crafted with premium natural fibers, mainly pure baltic linen, the garments are durable and stay cool in the heat.

[crowlines]

are you planning on ever stocking XS? My boyfriend and I have always been big fans of your designs but smalls are too big for him :(

(I'm assuming this question is about shirts that aren't button ups since those do come in XS)

I'm open to it but as with all clothing, size range is dependent on demand. For screen printed shirts, this would mean switching the blank that I currently use (which is available in S-5XL). While it's possible to acquire a blank that is available in XS-5XL, I also have to consider factors like color availability, cost, inventory management/storage etc. Unfortunately I don't think I currently have a level of demand for XS that justifies me rearranging all of those logistics to include a 9th size. Size range is more negotiable for items that are sewn from scratch (i.e. color block shirts and sweatshirts) so I can consider that in future production if my manufacturer allows me to add a 9th size. I just finished production on a batch of color block shirts in my normal size range, which does not include XS, so it won't be happening immediately.

Ultimately, support and sales on existing sizes are always helpful in making it possible to expand a size range. More sales make more things possible.

[thedailytao]

Passage 61

A large country should take the low place like a great watershed, which from its low position assumes the female role. The female overcomes the male by the power of her position. Her tranquility gives rise to her humility.

If a large country takes the low position, it will be able to influence the small countries. If smaller countries take the lower position, then they can allow themselves to be influenced.

Large countries should desire to protect and help the people, and small countries should desire to serve others. Both large and small countries benefit greatly from humility.

These geopolitical passages can be hard to reimagine to the individual level. In this case, let’s translate this into a business concept instead: clothing manufacturing.

One clothing company is very large, with many stores and a huge factory. Their teams of designers work together and run ideas past multiple managers and executives before their designs can go to the factory. In the factory, specific production lines are created to churn out thousands of copies of a design, which are shipped out to the stores and advertised through identical signage used in every store.

The other clothing company is small, with just one shop and a sewing room in back where a small team of designer/seamstresses independently experiment and create unique items, which they personally sell and advertise in the store or online, one item at a time.

Now imagine there is a national shortage of cotton fabric. The small company will quickly run out, because they’re not large enough to keep a stockpile of fabrics. They may be benefited by going to the large company, which does keep huge stockpiles of fabric, and asking if they can purchase cotton fabric from them. How would it benefit the big company to agree?

Imagine the shortage goes on. The stockpile is used up. The big company has to redesign their product line for non-cotton. Their teams of designers are slow, and the approvals process drags on. Their factory has to be reconfigured to work with new fabrics. Big companies are bad at quick, agile reactions to disruption. The small company can adapt quickly. Their designers can experiment with new fabrics and find new designs to adapt to the problem.

Now the big company, which supported them before, might turn to them and ask for quick, small-batch designs to fill in their shortage. This is why those with power are better suited to support others, and those with less power are better suited to act.

[raheel05-blog]

How to Find the Best Denim Manufacturer for Small Clothing Brands: A Guide to Low-Quantity Production

Denim—it's the fabric that never goes out of style. From classic jeans to trendy jackets and skirts, denim has long been a staple in wardrobes worldwide. For emerging clothing brands looking to tap into the denim market, however, producing quality denim wear can be a challenge—especially when the goal is to start with low-quantity orders. Whether you’re based in the USA, UK, Australia, Canada, or Europe, finding the right denim manufacturer who can accommodate small batches while maintaining the quality and sustainability standards your brand stands for can make all the difference.

If you're wondering how to get started, here's a comprehensive guide on everything you need to know about denim manufacturing for small orders. Let’s break down what the process looks like, the benefits of low-quantity denim production, and how to partner with the right manufacturer for your brand’s success.

What Does Denim Manufacturing Involve?

Denim manufacturing isn't just about producing jeans. It's about creating high-quality, durable garments that are crafted with care. From sourcing the fabric to applying finishing techniques, each step of the process is crucial. Here's a look at the denim manufacturing stages:

1. Denim Fabric Sourcing

The first step in denim manufacturing is sourcing the fabric. Denim fabric typically comes in a woven twill pattern, often dyed with indigo to achieve that iconic blue look. For small batch production, you might choose to either source pre-made denim or work with your manufacturer to create a custom denim fabric that suits your specific needs.

Popular fabric choices for denim include:

Raw Denim: Unwashed and untreated denim that will fade naturally over time.

Stonewashed Denim: A pre-washed, faded denim for a more worn-in look.

Eco-Friendly Denim: Made from organic cotton or recycled fibers, this type of denim is growing in popularity as sustainability becomes a top priority for many brands.

2. Pattern Making and Cutting

Once the fabric is sourced, the next stage is creating the patterns that will be used to cut the fabric into pieces. Whether you’re making jeans, jackets, skirts, or accessories, pattern-making ensures each piece is cut precisely, reducing fabric waste and making the most out of your materials.

For low-quantity denim orders, you’ll often work with a manufacturer who can create custom patterns that match your designs, whether it's a classic cut or something more experimental.

3. Sewing and Assembly

After the fabric is cut, it’s time to sew the pieces together. This is where the craftsmanship comes into play. Each piece of denim is carefully sewn to create the final garment. During this phase, you may also add elements like zippers, buttons, rivets, and labels—all of which are considered trimmings.

For smaller runs, manufacturers often focus more on precision and quality to ensure every stitch is perfect. If your brand is known for attention to detail, this is the stage where your product really starts to take shape.

4. Washing and Finishing

Denim can be finished in several ways to achieve different looks and textures. This includes:

Stone washing to give denim a faded, worn look.

Distressing or whiskering to mimic natural wear patterns.

Rinsing to soften the fabric and remove excess dye.

The finishing process gives each pair of jeans or denim jacket its unique personality. For small orders, you can work with manufacturers who offer custom finishing techniques, which means you can experiment with various washes and distressing methods to create a truly one-of-a-kind product.

The Benefits of Low-Quantity Denim Production

While mass production often offers lower unit costs, low-quantity denim manufacturing has several key advantages for small clothing brands looking to build their niche and identity in the denim market:

1. Customization

Low-quantity production allows you to have greater control over the design. You can select the denim weight, finishes, and even the stitching methods to create products that align perfectly with your brand’s aesthetic. This flexibility is especially valuable if you're building a unique collection or experimenting with new styles.

2. Lower Risk

When producing small batches, you're not committing to large quantities of inventory, which means there’s less risk involved. You can test the market with smaller orders to see which styles or fits resonate best with your target audience. This is an ideal approach for startups and emerging brands.

3. Sustainability

Small-batch production can be much more sustainable than mass manufacturing. You can work with manufacturers who prioritize eco-friendly practices, such as using organic cotton or recycled denim. Additionally, smaller runs tend to have fewer waste materials, reducing the overall environmental impact of your production process.

4. Faster Turnaround Times

With low-quantity orders, production times tend to be shorter. You can work with manufacturers who are agile enough to deliver products faster, enabling you to respond to trends or adjust your collections more quickly.

How to Choose the Right Denim Manufacturer for Small Orders

When looking for a denim manufacturer who specializes in small orders, there are a few key factors to consider:

1. Expertise and Experience

Look for manufacturers with extensive experience in denim production. Denim is a unique fabric that requires specialized knowledge to work with, especially if you’re looking for high-quality finishes or customized designs.

2. Sustainability Practices

If sustainability is important to your brand, make sure the manufacturer offers eco-friendly options like organic denim, waterless dyeing, and low-impact finishing techniques. These practices can help reduce your brand's carbon footprint.

3. Flexibility with Low Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs)

Not all manufacturers are open to small-batch production, so look for companies that offer flexible minimum order quantities. This allows you to test different designs or styles without committing to large quantities.

4. Quality Control

With smaller orders, you want to make sure your denim products meet your quality standards. Choose a manufacturer that offers detailed quality control checks throughout the production process to ensure that every garment is up to par.

Sustainable Denim: An Essential Element for Future Fashion

Sustainability is becoming increasingly important to denim consumers. More and more brands are turning to eco-friendly denim production to reduce their environmental impact. This includes using recycled denim, organic cotton, and adopting more energy-efficient production processes.

By working with a sustainable denim manufacturer, you can not only create beautiful products but also build a brand that aligns with the growing demand for environmentally responsible fashion.

Conclusion: Start Your Denim Journey with the Right Manufacturing Partner

Launching a successful denim collection with low-quantity production is entirely possible with the right denim manufacturing partner. By working with experts who understand the complexities of denim fabric, design, and sustainable production methods, you can bring your denim vision to life while staying true to your brand’s values.

At Ro & RItzy, we specialize in small-batch denim production and offer a wide range of eco-friendly denim options. Whether you’re based in the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, or Europe, we provide custom solutions for clothing brands looking to make an impact with quality, sustainable denim. Reach out today to get started on creating your perfect denim collection!

[tsasocial]

Egy Stitch & Tex Expo 2025: Oerlikon Manmade Fibers Solutions sets the tone in the Egyptian market

With a clear focus on the needs of the Egyptian market, Oerlikon Manmade Fibers Solutions will be presenting itself at the Egy Stitch & Tex Expo 2025 in Cairo from February 20 to 23, 2025. At the booth of Oerlikon agent ATAG Ltd. Trading Export & Import in Hall 1, Booth 1A12, experts from Oerlikon Barmag and from BB Engineering (BBE) will be explaining the comprehensive product and service portfolio.

The comprehensive DTY solutions from Oerlikon Manmade Fibers Solutions are the focus of the trade show appearance:

DTY yarns – uncompromising quality and maximum flexibility

Clothing, home textiles, automotive – there are countless applications for textured yarns. For the efficient and sustainable production of high-quality textured yarns made of different polymers, from polyester and polyamide to polypropylene, PLA and PTT, Oerlikon Barmag provides a wide range of different DTY machine configurations. With sophisticated components, expertise and proven technology, the modular DTY machines – whether manual or automatic – produce textured yarns for excellent downstream processing, while keeping OPEX costs to a minimum.

Increasing demand for fancy yarns

“But the demand for textiles with special properties, irregularities and a special look and feel is also becoming more and more important,” explains Jilali Lakraa, Regional Sales Director at Oerlikon Barmag. ”For such fabrics, so-called fancy yarns are required that deviate from the standard, e.g. cotton-like DTY, linen-like DTY or wool-like DTY. Effect yarns include a very wide range of yarn types that are manufactured using a variety of methods and additional components,” he continues. With its high-quality and flexible technology, detailed knowledge of the yarn path and the necessary parameter settings, Oerlikon Barmag is the ideal partner for the successful and flexible production and continuous development of these specialty yarns.

Extended product range for the manufacture of carpet yarns

The knowledge of all relevant technologies in manmade fiber spinning allows Oerlikon Barmag, as the only manufacturer worldwide, to extend its range of services for the production of carpet yarns. The system concept based on a POY and texturizing process is designed for a carpet and home textile product area that requires particularly soft and bulky polyester threads with BCF-like properties. The aim here is to produce yarns with a titer of up to 1300dtex and typically over 1000 filaments. Typical products include, for example, 1300dtex f1152 or 660dtex f1152 and 990dtex f768. The machine concept consists of the familiar WINGS HD POY winder and the eAFK Big-V texturing machine.

VarioFil – flexible compact spinning system for countless applications and specialties

Whether carpets or upholstery fabrics, fashion or sportswear, or seat belts or airbags – a wide range of products is no challenge for the VarioFil system from BBE. This compact turnkey spinning system is also ideal for producers who manufacture small batch sizes or specialized products. It is similarly flexible when processing various polymers, regardless of whether it is PET, PP, PA 6 and PA 6.6 or PBT. Customized conversion packages enable quick adaptation of the system to constantly changing market demands. In combination with Oerlikon Barmag texturing machines, a wide range of end products can be covered. This ranges from standard textile yarns to textured yarns with properties similar to BCF.

