So I'm sharing the easy way here for you.
I talking using Facebook to search for needlework in a haystack, but you don't have to waste your time (and money).
You might know I had zero experience in fashion, business and manufacturing... and everything else business!
So you want to make rugs, bags, jeans hoodies or anything else in textiles? Head to the Global Sourcing Fair. They are held yearly in both Sydney and Melbourne.
But what do you ask? Here's the lowdown of my top queries:
- Fabric: have an idea of the fabric you'd like to use. Fabric determines fit, cost and availability. Start looking at fabric care labels on similar items (they legally have to be in garments) and know what you're asking for.
- MOQs: Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs) are the number of items a factory will agree to make for you in production. Some will start at 50 items per style, some at the Global Sourcing Fair were 1000 items. The more you make, the better price they will give you.
- Factory conditions: Check the factory working conditions. I have done this in-person with my India manufacturer (twice) to be sure that they produce ethically. You shouldn't make a buck out of others suffering. More on that at Fashion Checker
- Leadtimes: Ask how long it will take for production to ensure you have a stead line of products arriving for sale.
Check out the Global Sourcing Expo Australia website for inspo. And don't forget to let me know what you're going to bring into the world!