What does a clothing pattern maker do?
Generally, a clothing pattern maker is someone who makes / remakes an item of clothing based on a different pattern or design. Where exactly in the process this work is being done is the confusion. A pattern maker who takes the ideas of a designer's boss and translates them into a physical garment is at the extreme end of the spectrum. At the other extreme is a swatch maker using a tech pack and label swatch and creating a production swatch for a factory. These are often used for reference or to show the customer that the factory can achieve the desired result. In between these two things are sample makers who can handle all the other tasks. And the price range is just as wide.
For example, let us say you have an idea for a new bikini design, and you are looking for a swimsuit sample cutter to bring your idea to life. You have sketches, some inspect images, and a solid idea in mind of what it should look like. You are now looking for a bikini swatch maker. While it may seem like an easy task for the newbie, it is not. The sample manufacturer must:
1) Interpret your wishes
2) Roughly layout
3) Create a pattern
4) Customize the pattern
5) Make any necessary changes / revisions
6) Acquisition and selection of final fabrics
7) Source and selection of all different results such as buttons, zippers, etc.
8) Sew the last piece for delivery.
Then you need to repeat several steps for each classified size. That is a lot of work!
All of this must somehow withstand scrutiny by the customer. To the frustration of the sample maker, the customer often expects to pay a little more for the item than it would have cost on a store shelf. Even with a price per sample of 3-5 times the manufacturing cost - which is a common sample price from a clothing manufacturer, the sample manufacturer simply cannot afford to do so much upfront work for such a small profit.
A client who is just starting out cannot really be responsible for this situation. If you have not been through it before, understanding how it works can be difficult. The customer feels neglected and the provider feels underpaid.
Collaboration with a fashion product developer
If you have a business plan and want to invest some capital, it is best to work with a fashion product development company like Prototype. A product developer brings much more than just a sample maker. A good product developer will take you through your process and walk you through to production. More expensive, of course, but it is a surefire way to make sure you are getting the help and services you need to be successful.
Feel free to ask any of queries related to clothing related products to the best clothing manufacturer UK – Felipe Tadd.