Furthermore, with the VarioFil R+ it is possible to recycle and process PET bottle granulate and PET waste, which is produced during start-up, directly back into POY. The sustainable machine concept allows for high product flexibility, including the manufacturing of spun-dyed yarn.

JeTex air texturing enables a broad and flexible product portfolio

And for BB Engineering, it does not stop with yarn spinning: the Oerlikon Barmag subsidiary also offers a solution for texturing – with a flexibility similar to VarioFil. The JeTex air texturing system perfectly complements the Oerlikon Barmag DTY system, thus enabling the customer to expand its product portfolio to include high-quality ATY based on POY and FDY for a wide range of textile and industrial applications. The core element of the system is the texturing box developed by BB Engineering, which, in addition to many other state-of-the-art components from Oerlikon Barmag, ensures both gentle yarn treatment with reliable texturing effects and production efficiency in terms of

OPEX, handling and speed.

Particularly smart: JeTex is not only available as a closed system, but also as a conversion variant for existing Oerlikon Barmag DTY systems. This allows customers to expand or convert their product portfolio to ATY in a cost-saving and comparatively short time.

Versatile PET recycling solutions with VacuFil and Visco+

“From waste to value” – that's what BBE's VacuFil PET recycling system does. It is specially designed for high-quality processing of textile waste. The technology is unique and based on decades of experience in extrusion, filtration and spinning: it combines gentle large-area filtration with targeted IV regulation for consistently excellent rPET melt quality, comparable to virgin material. A wide range of input materials can be processed: in addition to the usual bottle flakes, VacuFil is particularly suitable for production waste from spinning mills, from start-up lumps to yarn and fabrics, and can also handle post-consumer waste. The patented key component Visco+, a liquid-state polycondensation, quickly and reliably removes volatile impurities and automatically regulates the IV. There are also various options for further processing the recycled melt. The melt can be added to the main melt flow, processed into chips via a pelletizing process or fed directly back into the spinning mill. The VacuFil recycling system can thus be flexibly and modularly customized to the customer's requirements.

Customer Services – Partnering for Performance

With Oerlikon Barmag's Lifecycle Management, chemical fiber producers can maintain and improve the future viability of their machines and systems. Pragmatic solutions for increasing and safeguarding productivity, including opening up new markets, enable profitable business over the entire service life of the machines. As a partner, Oerlikon Barmag offers leading technologies and services for long-term competitiveness – from upgrades and modernizations to preventive maintenance and repairs with original parts. The original part packages are explicitly designed for the demanding use of the systems for which they are intended. Due to their high-quality standards, they have a significantly longer service life than other spare parts. This avoids unplanned production downtimes and saves money in the end.

Upgrade solutions are based on the existing machine platforms, regardless of whether they are

technology upgrades to expand the product range and increase competitiveness,

process upgrades to improve throughput and yarn properties,

component upgrades to improve life expectancy, ease of use and cost savings, or

software upgrades.

[netsolwatersblog]

Are You Looking For The Best Commercial RO Plant Manufacturer In Faridabad ?

The present situation of the Commercial RO Plant manufacturer In Faridabad is in very bad condition & a proper system of treatment machinery is necessary for the treatment of such water to supply it to every location needed.

A typical person utilizes up to 150-180 litres of clean water each & every day for internal household operations, including cooking, bathing, cleaning clothes as well as utensils, & various other household chores. Through the means of rough estimation regarding such utilizations may vary person to person.

Before being fully purified in a commercial RO plant, the contaminated water from the previously mentioned areas departs our home through pipeline networks that are put in place to empty the wastewater into different sewage systems. Commercial RO plant units are therefore made to filter raw water from residences, workplaces, apartments, colonies, & industrial sites.

Rainwater or storm water that has gathered on preserved surfaces, like non-uniform highways or roofs, is occasionally mixed with this water. Netsol Water itself has many branches that stands out as the leading commercial RO plant manufacturer in Faridabad, which is located heart of the Country. Having access to the latest commercial RO plant technologies, we have accumulated years of knowledgeable experience.

The management team of commercial RO plants in Faridabad's RO manufacturing sector is still in the early stages of development.

India currently has a population of more than 1.4 billion, but it is expected to have grown by 15% annually by the completion of this decade. This implies that the shortage of drinkable water may exceed 50% by that time.

The solution to the wastewater issue lies in Faridabad's commercial RO facilities.

Regretfully, our environment is now more degraded as a consequence of the quick rate of growth. Among the contaminants released is the effluent water which is full of contamination & impurities. Commercial RO Plant systems are becoming steadily more necessary in Indian cities to control wastewater. This is particularly important in Faridabad, where treating raw water or wastewater is essential to preserving the community's cherished cleanliness.

The company of Netsol Water & its many supporting branches offers a variety of raw water treatment systems by implementing modern & advanced technology with membranes in addition to conventional, premium machinery. Netsol Water & its branches offer guarantees to the finest outcomes for its commercial RO plant projects. Modern technology is integrated by Netsol Water, which provides affordable, straightforward solutions that are still flexible.

In the raw water treatment plant manufacturing industry, Netsol Water with the help and support of its best subsidiaries dominates the market for comprehensive water management systems. Our water treatment systems can handle wastewater from residences, companies, & industries while continuing to abide by CPCB/State Pollution Control Board laws, among other things.

What distinguishes our wastewater treatment equipment & systems better from other?

Our wastewater treatment facility runs effectively & financially. Customers have given Netsol Water's concrete opinions & performances for Commercial RO Plants positive feedback due to the plants' durability, ease of function, minimal upkeep & repair costs, & resistance to eroding or rusting & long service life.

This Faridabad-based manufacturer of commercial RO plants integrates & provides equipment & processes that are based on the output water quality.

MBBRs along with MBRs

Batch reactors in sequence

Preset base integrated with biofilm-activated sludge & Submerged Aeration Fixed Film methods events.

The circular clarifying agents with edge flow along with bio towers adjacent to sludge extraction clarifiers.

Commercial RO plants have the following features integrated with several characteristics: 

Small and compact construction; 

Easy removal of all hazardous materials from raw, untreated water.

Both containerized & non-contained RO plant varieties are available as options.

Simple to assemble.

Very Economical as well as valuable.

Fully automated.

Rapid processing rates.

Minimal operating & maintenance costs.

The highest caliber of waste recycling.

Conclusion

In the future years, the water treatment plant manufacturing industry in India is expected to rise very rapidly. It is anticipated that private businesses will assist Faridabad government authorities by developing innovative raw water handling facilities with modern techniques while raising public awareness. The national water strategy of the government highlights raw water as a potentially successful market for municipal water as well as wastewater projects. Netsol Water along with its supporting strong branches has grown into a powerful commercial RO plant manufacturer in Faridabad that is always pleased to assist whenever possible.

[cleverhottubmiracle]

Looking for clothing manufacturers for small orders to help take your fashion brand from idea to made? New brands are often intimidated by the high MOQs - lowest minimum order quantities - that many of the well-known factories demand. So they feel like they are left with only two options – invest heavily in large quantities of inventory or give up.  It might take a little extra work, but I want you to know there are small batch clothing manufacturers out there that are perfect for your small business.  This blog post is going to teach you how to find and work with clothing manufacturers for small businesses in two parts. First, I will teach you best practices for working with small quantity clothing manufacturers; then I will share a few of my favorites. Here is why the first part is soooo important.  Just because you have the email address, or direct phone number to an amazing factory, that doesn’t mean they will want to work with you. Competition to get into good factories is steep, and making a good first impression is critical. Think of it this way. It’s like getting a resi to an amazing restaurant, you wait 2 weeks to get to go, then you show up and can’t get in because you didn’t know about the dress code. So, close yet so far. I want factories excited to work with you (not ignoring you), so please don’t skip this first part.  I am here to help you on your clothing business journey, and sometimes that means not just giving you the info you are looking for, but even more!   BUT BEFORE WE GET STARTED... I love helping startup brand founders succeed, so I created a bunch of free guides that will help you with your business. They won’t be free forever, so make sure to grab them while you can. In this post, you will learn: Why finding a clothing manufacturer with low minimum orders is hard  3 things you need to do, to turn a no from a factory into a yes The best sourcing trip you can take for your small business Online sourcing resources I love to find clothing manufacturers for small orders Nontraditional supply chain options perfect for small brands 3 things a manufacturer must do before you work with them (I know, it can feel like such a relief when someone finally says yet to you - but you still need to do your due diligence) Additional resources to help you even more NO TIME TO READ? CHECK OUT THIS 60 SECOND SLIDE DECK   WHY ARE FASHION MANUFACTURING MOQs SO HIGH? First things first . . .  Quick reminder – MOQ means minimum order quantity, or the minimum amount you need to order for a factory to agree to work with you. The reality is it takes a factory the same amount of effort to source and develop styles for an order of 10 shirts as it does for an order of 10,000. Sounds crazy, but it's true. Let me explain. There are nine steps leading up to a style moving to production, and these steps are exactly the same no matter what size the production order is. If you want to learn more about each step, you can check out this article. But to quickly recap it – here are all the things that need to happen. Pattern making Fit samples  Fit sample revisions Pattern revisions Fabric, trim, and component sourcing (sometimes working with up to 10 different supply chain partners to get everything needed to make a garment - from fabric to thread to labels and tags) Fabric, trim, and component sampling Proto samples/production quality sample (includes ordering sample fabric, trim, etc.) Pattern grading Ordering all components and organizing shipping and logistics to the factory A LOT of time, energy, and resources (read money) go into all of this. And again, it’s the same whether a factory is making 10 garments or a million.  So, from just a staying-in-business perspective, some factories need to have high MOQs just to cover the cost of all the development and pre-production work that goes into sampling. IF IT COSTS SO MUCH TO DEVELOP, HOW ARE FACTORIES ABLE TO TAKE ON SMALL MOQs? Traditionally, a factory will charge a client about 2x the bulk production rate for sampling, including pattern making, sourcing, and the whole shebang. So if a shirt costs $10 in production, the sample will cost $20. The factory ends up losing a lot of money. But there is this unspoken deal in the industry that if you sample with someone, you will work with them in production. And in production, the factory will make back the sampling costs, plus a lot in profits. This is also why factories don’t really like working with startups – there is no guarantee the brand will ever launch, give them a bulk order, and help the factory recoup the money spent on product development.  Now, if a factory is making tiny MOQs, there is no way they can sustain this, so manufacturing partners that help startups with small orders charge a fair rate for the costs of the sampling. So instead of $20, factories might charge $200 or more for the same sample with a low MOQ. And, this way, you can make as little as 10 pieces if you want to – because they aren’t relying on that bulk order to make their money back. Now, please don’t get any cute ideas and try to lie and say you are going to make big MOQs to get cheap sampling. It’s a great way to burn bridges and get a terrible reputation in the fashion manufacturing world. We all talk, we all know each other, and you don’t want factories to start deleting your emails without even opening them because they know you lied to their friend about big orders that never came last season. DO THESE 3 THINGS BEFORE YOU START WORKING WITH A SMALL BATCH CLOTHING MANUFACTURER Now that you understand why finding a low MOQ factory can be difficult, I want to help prepare you to make the best first impression possible. So, before you press send on that email, I need you to do these three things. Remember low MOQ factories are scarce, and there are more and more people starting brands every day. Some factories even have 3-month waits, before they will even schedule the first meeting with you. So, this means you need to stand out as a professional. TASK 1 - CREATE A BUDGET  This is the most important thing you can do for the success of your brand. And it is often the most overlooked.  If you don’t have a budget, you can’t get started. One more time for the people in the back – even if you plan to crowdfund, you still need a budget. Because crowdfunding is unpredictable, you could raise $100 or thousands. Your budget is what is going to allow you to estimate the number of styles you can afford to make and your MOQ. The point of your budget at this time isn’t to figure everything out to the penny. It’s just to get a general idea. By the end of your first budgeting exercise, you should be able to say, “With the money I have, I can afford to make about x styles in y colors and place a production order of z pieces per style. Now, a lot of new founders think they need to talk to a factory to figure this out.  You don’t.  In this post about working with fabric suppliers, I break down exactly how to estimate your costs without ever having to contact a supplier. The bottom line? When you set a budget, you set yourself up for success. I have helped over 200 people start their fashion businesses, and I can tell you this – the ones that have a solid budget are much more likely to succeed than the brands that don’t. Because, at the end of the day, it doesn’t matter how good your idea is, or how much the world needs it if you run out of money.  And knowing your budget looks good to manufacturing partners. Because when you can show them your have taken the time to make a budget, they trust you will make it past sampling and into production (again, production is where clothing manufacturers for small orders will be making most of their profits). TASK 2: NAIL DOWN YOUR DESIGNS You need to know what you want to make. And not just a vague idea. Your designs should be nailed down and about 90% finalized before you start talking to custom clothing manufacturers. That is because the factory you work with will be determined by the designs. There are some clothing manufacturers for small orders that make everything, but most factories are very specialized. They only make one type of product, whether it's woven women's wear, t-shirts, or swimsuits. Some factories will not work with luxury fabrics like silk and satin, while others only do that.  A lot of times, I see new founders thinking they found the perfect supplier.But once they finalize their designs and send them to the factory, the factory says, “Sorry, we don’t do those types of styles.” (It actually happens way more than you think). I know, I get it. You’re probably very anxious about finding a factory and checking that off your to-do list. But finalizing your designs will save you time in the long run. TASK 3: DECIDE WHERE YOU WANT YOUR CLOTHES TO BE MADE Where in the world do you want to make your product?  Some parts of the world specialize in different types of products. An example of this is with swimwear – there are actually five major hubs of swimwear production, they are – the USA, China, Brazil, Bali, and Italy. If you want to learn more about the pros and cons of deciding where to make your clothing line, you can check out this article. The reason you want to decide where you want your clothes to be made first is because, domestic and overseas clothing manufacturers opperate very differently. And, you you try to research both at the same time you will probably end up feeling overwhelmed. THE BIG QUESTION - Domestic Clothing Manufacturers vs. Overseas Here is my opinion on this great debate.  For startup brands, I recommend getting started close to home for not just one, but three different reasons. 1. Work in person without time zone or communication issues. I like to call this face time. No, not the video calling thing, but actually spending time with your factory in person.  What over a decade in this industry has taught me is that anything is possible and everything is negotiable. That is, if your supply chain partner likes you. And the best way to get them to like you and build a strong working relationship with you is to spend time with them in person. Sorry, Zoom, the digital stuff will never replace IRL, IMO. When I worked in fast fashion, I can’t tell you how many times my boss would beg a factory to do something for him, and the factory would refuse. Then I would ask, and they would be like, “sure” (because they liked me).  The other benefit of working with a factory close to home is that you won’t have language barriers. Different countries communicate in different ways and have their own fashion industry lingo. For example, what most of us know as a clothing seam is often called a joint in India. Speaking the same language makes learning a new fashion language a lot easier. 2. Save on shipping and logistics prices. Shipping these days is expensive. And if you are shipping fabric swatches, lab dips, strike-offs, samples, and all the product development things halfway across the world, those costs are going to add up quickly.  Even though the production cost in developing countries tends to be much lower than in the West, by the time brands factor in all the development costs and shipping, they aren’t actually saving very much money. 3. No cultural learning curve, holidays, etc. When you work in a different country for the first year or two, you are going to be constantly surprised.  Random holidays you had no idea existed and even the weather are going to delay your timelines. One thing most people don’t realize when working in India is how slow things become in the monsoon. Yeah, during the fall, they might be able to crank out your order in a month, but during the rainy season, good luck – another month to two could be added to your calendar.  Once a brand is a few seasons in, their orders are growing, and they’re learning the ins and outs of the garment manufacturing world, then they can start exploring overseas options. Now, if you want to skip straight to overseas, I suggest hiring someone to help manage your project who knows the lay of the land. I offer private consulting, which you can check out here. To sum it all up - the reason small businesses often have more luck finding a manufacturer close to home for the small orders is because it is just easier.  Overseas partners often feel like not only are they spending time teaching new brands the ins and outs of getting their garments made, but also have to offer them a crash course in the local culture. It’s just too much free work for them.  For example every time I have a new client working in India for the first time, that first bank transfer is painful. Something as simiple as paying a deposit becomes a days long tutorial (sorry we don’t have Zelle, Venmo, or even Paypal here). THE ONLY GARMENT SOURCING TRIP YOU SHOULD PLAN Trade shows! I have said it before, and I’ll say it again. I love trade shows. Here is a list of my favorite textile trade shows. And, this is why trade shows are so great. They are a one-stop shop for global suppliers who actually want to work with you. So much so, that these suppliers are paying tens of thousands of dollars to travel and participate in the shows. Back in the day, tradeshow suppliers were mostly focused on big orders. But, times have changed, and that is no longer the case. Some shows even have special fashion startup areas that feature clothing manufacturers for small orders. And when you attend a trade show, there are also tons of free seminars and talks. So they are a great place to get educated at no cost to you. If your budget for your brand is going to restrict your ability to travel, going to a trade show is what I would spend those limited dollars on. Can’t make it to a show live? Most trade shows now have digital components as well. So, you can check out digital showrooms and chat with suppliers on their websites from your home. ONLINE SOURCING RESOURCES THAT EVERY STARTUP FASHION BRAND SHOULD KNOW ABOUT  Speaking of digital sourcing . . .  Here are a few of the most buzzworthy online sourcing resources that every fashion startup founder should know about. Not only do they have deep connections to suppliers, but they also help you stay organized and on top of your communication and orders. Their promoted partners range from mega suppliers with huge MOQs to clothing manufacturers for small orders that are perfect for startup brands. But, they do have their downfalls. Fabric sourcing and garment manufacturing are very physical businesses - it’s important to see, feel, and touch the quality. So, be careful and understand the limitations when working online. SEWPORT “Built to support emerging brands and aspiring fashion designers who struggled to connect with the right clothing manufacturers to launch their businesses.” SEAMLESS SOURCE “We developed an automated omnichannel sourcing platform and integrated order management tool to help your brand build a digitalized, faster, leaner and more responsible supply chain, all in one place with industry-leading, reliable, responsible and sustainable suppliers across the globe.” FOURSOURCE “A global network that brings people, organizations, and innovative ideas together. We make textile sourcing smarter, transparent, and more sustainable.” (FYI - I DO NOT RECOMMEND MAKERS ROW AFTER 2 BAD EXPERIENCES WITH THE COMPANY AND THEIR CLOTHING MANUFACTURING SERVICES) THE BEST NON-TRADITIONAL SUPPLY CHAIN HACK TO FIND CLOTHING MANUFACTURERS FOR SMALL ORDERS Sample rooms and home sewers.  Sample rooms are like mini-factories, with one or two sewing machines. And an alternative to that would be a home sewer, just like it sounds, someone who sews from their home.  Now, the pro is that these apparel manufacturers are more than happy to take on really tiny production orders. The downside is that they might not be able to scale with you, so they are not always a long-term solution. When I tell founders to try out one of these options, I usually get pushback because they are convinced that if their product is not made in a traditional factory, it will not be professional or high quality.  But this is very false. Independent sewers are some of the best clothing manufacturers for small orders around! A lot of people (especially women) go out on their own after working in factories for years. They are highly trained and are starting their own mini businesses for the same reason you are starting your own clothing business. The freedom, control of their own paycheck, and all the other perks that come along with being a small business owner. I would even go as far as to argue that if you are into true women’s empowerment, this is the ONLY option to choose.  3 THINGS A MANUFACTURER NEEDS TO DO BEFORE YOU START WORKING WITH THEM You know - what you need to do and, how to find a manufacturer for your small business. Now, let’s discuss some things THEY should do before you decide to work with them. Remember, you are always in control of your supply chain. Yes, finding a supplier that is a good fit is hard. But I hate it when new brands start working with the first person that answers their emails.  You don’t just have to accept the first person that responds to you. Be picky! Just because your order is small doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have options. Or, that you shouldn't be able to vet your supplier properly. Be choosey. Before you start working with anyone, make sure to do these three things.  1. TALK TO REFERENCES If a factory tells you they sign NDAs so they can’t share clients with you, that is a blazing red flag.  Whenever a new supplier gives me this excuse, I respond, “I am sure you must have one client that you have become friends with over the years that would be happy to vouch for you.” If they don’t, I can’t stress this enough. Don’t work with them. 2. LOOK AT SAMPLES Most factories have showrooms with samples from past projects that they can show you. This can give you an idea about the type of garments they can make and prove that they can make good quality clothing for your brand.   While clothing manufacturers for small orders might have fewer examples to show than a big factory showroom, they should still have something. Quick tip. When you look at samples, you are not just looking at the quality, but also the type of garment. If you want to make swimsuits and every sample in the showroom is a t-shirt... Well, this factory might not be the best fit. 3. GIVE PRICING  It is impossible for clothing manufacturers for small orders to give you accurate pricing until they make your sample. They need to see how much fabric the garment consumes (the more fabric, the higher the price) and how long the garment takes to make (the longer it takes to sew, the higher the price).  But what they can do is tell you approximately how much it will cost. Because if your target price is $30 per garment in production and they are quoting $50, you know they won’t be a good fit. So, why waste your time sampling with them? ADDITIONAL SOURCING RESOURCES Here are a few more articles to check out for even more help. Where to source sustainable fabrics (list includes suppliers) Affordable mentorship options My favorite hack to launch your brand faster Tips for working with fabric suppliers Everything you need to know about tech packs WHAT DID YOU THINK? What step are you on in finding your perfect clothing manufacturing partner? Let me know in the comments. Source link

[norajworld]

Looking for clothing manufacturers for small orders to help take your fashion brand from idea to made? New brands are often intimidated by the high MOQs - lowest minimum order quantities - that many of the well-known factories demand. So they feel like they are left with only two options – invest heavily in large quantities of inventory or give up.  It might take a little extra work, but I want you to know there are small batch clothing manufacturers out there that are perfect for your small business.  This blog post is going to teach you how to find and work with clothing manufacturers for small businesses in two parts. First, I will teach you best practices for working with small quantity clothing manufacturers; then I will share a few of my favorites. Here is why the first part is soooo important.  Just because you have the email address, or direct phone number to an amazing factory, that doesn’t mean they will want to work with you. Competition to get into good factories is steep, and making a good first impression is critical. Think of it this way. It’s like getting a resi to an amazing restaurant, you wait 2 weeks to get to go, then you show up and can’t get in because you didn’t know about the dress code. So, close yet so far. I want factories excited to work with you (not ignoring you), so please don’t skip this first part.  I am here to help you on your clothing business journey, and sometimes that means not just giving you the info you are looking for, but even more!   BUT BEFORE WE GET STARTED... I love helping startup brand founders succeed, so I created a bunch of free guides that will help you with your business. They won’t be free forever, so make sure to grab them while you can. In this post, you will learn: Why finding a clothing manufacturer with low minimum orders is hard  3 things you need to do, to turn a no from a factory into a yes The best sourcing trip you can take for your small business Online sourcing resources I love to find clothing manufacturers for small orders Nontraditional supply chain options perfect for small brands 3 things a manufacturer must do before you work with them (I know, it can feel like such a relief when someone finally says yet to you - but you still need to do your due diligence) Additional resources to help you even more NO TIME TO READ? CHECK OUT THIS 60 SECOND SLIDE DECK   WHY ARE FASHION MANUFACTURING MOQs SO HIGH? First things first . . .  Quick reminder – MOQ means minimum order quantity, or the minimum amount you need to order for a factory to agree to work with you. The reality is it takes a factory the same amount of effort to source and develop styles for an order of 10 shirts as it does for an order of 10,000. Sounds crazy, but it's true. Let me explain. There are nine steps leading up to a style moving to production, and these steps are exactly the same no matter what size the production order is. If you want to learn more about each step, you can check out this article. But to quickly recap it – here are all the things that need to happen. Pattern making Fit samples  Fit sample revisions Pattern revisions Fabric, trim, and component sourcing (sometimes working with up to 10 different supply chain partners to get everything needed to make a garment - from fabric to thread to labels and tags) Fabric, trim, and component sampling Proto samples/production quality sample (includes ordering sample fabric, trim, etc.) Pattern grading Ordering all components and organizing shipping and logistics to the factory A LOT of time, energy, and resources (read money) go into all of this. And again, it’s the same whether a factory is making 10 garments or a million.  So, from just a staying-in-business perspective, some factories need to have high MOQs just to cover the cost of all the development and pre-production work that goes into sampling. IF IT COSTS SO MUCH TO DEVELOP, HOW ARE FACTORIES ABLE TO TAKE ON SMALL MOQs? Traditionally, a factory will charge a client about 2x the bulk production rate for sampling, including pattern making, sourcing, and the whole shebang. So if a shirt costs $10 in production, the sample will cost $20. The factory ends up losing a lot of money. But there is this unspoken deal in the industry that if you sample with someone, you will work with them in production. And in production, the factory will make back the sampling costs, plus a lot in profits. This is also why factories don’t really like working with startups – there is no guarantee the brand will ever launch, give them a bulk order, and help the factory recoup the money spent on product development.  Now, if a factory is making tiny MOQs, there is no way they can sustain this, so manufacturing partners that help startups with small orders charge a fair rate for the costs of the sampling. So instead of $20, factories might charge $200 or more for the same sample with a low MOQ. And, this way, you can make as little as 10 pieces if you want to – because they aren’t relying on that bulk order to make their money back. Now, please don’t get any cute ideas and try to lie and say you are going to make big MOQs to get cheap sampling. It’s a great way to burn bridges and get a terrible reputation in the fashion manufacturing world. We all talk, we all know each other, and you don’t want factories to start deleting your emails without even opening them because they know you lied to their friend about big orders that never came last season. DO THESE 3 THINGS BEFORE YOU START WORKING WITH A SMALL BATCH CLOTHING MANUFACTURER Now that you understand why finding a low MOQ factory can be difficult, I want to help prepare you to make the best first impression possible. So, before you press send on that email, I need you to do these three things. Remember low MOQ factories are scarce, and there are more and more people starting brands every day. Some factories even have 3-month waits, before they will even schedule the first meeting with you. So, this means you need to stand out as a professional. TASK 1 - CREATE A BUDGET  This is the most important thing you can do for the success of your brand. And it is often the most overlooked.  If you don’t have a budget, you can’t get started. One more time for the people in the back – even if you plan to crowdfund, you still need a budget. Because crowdfunding is unpredictable, you could raise $100 or thousands. Your budget is what is going to allow you to estimate the number of styles you can afford to make and your MOQ. The point of your budget at this time isn’t to figure everything out to the penny. It’s just to get a general idea. By the end of your first budgeting exercise, you should be able to say, “With the money I have, I can afford to make about x styles in y colors and place a production order of z pieces per style. Now, a lot of new founders think they need to talk to a factory to figure this out.  You don’t.  In this post about working with fabric suppliers, I break down exactly how to estimate your costs without ever having to contact a supplier. The bottom line? When you set a budget, you set yourself up for success. I have helped over 200 people start their fashion businesses, and I can tell you this – the ones that have a solid budget are much more likely to succeed than the brands that don’t. Because, at the end of the day, it doesn’t matter how good your idea is, or how much the world needs it if you run out of money.  And knowing your budget looks good to manufacturing partners. Because when you can show them your have taken the time to make a budget, they trust you will make it past sampling and into production (again, production is where clothing manufacturers for small orders will be making most of their profits). TASK 2: NAIL DOWN YOUR DESIGNS You need to know what you want to make. And not just a vague idea. Your designs should be nailed down and about 90% finalized before you start talking to custom clothing manufacturers. That is because the factory you work with will be determined by the designs. There are some clothing manufacturers for small orders that make everything, but most factories are very specialized. They only make one type of product, whether it's woven women's wear, t-shirts, or swimsuits. Some factories will not work with luxury fabrics like silk and satin, while others only do that.  A lot of times, I see new founders thinking they found the perfect supplier.But once they finalize their designs and send them to the factory, the factory says, “Sorry, we don’t do those types of styles.” (It actually happens way more than you think). I know, I get it. You’re probably very anxious about finding a factory and checking that off your to-do list. But finalizing your designs will save you time in the long run. TASK 3: DECIDE WHERE YOU WANT YOUR CLOTHES TO BE MADE Where in the world do you want to make your product?  Some parts of the world specialize in different types of products. An example of this is with swimwear – there are actually five major hubs of swimwear production, they are – the USA, China, Brazil, Bali, and Italy. If you want to learn more about the pros and cons of deciding where to make your clothing line, you can check out this article. The reason you want to decide where you want your clothes to be made first is because, domestic and overseas clothing manufacturers opperate very differently. And, you you try to research both at the same time you will probably end up feeling overwhelmed. THE BIG QUESTION - Domestic Clothing Manufacturers vs. Overseas Here is my opinion on this great debate.  For startup brands, I recommend getting started close to home for not just one, but three different reasons. 1. Work in person without time zone or communication issues. I like to call this face time. No, not the video calling thing, but actually spending time with your factory in person.  What over a decade in this industry has taught me is that anything is possible and everything is negotiable. That is, if your supply chain partner likes you. And the best way to get them to like you and build a strong working relationship with you is to spend time with them in person. Sorry, Zoom, the digital stuff will never replace IRL, IMO. When I worked in fast fashion, I can’t tell you how many times my boss would beg a factory to do something for him, and the factory would refuse. Then I would ask, and they would be like, “sure” (because they liked me).  The other benefit of working with a factory close to home is that you won’t have language barriers. Different countries communicate in different ways and have their own fashion industry lingo. For example, what most of us know as a clothing seam is often called a joint in India. Speaking the same language makes learning a new fashion language a lot easier. 2. Save on shipping and logistics prices. Shipping these days is expensive. And if you are shipping fabric swatches, lab dips, strike-offs, samples, and all the product development things halfway across the world, those costs are going to add up quickly.  Even though the production cost in developing countries tends to be much lower than in the West, by the time brands factor in all the development costs and shipping, they aren’t actually saving very much money. 3. No cultural learning curve, holidays, etc. When you work in a different country for the first year or two, you are going to be constantly surprised.  Random holidays you had no idea existed and even the weather are going to delay your timelines. One thing most people don’t realize when working in India is how slow things become in the monsoon. Yeah, during the fall, they might be able to crank out your order in a month, but during the rainy season, good luck – another month to two could be added to your calendar.  Once a brand is a few seasons in, their orders are growing, and they’re learning the ins and outs of the garment manufacturing world, then they can start exploring overseas options. Now, if you want to skip straight to overseas, I suggest hiring someone to help manage your project who knows the lay of the land. I offer private consulting, which you can check out here. To sum it all up - the reason small businesses often have more luck finding a manufacturer close to home for the small orders is because it is just easier.  Overseas partners often feel like not only are they spending time teaching new brands the ins and outs of getting their garments made, but also have to offer them a crash course in the local culture. It’s just too much free work for them.  For example every time I have a new client working in India for the first time, that first bank transfer is painful. Something as simiple as paying a deposit becomes a days long tutorial (sorry we don’t have Zelle, Venmo, or even Paypal here). THE ONLY GARMENT SOURCING TRIP YOU SHOULD PLAN Trade shows! I have said it before, and I’ll say it again. I love trade shows. Here is a list of my favorite textile trade shows. And, this is why trade shows are so great. They are a one-stop shop for global suppliers who actually want to work with you. So much so, that these suppliers are paying tens of thousands of dollars to travel and participate in the shows. Back in the day, tradeshow suppliers were mostly focused on big orders. But, times have changed, and that is no longer the case. Some shows even have special fashion startup areas that feature clothing manufacturers for small orders. And when you attend a trade show, there are also tons of free seminars and talks. So they are a great place to get educated at no cost to you. If your budget for your brand is going to restrict your ability to travel, going to a trade show is what I would spend those limited dollars on. Can’t make it to a show live? Most trade shows now have digital components as well. So, you can check out digital showrooms and chat with suppliers on their websites from your home. ONLINE SOURCING RESOURCES THAT EVERY STARTUP FASHION BRAND SHOULD KNOW ABOUT  Speaking of digital sourcing . . .  Here are a few of the most buzzworthy online sourcing resources that every fashion startup founder should know about. Not only do they have deep connections to suppliers, but they also help you stay organized and on top of your communication and orders. Their promoted partners range from mega suppliers with huge MOQs to clothing manufacturers for small orders that are perfect for startup brands. But, they do have their downfalls. Fabric sourcing and garment manufacturing are very physical businesses - it’s important to see, feel, and touch the quality. So, be careful and understand the limitations when working online. SEWPORT “Built to support emerging brands and aspiring fashion designers who struggled to connect with the right clothing manufacturers to launch their businesses.” SEAMLESS SOURCE “We developed an automated omnichannel sourcing platform and integrated order management tool to help your brand build a digitalized, faster, leaner and more responsible supply chain, all in one place with industry-leading, reliable, responsible and sustainable suppliers across the globe.” FOURSOURCE “A global network that brings people, organizations, and innovative ideas together. We make textile sourcing smarter, transparent, and more sustainable.” (FYI - I DO NOT RECOMMEND MAKERS ROW AFTER 2 BAD EXPERIENCES WITH THE COMPANY AND THEIR CLOTHING MANUFACTURING SERVICES) THE BEST NON-TRADITIONAL SUPPLY CHAIN HACK TO FIND CLOTHING MANUFACTURERS FOR SMALL ORDERS Sample rooms and home sewers.  Sample rooms are like mini-factories, with one or two sewing machines. And an alternative to that would be a home sewer, just like it sounds, someone who sews from their home.  Now, the pro is that these apparel manufacturers are more than happy to take on really tiny production orders. The downside is that they might not be able to scale with you, so they are not always a long-term solution. When I tell founders to try out one of these options, I usually get pushback because they are convinced that if their product is not made in a traditional factory, it will not be professional or high quality.  But this is very false. Independent sewers are some of the best clothing manufacturers for small orders around! A lot of people (especially women) go out on their own after working in factories for years. They are highly trained and are starting their own mini businesses for the same reason you are starting your own clothing business. The freedom, control of their own paycheck, and all the other perks that come along with being a small business owner. I would even go as far as to argue that if you are into true women’s empowerment, this is the ONLY option to choose.  3 THINGS A MANUFACTURER NEEDS TO DO BEFORE YOU START WORKING WITH THEM You know - what you need to do and, how to find a manufacturer for your small business. Now, let’s discuss some things THEY should do before you decide to work with them. Remember, you are always in control of your supply chain. Yes, finding a supplier that is a good fit is hard. But I hate it when new brands start working with the first person that answers their emails.  You don’t just have to accept the first person that responds to you. Be picky! Just because your order is small doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have options. Or, that you shouldn't be able to vet your supplier properly. Be choosey. Before you start working with anyone, make sure to do these three things.  1. TALK TO REFERENCES If a factory tells you they sign NDAs so they can’t share clients with you, that is a blazing red flag.  Whenever a new supplier gives me this excuse, I respond, “I am sure you must have one client that you have become friends with over the years that would be happy to vouch for you.” If they don’t, I can’t stress this enough. Don’t work with them. 2. LOOK AT SAMPLES Most factories have showrooms with samples from past projects that they can show you. This can give you an idea about the type of garments they can make and prove that they can make good quality clothing for your brand.   While clothing manufacturers for small orders might have fewer examples to show than a big factory showroom, they should still have something. Quick tip. When you look at samples, you are not just looking at the quality, but also the type of garment. If you want to make swimsuits and every sample in the showroom is a t-shirt... Well, this factory might not be the best fit. 3. GIVE PRICING  It is impossible for clothing manufacturers for small orders to give you accurate pricing until they make your sample. They need to see how much fabric the garment consumes (the more fabric, the higher the price) and how long the garment takes to make (the longer it takes to sew, the higher the price).  But what they can do is tell you approximately how much it will cost. Because if your target price is $30 per garment in production and they are quoting $50, you know they won’t be a good fit. So, why waste your time sampling with them? ADDITIONAL SOURCING RESOURCES Here are a few more articles to check out for even more help. Where to source sustainable fabrics (list includes suppliers) Affordable mentorship options My favorite hack to launch your brand faster Tips for working with fabric suppliers Everything you need to know about tech packs WHAT DID YOU THINK? What step are you on in finding your perfect clothing manufacturing partner? Let me know in the comments. Source link

[ellajme0]

Looking for clothing manufacturers for small orders to help take your fashion brand from idea to made? New brands are often intimidated by the high MOQs - lowest minimum order quantities - that many of the well-known factories demand. So they feel like they are left with only two options – invest heavily in large quantities of inventory or give up.  It might take a little extra work, but I want you to know there are small batch clothing manufacturers out there that are perfect for your small business.  This blog post is going to teach you how to find and work with clothing manufacturers for small businesses in two parts. First, I will teach you best practices for working with small quantity clothing manufacturers; then I will share a few of my favorites. Here is why the first part is soooo important.  Just because you have the email address, or direct phone number to an amazing factory, that doesn’t mean they will want to work with you. Competition to get into good factories is steep, and making a good first impression is critical. Think of it this way. It’s like getting a resi to an amazing restaurant, you wait 2 weeks to get to go, then you show up and can’t get in because you didn’t know about the dress code. So, close yet so far. I want factories excited to work with you (not ignoring you), so please don’t skip this first part.  I am here to help you on your clothing business journey, and sometimes that means not just giving you the info you are looking for, but even more!   BUT BEFORE WE GET STARTED... I love helping startup brand founders succeed, so I created a bunch of free guides that will help you with your business. They won’t be free forever, so make sure to grab them while you can. In this post, you will learn: Why finding a clothing manufacturer with low minimum orders is hard  3 things you need to do, to turn a no from a factory into a yes The best sourcing trip you can take for your small business Online sourcing resources I love to find clothing manufacturers for small orders Nontraditional supply chain options perfect for small brands 3 things a manufacturer must do before you work with them (I know, it can feel like such a relief when someone finally says yet to you - but you still need to do your due diligence) Additional resources to help you even more NO TIME TO READ? CHECK OUT THIS 60 SECOND SLIDE DECK   WHY ARE FASHION MANUFACTURING MOQs SO HIGH? First things first . . .  Quick reminder – MOQ means minimum order quantity, or the minimum amount you need to order for a factory to agree to work with you. The reality is it takes a factory the same amount of effort to source and develop styles for an order of 10 shirts as it does for an order of 10,000. Sounds crazy, but it's true. Let me explain. There are nine steps leading up to a style moving to production, and these steps are exactly the same no matter what size the production order is. If you want to learn more about each step, you can check out this article. But to quickly recap it – here are all the things that need to happen. Pattern making Fit samples  Fit sample revisions Pattern revisions Fabric, trim, and component sourcing (sometimes working with up to 10 different supply chain partners to get everything needed to make a garment - from fabric to thread to labels and tags) Fabric, trim, and component sampling Proto samples/production quality sample (includes ordering sample fabric, trim, etc.) Pattern grading Ordering all components and organizing shipping and logistics to the factory A LOT of time, energy, and resources (read money) go into all of this. And again, it’s the same whether a factory is making 10 garments or a million.  So, from just a staying-in-business perspective, some factories need to have high MOQs just to cover the cost of all the development and pre-production work that goes into sampling. IF IT COSTS SO MUCH TO DEVELOP, HOW ARE FACTORIES ABLE TO TAKE ON SMALL MOQs? Traditionally, a factory will charge a client about 2x the bulk production rate for sampling, including pattern making, sourcing, and the whole shebang. So if a shirt costs $10 in production, the sample will cost $20. The factory ends up losing a lot of money. But there is this unspoken deal in the industry that if you sample with someone, you will work with them in production. And in production, the factory will make back the sampling costs, plus a lot in profits. This is also why factories don’t really like working with startups – there is no guarantee the brand will ever launch, give them a bulk order, and help the factory recoup the money spent on product development.  Now, if a factory is making tiny MOQs, there is no way they can sustain this, so manufacturing partners that help startups with small orders charge a fair rate for the costs of the sampling. So instead of $20, factories might charge $200 or more for the same sample with a low MOQ. And, this way, you can make as little as 10 pieces if you want to – because they aren’t relying on that bulk order to make their money back. Now, please don’t get any cute ideas and try to lie and say you are going to make big MOQs to get cheap sampling. It’s a great way to burn bridges and get a terrible reputation in the fashion manufacturing world. We all talk, we all know each other, and you don’t want factories to start deleting your emails without even opening them because they know you lied to their friend about big orders that never came last season. DO THESE 3 THINGS BEFORE YOU START WORKING WITH A SMALL BATCH CLOTHING MANUFACTURER Now that you understand why finding a low MOQ factory can be difficult, I want to help prepare you to make the best first impression possible. So, before you press send on that email, I need you to do these three things. Remember low MOQ factories are scarce, and there are more and more people starting brands every day. Some factories even have 3-month waits, before they will even schedule the first meeting with you. So, this means you need to stand out as a professional. TASK 1 - CREATE A BUDGET  This is the most important thing you can do for the success of your brand. And it is often the most overlooked.  If you don’t have a budget, you can’t get started. One more time for the people in the back – even if you plan to crowdfund, you still need a budget. Because crowdfunding is unpredictable, you could raise $100 or thousands. Your budget is what is going to allow you to estimate the number of styles you can afford to make and your MOQ. The point of your budget at this time isn’t to figure everything out to the penny. It’s just to get a general idea. By the end of your first budgeting exercise, you should be able to say, “With the money I have, I can afford to make about x styles in y colors and place a production order of z pieces per style. Now, a lot of new founders think they need to talk to a factory to figure this out.  You don’t.  In this post about working with fabric suppliers, I break down exactly how to estimate your costs without ever having to contact a supplier. The bottom line? When you set a budget, you set yourself up for success. I have helped over 200 people start their fashion businesses, and I can tell you this – the ones that have a solid budget are much more likely to succeed than the brands that don’t. Because, at the end of the day, it doesn’t matter how good your idea is, or how much the world needs it if you run out of money.  And knowing your budget looks good to manufacturing partners. Because when you can show them your have taken the time to make a budget, they trust you will make it past sampling and into production (again, production is where clothing manufacturers for small orders will be making most of their profits). TASK 2: NAIL DOWN YOUR DESIGNS You need to know what you want to make. And not just a vague idea. Your designs should be nailed down and about 90% finalized before you start talking to custom clothing manufacturers. That is because the factory you work with will be determined by the designs. There are some clothing manufacturers for small orders that make everything, but most factories are very specialized. They only make one type of product, whether it's woven women's wear, t-shirts, or swimsuits. Some factories will not work with luxury fabrics like silk and satin, while others only do that.  A lot of times, I see new founders thinking they found the perfect supplier.But once they finalize their designs and send them to the factory, the factory says, “Sorry, we don’t do those types of styles.” (It actually happens way more than you think). I know, I get it. You’re probably very anxious about finding a factory and checking that off your to-do list. But finalizing your designs will save you time in the long run. TASK 3: DECIDE WHERE YOU WANT YOUR CLOTHES TO BE MADE Where in the world do you want to make your product?  Some parts of the world specialize in different types of products. An example of this is with swimwear – there are actually five major hubs of swimwear production, they are – the USA, China, Brazil, Bali, and Italy. If you want to learn more about the pros and cons of deciding where to make your clothing line, you can check out this article. The reason you want to decide where you want your clothes to be made first is because, domestic and overseas clothing manufacturers opperate very differently. And, you you try to research both at the same time you will probably end up feeling overwhelmed. THE BIG QUESTION - Domestic Clothing Manufacturers vs. Overseas Here is my opinion on this great debate.  For startup brands, I recommend getting started close to home for not just one, but three different reasons. 1. Work in person without time zone or communication issues. I like to call this face time. No, not the video calling thing, but actually spending time with your factory in person.  What over a decade in this industry has taught me is that anything is possible and everything is negotiable. That is, if your supply chain partner likes you. And the best way to get them to like you and build a strong working relationship with you is to spend time with them in person. Sorry, Zoom, the digital stuff will never replace IRL, IMO. When I worked in fast fashion, I can’t tell you how many times my boss would beg a factory to do something for him, and the factory would refuse. Then I would ask, and they would be like, “sure” (because they liked me).  The other benefit of working with a factory close to home is that you won’t have language barriers. Different countries communicate in different ways and have their own fashion industry lingo. For example, what most of us know as a clothing seam is often called a joint in India. Speaking the same language makes learning a new fashion language a lot easier. 2. Save on shipping and logistics prices. Shipping these days is expensive. And if you are shipping fabric swatches, lab dips, strike-offs, samples, and all the product development things halfway across the world, those costs are going to add up quickly.  Even though the production cost in developing countries tends to be much lower than in the West, by the time brands factor in all the development costs and shipping, they aren’t actually saving very much money. 3. No cultural learning curve, holidays, etc. When you work in a different country for the first year or two, you are going to be constantly surprised.  Random holidays you had no idea existed and even the weather are going to delay your timelines. One thing most people don’t realize when working in India is how slow things become in the monsoon. Yeah, during the fall, they might be able to crank out your order in a month, but during the rainy season, good luck – another month to two could be added to your calendar.  Once a brand is a few seasons in, their orders are growing, and they’re learning the ins and outs of the garment manufacturing world, then they can start exploring overseas options. Now, if you want to skip straight to overseas, I suggest hiring someone to help manage your project who knows the lay of the land. I offer private consulting, which you can check out here. To sum it all up - the reason small businesses often have more luck finding a manufacturer close to home for the small orders is because it is just easier.  Overseas partners often feel like not only are they spending time teaching new brands the ins and outs of getting their garments made, but also have to offer them a crash course in the local culture. It’s just too much free work for them.  For example every time I have a new client working in India for the first time, that first bank transfer is painful. Something as simiple as paying a deposit becomes a days long tutorial (sorry we don’t have Zelle, Venmo, or even Paypal here). THE ONLY GARMENT SOURCING TRIP YOU SHOULD PLAN Trade shows! I have said it before, and I’ll say it again. I love trade shows. Here is a list of my favorite textile trade shows. And, this is why trade shows are so great. They are a one-stop shop for global suppliers who actually want to work with you. So much so, that these suppliers are paying tens of thousands of dollars to travel and participate in the shows. Back in the day, tradeshow suppliers were mostly focused on big orders. But, times have changed, and that is no longer the case. Some shows even have special fashion startup areas that feature clothing manufacturers for small orders. And when you attend a trade show, there are also tons of free seminars and talks. So they are a great place to get educated at no cost to you. If your budget for your brand is going to restrict your ability to travel, going to a trade show is what I would spend those limited dollars on. Can’t make it to a show live? Most trade shows now have digital components as well. So, you can check out digital showrooms and chat with suppliers on their websites from your home. ONLINE SOURCING RESOURCES THAT EVERY STARTUP FASHION BRAND SHOULD KNOW ABOUT  Speaking of digital sourcing . . .  Here are a few of the most buzzworthy online sourcing resources that every fashion startup founder should know about. Not only do they have deep connections to suppliers, but they also help you stay organized and on top of your communication and orders. Their promoted partners range from mega suppliers with huge MOQs to clothing manufacturers for small orders that are perfect for startup brands. But, they do have their downfalls. Fabric sourcing and garment manufacturing are very physical businesses - it’s important to see, feel, and touch the quality. So, be careful and understand the limitations when working online. SEWPORT “Built to support emerging brands and aspiring fashion designers who struggled to connect with the right clothing manufacturers to launch their businesses.” SEAMLESS SOURCE “We developed an automated omnichannel sourcing platform and integrated order management tool to help your brand build a digitalized, faster, leaner and more responsible supply chain, all in one place with industry-leading, reliable, responsible and sustainable suppliers across the globe.” FOURSOURCE “A global network that brings people, organizations, and innovative ideas together. We make textile sourcing smarter, transparent, and more sustainable.” (FYI - I DO NOT RECOMMEND MAKERS ROW AFTER 2 BAD EXPERIENCES WITH THE COMPANY AND THEIR CLOTHING MANUFACTURING SERVICES) THE BEST NON-TRADITIONAL SUPPLY CHAIN HACK TO FIND CLOTHING MANUFACTURERS FOR SMALL ORDERS Sample rooms and home sewers.  Sample rooms are like mini-factories, with one or two sewing machines. And an alternative to that would be a home sewer, just like it sounds, someone who sews from their home.  Now, the pro is that these apparel manufacturers are more than happy to take on really tiny production orders. The downside is that they might not be able to scale with you, so they are not always a long-term solution. When I tell founders to try out one of these options, I usually get pushback because they are convinced that if their product is not made in a traditional factory, it will not be professional or high quality.  But this is very false. Independent sewers are some of the best clothing manufacturers for small orders around! A lot of people (especially women) go out on their own after working in factories for years. They are highly trained and are starting their own mini businesses for the same reason you are starting your own clothing business. The freedom, control of their own paycheck, and all the other perks that come along with being a small business owner. I would even go as far as to argue that if you are into true women’s empowerment, this is the ONLY option to choose.  3 THINGS A MANUFACTURER NEEDS TO DO BEFORE YOU START WORKING WITH THEM You know - what you need to do and, how to find a manufacturer for your small business. Now, let’s discuss some things THEY should do before you decide to work with them. Remember, you are always in control of your supply chain. Yes, finding a supplier that is a good fit is hard. But I hate it when new brands start working with the first person that answers their emails.  You don’t just have to accept the first person that responds to you. Be picky! Just because your order is small doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have options. Or, that you shouldn't be able to vet your supplier properly. Be choosey. Before you start working with anyone, make sure to do these three things.  1. TALK TO REFERENCES If a factory tells you they sign NDAs so they can’t share clients with you, that is a blazing red flag.  Whenever a new supplier gives me this excuse, I respond, “I am sure you must have one client that you have become friends with over the years that would be happy to vouch for you.” If they don’t, I can’t stress this enough. Don’t work with them. 2. LOOK AT SAMPLES Most factories have showrooms with samples from past projects that they can show you. This can give you an idea about the type of garments they can make and prove that they can make good quality clothing for your brand.   While clothing manufacturers for small orders might have fewer examples to show than a big factory showroom, they should still have something. Quick tip. When you look at samples, you are not just looking at the quality, but also the type of garment. If you want to make swimsuits and every sample in the showroom is a t-shirt... Well, this factory might not be the best fit. 3. GIVE PRICING  It is impossible for clothing manufacturers for small orders to give you accurate pricing until they make your sample. They need to see how much fabric the garment consumes (the more fabric, the higher the price) and how long the garment takes to make (the longer it takes to sew, the higher the price).  But what they can do is tell you approximately how much it will cost. Because if your target price is $30 per garment in production and they are quoting $50, you know they won’t be a good fit. So, why waste your time sampling with them? ADDITIONAL SOURCING RESOURCES Here are a few more articles to check out for even more help. Where to source sustainable fabrics (list includes suppliers) Affordable mentorship options My favorite hack to launch your brand faster Tips for working with fabric suppliers Everything you need to know about tech packs WHAT DID YOU THINK? What step are you on in finding your perfect clothing manufacturing partner? Let me know in the comments. Source link

[chilimili212]

Looking for clothing manufacturers for small orders to help take your fashion brand from idea to made? New brands are often intimidated by the high MOQs - lowest minimum order quantities - that many of the well-known factories demand. So they feel like they are left with only two options – invest heavily in large quantities of inventory or give up.  It might take a little extra work, but I want you to know there are small batch clothing manufacturers out there that are perfect for your small business.  This blog post is going to teach you how to find and work with clothing manufacturers for small businesses in two parts. First, I will teach you best practices for working with small quantity clothing manufacturers; then I will share a few of my favorites. Here is why the first part is soooo important.  Just because you have the email address, or direct phone number to an amazing factory, that doesn’t mean they will want to work with you. Competition to get into good factories is steep, and making a good first impression is critical. Think of it this way. It’s like getting a resi to an amazing restaurant, you wait 2 weeks to get to go, then you show up and can’t get in because you didn’t know about the dress code. So, close yet so far. I want factories excited to work with you (not ignoring you), so please don’t skip this first part.  I am here to help you on your clothing business journey, and sometimes that means not just giving you the info you are looking for, but even more!   BUT BEFORE WE GET STARTED... I love helping startup brand founders succeed, so I created a bunch of free guides that will help you with your business. They won’t be free forever, so make sure to grab them while you can. In this post, you will learn: Why finding a clothing manufacturer with low minimum orders is hard  3 things you need to do, to turn a no from a factory into a yes The best sourcing trip you can take for your small business Online sourcing resources I love to find clothing manufacturers for small orders Nontraditional supply chain options perfect for small brands 3 things a manufacturer must do before you work with them (I know, it can feel like such a relief when someone finally says yet to you - but you still need to do your due diligence) Additional resources to help you even more NO TIME TO READ? CHECK OUT THIS 60 SECOND SLIDE DECK   WHY ARE FASHION MANUFACTURING MOQs SO HIGH? First things first . . .  Quick reminder – MOQ means minimum order quantity, or the minimum amount you need to order for a factory to agree to work with you. The reality is it takes a factory the same amount of effort to source and develop styles for an order of 10 shirts as it does for an order of 10,000. Sounds crazy, but it's true. Let me explain. There are nine steps leading up to a style moving to production, and these steps are exactly the same no matter what size the production order is. If you want to learn more about each step, you can check out this article. But to quickly recap it – here are all the things that need to happen. Pattern making Fit samples  Fit sample revisions Pattern revisions Fabric, trim, and component sourcing (sometimes working with up to 10 different supply chain partners to get everything needed to make a garment - from fabric to thread to labels and tags) Fabric, trim, and component sampling Proto samples/production quality sample (includes ordering sample fabric, trim, etc.) Pattern grading Ordering all components and organizing shipping and logistics to the factory A LOT of time, energy, and resources (read money) go into all of this. And again, it’s the same whether a factory is making 10 garments or a million.  So, from just a staying-in-business perspective, some factories need to have high MOQs just to cover the cost of all the development and pre-production work that goes into sampling. IF IT COSTS SO MUCH TO DEVELOP, HOW ARE FACTORIES ABLE TO TAKE ON SMALL MOQs? Traditionally, a factory will charge a client about 2x the bulk production rate for sampling, including pattern making, sourcing, and the whole shebang. So if a shirt costs $10 in production, the sample will cost $20. The factory ends up losing a lot of money. But there is this unspoken deal in the industry that if you sample with someone, you will work with them in production. And in production, the factory will make back the sampling costs, plus a lot in profits. This is also why factories don’t really like working with startups – there is no guarantee the brand will ever launch, give them a bulk order, and help the factory recoup the money spent on product development.  Now, if a factory is making tiny MOQs, there is no way they can sustain this, so manufacturing partners that help startups with small orders charge a fair rate for the costs of the sampling. So instead of $20, factories might charge $200 or more for the same sample with a low MOQ. And, this way, you can make as little as 10 pieces if you want to – because they aren’t relying on that bulk order to make their money back. Now, please don’t get any cute ideas and try to lie and say you are going to make big MOQs to get cheap sampling. It’s a great way to burn bridges and get a terrible reputation in the fashion manufacturing world. We all talk, we all know each other, and you don’t want factories to start deleting your emails without even opening them because they know you lied to their friend about big orders that never came last season. DO THESE 3 THINGS BEFORE YOU START WORKING WITH A SMALL BATCH CLOTHING MANUFACTURER Now that you understand why finding a low MOQ factory can be difficult, I want to help prepare you to make the best first impression possible. So, before you press send on that email, I need you to do these three things. Remember low MOQ factories are scarce, and there are more and more people starting brands every day. Some factories even have 3-month waits, before they will even schedule the first meeting with you. So, this means you need to stand out as a professional. TASK 1 - CREATE A BUDGET  This is the most important thing you can do for the success of your brand. And it is often the most overlooked.  If you don’t have a budget, you can’t get started. One more time for the people in the back – even if you plan to crowdfund, you still need a budget. Because crowdfunding is unpredictable, you could raise $100 or thousands. Your budget is what is going to allow you to estimate the number of styles you can afford to make and your MOQ. The point of your budget at this time isn’t to figure everything out to the penny. It’s just to get a general idea. By the end of your first budgeting exercise, you should be able to say, “With the money I have, I can afford to make about x styles in y colors and place a production order of z pieces per style. Now, a lot of new founders think they need to talk to a factory to figure this out.  You don’t.  In this post about working with fabric suppliers, I break down exactly how to estimate your costs without ever having to contact a supplier. The bottom line? When you set a budget, you set yourself up for success. I have helped over 200 people start their fashion businesses, and I can tell you this – the ones that have a solid budget are much more likely to succeed than the brands that don’t. Because, at the end of the day, it doesn’t matter how good your idea is, or how much the world needs it if you run out of money.  And knowing your budget looks good to manufacturing partners. Because when you can show them your have taken the time to make a budget, they trust you will make it past sampling and into production (again, production is where clothing manufacturers for small orders will be making most of their profits). TASK 2: NAIL DOWN YOUR DESIGNS You need to know what you want to make. And not just a vague idea. Your designs should be nailed down and about 90% finalized before you start talking to custom clothing manufacturers. That is because the factory you work with will be determined by the designs. There are some clothing manufacturers for small orders that make everything, but most factories are very specialized. They only make one type of product, whether it's woven women's wear, t-shirts, or swimsuits. Some factories will not work with luxury fabrics like silk and satin, while others only do that.  A lot of times, I see new founders thinking they found the perfect supplier.But once they finalize their designs and send them to the factory, the factory says, “Sorry, we don’t do those types of styles.” (It actually happens way more than you think). I know, I get it. You’re probably very anxious about finding a factory and checking that off your to-do list. But finalizing your designs will save you time in the long run. TASK 3: DECIDE WHERE YOU WANT YOUR CLOTHES TO BE MADE Where in the world do you want to make your product?  Some parts of the world specialize in different types of products. An example of this is with swimwear – there are actually five major hubs of swimwear production, they are – the USA, China, Brazil, Bali, and Italy. If you want to learn more about the pros and cons of deciding where to make your clothing line, you can check out this article. The reason you want to decide where you want your clothes to be made first is because, domestic and overseas clothing manufacturers opperate very differently. And, you you try to research both at the same time you will probably end up feeling overwhelmed. THE BIG QUESTION - Domestic Clothing Manufacturers vs. Overseas Here is my opinion on this great debate.  For startup brands, I recommend getting started close to home for not just one, but three different reasons. 1. Work in person without time zone or communication issues. I like to call this face time. No, not the video calling thing, but actually spending time with your factory in person.  What over a decade in this industry has taught me is that anything is possible and everything is negotiable. That is, if your supply chain partner likes you. And the best way to get them to like you and build a strong working relationship with you is to spend time with them in person. Sorry, Zoom, the digital stuff will never replace IRL, IMO. When I worked in fast fashion, I can’t tell you how many times my boss would beg a factory to do something for him, and the factory would refuse. Then I would ask, and they would be like, “sure” (because they liked me).  The other benefit of working with a factory close to home is that you won’t have language barriers. Different countries communicate in different ways and have their own fashion industry lingo. For example, what most of us know as a clothing seam is often called a joint in India. Speaking the same language makes learning a new fashion language a lot easier. 2. Save on shipping and logistics prices. Shipping these days is expensive. And if you are shipping fabric swatches, lab dips, strike-offs, samples, and all the product development things halfway across the world, those costs are going to add up quickly.  Even though the production cost in developing countries tends to be much lower than in the West, by the time brands factor in all the development costs and shipping, they aren’t actually saving very much money. 3. No cultural learning curve, holidays, etc. When you work in a different country for the first year or two, you are going to be constantly surprised.  Random holidays you had no idea existed and even the weather are going to delay your timelines. One thing most people don’t realize when working in India is how slow things become in the monsoon. Yeah, during the fall, they might be able to crank out your order in a month, but during the rainy season, good luck – another month to two could be added to your calendar.  Once a brand is a few seasons in, their orders are growing, and they’re learning the ins and outs of the garment manufacturing world, then they can start exploring overseas options. Now, if you want to skip straight to overseas, I suggest hiring someone to help manage your project who knows the lay of the land. I offer private consulting, which you can check out here. To sum it all up - the reason small businesses often have more luck finding a manufacturer close to home for the small orders is because it is just easier.  Overseas partners often feel like not only are they spending time teaching new brands the ins and outs of getting their garments made, but also have to offer them a crash course in the local culture. It’s just too much free work for them.  For example every time I have a new client working in India for the first time, that first bank transfer is painful. Something as simiple as paying a deposit becomes a days long tutorial (sorry we don’t have Zelle, Venmo, or even Paypal here). THE ONLY GARMENT SOURCING TRIP YOU SHOULD PLAN Trade shows! I have said it before, and I’ll say it again. I love trade shows. Here is a list of my favorite textile trade shows. And, this is why trade shows are so great. They are a one-stop shop for global suppliers who actually want to work with you. So much so, that these suppliers are paying tens of thousands of dollars to travel and participate in the shows. Back in the day, tradeshow suppliers were mostly focused on big orders. But, times have changed, and that is no longer the case. Some shows even have special fashion startup areas that feature clothing manufacturers for small orders. And when you attend a trade show, there are also tons of free seminars and talks. So they are a great place to get educated at no cost to you. If your budget for your brand is going to restrict your ability to travel, going to a trade show is what I would spend those limited dollars on. Can’t make it to a show live? Most trade shows now have digital components as well. So, you can check out digital showrooms and chat with suppliers on their websites from your home. ONLINE SOURCING RESOURCES THAT EVERY STARTUP FASHION BRAND SHOULD KNOW ABOUT  Speaking of digital sourcing . . .  Here are a few of the most buzzworthy online sourcing resources that every fashion startup founder should know about. Not only do they have deep connections to suppliers, but they also help you stay organized and on top of your communication and orders. Their promoted partners range from mega suppliers with huge MOQs to clothing manufacturers for small orders that are perfect for startup brands. But, they do have their downfalls. Fabric sourcing and garment manufacturing are very physical businesses - it’s important to see, feel, and touch the quality. So, be careful and understand the limitations when working online. SEWPORT “Built to support emerging brands and aspiring fashion designers who struggled to connect with the right clothing manufacturers to launch their businesses.” SEAMLESS SOURCE “We developed an automated omnichannel sourcing platform and integrated order management tool to help your brand build a digitalized, faster, leaner and more responsible supply chain, all in one place with industry-leading, reliable, responsible and sustainable suppliers across the globe.” FOURSOURCE “A global network that brings people, organizations, and innovative ideas together. We make textile sourcing smarter, transparent, and more sustainable.” (FYI - I DO NOT RECOMMEND MAKERS ROW AFTER 2 BAD EXPERIENCES WITH THE COMPANY AND THEIR CLOTHING MANUFACTURING SERVICES) THE BEST NON-TRADITIONAL SUPPLY CHAIN HACK TO FIND CLOTHING MANUFACTURERS FOR SMALL ORDERS Sample rooms and home sewers.  Sample rooms are like mini-factories, with one or two sewing machines. And an alternative to that would be a home sewer, just like it sounds, someone who sews from their home.  Now, the pro is that these apparel manufacturers are more than happy to take on really tiny production orders. The downside is that they might not be able to scale with you, so they are not always a long-term solution. When I tell founders to try out one of these options, I usually get pushback because they are convinced that if their product is not made in a traditional factory, it will not be professional or high quality.  But this is very false. Independent sewers are some of the best clothing manufacturers for small orders around! A lot of people (especially women) go out on their own after working in factories for years. They are highly trained and are starting their own mini businesses for the same reason you are starting your own clothing business. The freedom, control of their own paycheck, and all the other perks that come along with being a small business owner. I would even go as far as to argue that if you are into true women’s empowerment, this is the ONLY option to choose.  3 THINGS A MANUFACTURER NEEDS TO DO BEFORE YOU START WORKING WITH THEM You know - what you need to do and, how to find a manufacturer for your small business. Now, let’s discuss some things THEY should do before you decide to work with them. Remember, you are always in control of your supply chain. Yes, finding a supplier that is a good fit is hard. But I hate it when new brands start working with the first person that answers their emails.  You don’t just have to accept the first person that responds to you. Be picky! Just because your order is small doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have options. Or, that you shouldn't be able to vet your supplier properly. Be choosey. Before you start working with anyone, make sure to do these three things.  1. TALK TO REFERENCES If a factory tells you they sign NDAs so they can’t share clients with you, that is a blazing red flag.  Whenever a new supplier gives me this excuse, I respond, “I am sure you must have one client that you have become friends with over the years that would be happy to vouch for you.” If they don’t, I can’t stress this enough. Don’t work with them. 2. LOOK AT SAMPLES Most factories have showrooms with samples from past projects that they can show you. This can give you an idea about the type of garments they can make and prove that they can make good quality clothing for your brand.   While clothing manufacturers for small orders might have fewer examples to show than a big factory showroom, they should still have something. Quick tip. When you look at samples, you are not just looking at the quality, but also the type of garment. If you want to make swimsuits and every sample in the showroom is a t-shirt... Well, this factory might not be the best fit. 3. GIVE PRICING  It is impossible for clothing manufacturers for small orders to give you accurate pricing until they make your sample. They need to see how much fabric the garment consumes (the more fabric, the higher the price) and how long the garment takes to make (the longer it takes to sew, the higher the price).  But what they can do is tell you approximately how much it will cost. Because if your target price is $30 per garment in production and they are quoting $50, you know they won’t be a good fit. So, why waste your time sampling with them? ADDITIONAL SOURCING RESOURCES Here are a few more articles to check out for even more help. Where to source sustainable fabrics (list includes suppliers) Affordable mentorship options My favorite hack to launch your brand faster Tips for working with fabric suppliers Everything you need to know about tech packs WHAT DID YOU THINK? What step are you on in finding your perfect clothing manufacturing partner? Let me know in the comments. Source link

[oliviajoyice21]

Looking for clothing manufacturers for small orders to help take your fashion brand from idea to made? New brands are often intimidated by the high MOQs - lowest minimum order quantities - that many of the well-known factories demand. So they feel like they are left with only two options – invest heavily in large quantities of inventory or give up.  It might take a little extra work, but I want you to know there are small batch clothing manufacturers out there that are perfect for your small business.  This blog post is going to teach you how to find and work with clothing manufacturers for small businesses in two parts. First, I will teach you best practices for working with small quantity clothing manufacturers; then I will share a few of my favorites. Here is why the first part is soooo important.  Just because you have the email address, or direct phone number to an amazing factory, that doesn’t mean they will want to work with you. Competition to get into good factories is steep, and making a good first impression is critical. Think of it this way. It’s like getting a resi to an amazing restaurant, you wait 2 weeks to get to go, then you show up and can’t get in because you didn’t know about the dress code. So, close yet so far. I want factories excited to work with you (not ignoring you), so please don’t skip this first part.  I am here to help you on your clothing business journey, and sometimes that means not just giving you the info you are looking for, but even more!   BUT BEFORE WE GET STARTED... I love helping startup brand founders succeed, so I created a bunch of free guides that will help you with your business. They won’t be free forever, so make sure to grab them while you can. In this post, you will learn: Why finding a clothing manufacturer with low minimum orders is hard  3 things you need to do, to turn a no from a factory into a yes The best sourcing trip you can take for your small business Online sourcing resources I love to find clothing manufacturers for small orders Nontraditional supply chain options perfect for small brands 3 things a manufacturer must do before you work with them (I know, it can feel like such a relief when someone finally says yet to you - but you still need to do your due diligence) Additional resources to help you even more NO TIME TO READ? CHECK OUT THIS 60 SECOND SLIDE DECK   WHY ARE FASHION MANUFACTURING MOQs SO HIGH? First things first . . .  Quick reminder – MOQ means minimum order quantity, or the minimum amount you need to order for a factory to agree to work with you. The reality is it takes a factory the same amount of effort to source and develop styles for an order of 10 shirts as it does for an order of 10,000. Sounds crazy, but it's true. Let me explain. There are nine steps leading up to a style moving to production, and these steps are exactly the same no matter what size the production order is. If you want to learn more about each step, you can check out this article. But to quickly recap it – here are all the things that need to happen. Pattern making Fit samples  Fit sample revisions Pattern revisions Fabric, trim, and component sourcing (sometimes working with up to 10 different supply chain partners to get everything needed to make a garment - from fabric to thread to labels and tags) Fabric, trim, and component sampling Proto samples/production quality sample (includes ordering sample fabric, trim, etc.) Pattern grading Ordering all components and organizing shipping and logistics to the factory A LOT of time, energy, and resources (read money) go into all of this. And again, it’s the same whether a factory is making 10 garments or a million.  So, from just a staying-in-business perspective, some factories need to have high MOQs just to cover the cost of all the development and pre-production work that goes into sampling. IF IT COSTS SO MUCH TO DEVELOP, HOW ARE FACTORIES ABLE TO TAKE ON SMALL MOQs? Traditionally, a factory will charge a client about 2x the bulk production rate for sampling, including pattern making, sourcing, and the whole shebang. So if a shirt costs $10 in production, the sample will cost $20. The factory ends up losing a lot of money. But there is this unspoken deal in the industry that if you sample with someone, you will work with them in production. And in production, the factory will make back the sampling costs, plus a lot in profits. This is also why factories don’t really like working with startups – there is no guarantee the brand will ever launch, give them a bulk order, and help the factory recoup the money spent on product development.  Now, if a factory is making tiny MOQs, there is no way they can sustain this, so manufacturing partners that help startups with small orders charge a fair rate for the costs of the sampling. So instead of $20, factories might charge $200 or more for the same sample with a low MOQ. And, this way, you can make as little as 10 pieces if you want to – because they aren’t relying on that bulk order to make their money back. Now, please don’t get any cute ideas and try to lie and say you are going to make big MOQs to get cheap sampling. It’s a great way to burn bridges and get a terrible reputation in the fashion manufacturing world. We all talk, we all know each other, and you don’t want factories to start deleting your emails without even opening them because they know you lied to their friend about big orders that never came last season. DO THESE 3 THINGS BEFORE YOU START WORKING WITH A SMALL BATCH CLOTHING MANUFACTURER Now that you understand why finding a low MOQ factory can be difficult, I want to help prepare you to make the best first impression possible. So, before you press send on that email, I need you to do these three things. Remember low MOQ factories are scarce, and there are more and more people starting brands every day. Some factories even have 3-month waits, before they will even schedule the first meeting with you. So, this means you need to stand out as a professional. TASK 1 - CREATE A BUDGET  This is the most important thing you can do for the success of your brand. And it is often the most overlooked.  If you don’t have a budget, you can’t get started. One more time for the people in the back – even if you plan to crowdfund, you still need a budget. Because crowdfunding is unpredictable, you could raise $100 or thousands. Your budget is what is going to allow you to estimate the number of styles you can afford to make and your MOQ. The point of your budget at this time isn’t to figure everything out to the penny. It’s just to get a general idea. By the end of your first budgeting exercise, you should be able to say, “With the money I have, I can afford to make about x styles in y colors and place a production order of z pieces per style. Now, a lot of new founders think they need to talk to a factory to figure this out.  You don’t.  In this post about working with fabric suppliers, I break down exactly how to estimate your costs without ever having to contact a supplier. The bottom line? When you set a budget, you set yourself up for success. I have helped over 200 people start their fashion businesses, and I can tell you this – the ones that have a solid budget are much more likely to succeed than the brands that don’t. Because, at the end of the day, it doesn’t matter how good your idea is, or how much the world needs it if you run out of money.  And knowing your budget looks good to manufacturing partners. Because when you can show them your have taken the time to make a budget, they trust you will make it past sampling and into production (again, production is where clothing manufacturers for small orders will be making most of their profits). TASK 2: NAIL DOWN YOUR DESIGNS You need to know what you want to make. And not just a vague idea. Your designs should be nailed down and about 90% finalized before you start talking to custom clothing manufacturers. That is because the factory you work with will be determined by the designs. There are some clothing manufacturers for small orders that make everything, but most factories are very specialized. They only make one type of product, whether it's woven women's wear, t-shirts, or swimsuits. Some factories will not work with luxury fabrics like silk and satin, while others only do that.  A lot of times, I see new founders thinking they found the perfect supplier.But once they finalize their designs and send them to the factory, the factory says, “Sorry, we don’t do those types of styles.” (It actually happens way more than you think). I know, I get it. You’re probably very anxious about finding a factory and checking that off your to-do list. But finalizing your designs will save you time in the long run. TASK 3: DECIDE WHERE YOU WANT YOUR CLOTHES TO BE MADE Where in the world do you want to make your product?  Some parts of the world specialize in different types of products. An example of this is with swimwear – there are actually five major hubs of swimwear production, they are – the USA, China, Brazil, Bali, and Italy. If you want to learn more about the pros and cons of deciding where to make your clothing line, you can check out this article. The reason you want to decide where you want your clothes to be made first is because, domestic and overseas clothing manufacturers opperate very differently. And, you you try to research both at the same time you will probably end up feeling overwhelmed. THE BIG QUESTION - Domestic Clothing Manufacturers vs. Overseas Here is my opinion on this great debate.  For startup brands, I recommend getting started close to home for not just one, but three different reasons. 1. Work in person without time zone or communication issues. I like to call this face time. No, not the video calling thing, but actually spending time with your factory in person.  What over a decade in this industry has taught me is that anything is possible and everything is negotiable. That is, if your supply chain partner likes you. And the best way to get them to like you and build a strong working relationship with you is to spend time with them in person. Sorry, Zoom, the digital stuff will never replace IRL, IMO. When I worked in fast fashion, I can’t tell you how many times my boss would beg a factory to do something for him, and the factory would refuse. Then I would ask, and they would be like, “sure” (because they liked me).  The other benefit of working with a factory close to home is that you won’t have language barriers. Different countries communicate in different ways and have their own fashion industry lingo. For example, what most of us know as a clothing seam is often called a joint in India. Speaking the same language makes learning a new fashion language a lot easier. 2. Save on shipping and logistics prices. Shipping these days is expensive. And if you are shipping fabric swatches, lab dips, strike-offs, samples, and all the product development things halfway across the world, those costs are going to add up quickly.  Even though the production cost in developing countries tends to be much lower than in the West, by the time brands factor in all the development costs and shipping, they aren’t actually saving very much money. 3. No cultural learning curve, holidays, etc. When you work in a different country for the first year or two, you are going to be constantly surprised.  Random holidays you had no idea existed and even the weather are going to delay your timelines. One thing most people don’t realize when working in India is how slow things become in the monsoon. Yeah, during the fall, they might be able to crank out your order in a month, but during the rainy season, good luck – another month to two could be added to your calendar.  Once a brand is a few seasons in, their orders are growing, and they’re learning the ins and outs of the garment manufacturing world, then they can start exploring overseas options. Now, if you want to skip straight to overseas, I suggest hiring someone to help manage your project who knows the lay of the land. I offer private consulting, which you can check out here. To sum it all up - the reason small businesses often have more luck finding a manufacturer close to home for the small orders is because it is just easier.  Overseas partners often feel like not only are they spending time teaching new brands the ins and outs of getting their garments made, but also have to offer them a crash course in the local culture. It’s just too much free work for them.  For example every time I have a new client working in India for the first time, that first bank transfer is painful. Something as simiple as paying a deposit becomes a days long tutorial (sorry we don’t have Zelle, Venmo, or even Paypal here). THE ONLY GARMENT SOURCING TRIP YOU SHOULD PLAN Trade shows! I have said it before, and I’ll say it again. I love trade shows. Here is a list of my favorite textile trade shows. And, this is why trade shows are so great. They are a one-stop shop for global suppliers who actually want to work with you. So much so, that these suppliers are paying tens of thousands of dollars to travel and participate in the shows. Back in the day, tradeshow suppliers were mostly focused on big orders. But, times have changed, and that is no longer the case. Some shows even have special fashion startup areas that feature clothing manufacturers for small orders. And when you attend a trade show, there are also tons of free seminars and talks. So they are a great place to get educated at no cost to you. If your budget for your brand is going to restrict your ability to travel, going to a trade show is what I would spend those limited dollars on. Can’t make it to a show live? Most trade shows now have digital components as well. So, you can check out digital showrooms and chat with suppliers on their websites from your home. ONLINE SOURCING RESOURCES THAT EVERY STARTUP FASHION BRAND SHOULD KNOW ABOUT  Speaking of digital sourcing . . .  Here are a few of the most buzzworthy online sourcing resources that every fashion startup founder should know about. Not only do they have deep connections to suppliers, but they also help you stay organized and on top of your communication and orders. Their promoted partners range from mega suppliers with huge MOQs to clothing manufacturers for small orders that are perfect for startup brands. But, they do have their downfalls. Fabric sourcing and garment manufacturing are very physical businesses - it’s important to see, feel, and touch the quality. So, be careful and understand the limitations when working online. SEWPORT “Built to support emerging brands and aspiring fashion designers who struggled to connect with the right clothing manufacturers to launch their businesses.” SEAMLESS SOURCE “We developed an automated omnichannel sourcing platform and integrated order management tool to help your brand build a digitalized, faster, leaner and more responsible supply chain, all in one place with industry-leading, reliable, responsible and sustainable suppliers across the globe.” FOURSOURCE “A global network that brings people, organizations, and innovative ideas together. We make textile sourcing smarter, transparent, and more sustainable.” (FYI - I DO NOT RECOMMEND MAKERS ROW AFTER 2 BAD EXPERIENCES WITH THE COMPANY AND THEIR CLOTHING MANUFACTURING SERVICES) THE BEST NON-TRADITIONAL SUPPLY CHAIN HACK TO FIND CLOTHING MANUFACTURERS FOR SMALL ORDERS Sample rooms and home sewers.  Sample rooms are like mini-factories, with one or two sewing machines. And an alternative to that would be a home sewer, just like it sounds, someone who sews from their home.  Now, the pro is that these apparel manufacturers are more than happy to take on really tiny production orders. The downside is that they might not be able to scale with you, so they are not always a long-term solution. When I tell founders to try out one of these options, I usually get pushback because they are convinced that if their product is not made in a traditional factory, it will not be professional or high quality.  But this is very false. Independent sewers are some of the best clothing manufacturers for small orders around! A lot of people (especially women) go out on their own after working in factories for years. They are highly trained and are starting their own mini businesses for the same reason you are starting your own clothing business. The freedom, control of their own paycheck, and all the other perks that come along with being a small business owner. I would even go as far as to argue that if you are into true women’s empowerment, this is the ONLY option to choose.  3 THINGS A MANUFACTURER NEEDS TO DO BEFORE YOU START WORKING WITH THEM You know - what you need to do and, how to find a manufacturer for your small business. Now, let’s discuss some things THEY should do before you decide to work with them. Remember, you are always in control of your supply chain. Yes, finding a supplier that is a good fit is hard. But I hate it when new brands start working with the first person that answers their emails.  You don’t just have to accept the first person that responds to you. Be picky! Just because your order is small doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have options. Or, that you shouldn't be able to vet your supplier properly. Be choosey. Before you start working with anyone, make sure to do these three things.  1. TALK TO REFERENCES If a factory tells you they sign NDAs so they can’t share clients with you, that is a blazing red flag.  Whenever a new supplier gives me this excuse, I respond, “I am sure you must have one client that you have become friends with over the years that would be happy to vouch for you.” If they don’t, I can’t stress this enough. Don’t work with them. 2. LOOK AT SAMPLES Most factories have showrooms with samples from past projects that they can show you. This can give you an idea about the type of garments they can make and prove that they can make good quality clothing for your brand.   While clothing manufacturers for small orders might have fewer examples to show than a big factory showroom, they should still have something. Quick tip. When you look at samples, you are not just looking at the quality, but also the type of garment. If you want to make swimsuits and every sample in the showroom is a t-shirt... Well, this factory might not be the best fit. 3. GIVE PRICING  It is impossible for clothing manufacturers for small orders to give you accurate pricing until they make your sample. They need to see how much fabric the garment consumes (the more fabric, the higher the price) and how long the garment takes to make (the longer it takes to sew, the higher the price).  But what they can do is tell you approximately how much it will cost. Because if your target price is $30 per garment in production and they are quoting $50, you know they won’t be a good fit. So, why waste your time sampling with them? ADDITIONAL SOURCING RESOURCES Here are a few more articles to check out for even more help. Where to source sustainable fabrics (list includes suppliers) Affordable mentorship options My favorite hack to launch your brand faster Tips for working with fabric suppliers Everything you need to know about tech packs WHAT DID YOU THINK? What step are you on in finding your perfect clothing manufacturing partner? Let me know in the comments. Source link