Final Step | Factory Bound

The benefits of doing our design and development in house are far reaching.  On the front end we focus on:

• What we make
• How we make it(constructions and patterning)
• What we make it with(fabrics and trims)
• Who we partner with to make it to scale(manufacturing partners)

The last point being absolutely key - partnering with the right manufacturers who have the necessary tools,equipment, and hopefully some level of automation.  Working with this level of manufacturer we strive to end up with thoughtfully designed and manufactured products that will stand the test of time.  

Factories, like in any relationship, operate more effectively if they are provided with the tools to succeed.  A golden sample(sample that fully meets requirements outlined in our build manual), complete patterns, bill of materials, cut list, and a build manual are the ingredients needed for a factory to begin costing and ultimately produce goods to scale.  Before we hand over this stuff we do a final sample build sew off.  This gives us one last chance to check our work before it goes to the factory.  Our patterning is dynamic and complicated.  The end results are streamlined, modern packs, that fit really well.  To ensure our build manual is on point we brought in an outside sample sewer who happens to have 40 years of sewing experience.  

We gave her the fabrics, a completed sample for reference,  and the build manual and specs.  Her job is to then make whats on the page.  If she finds any errors or has any issues we can incorporate updates in real time.  At the end of the process we can know that what we give our factory partners is not only buildable but is, in our opinion, the easiest way to execute the product we are delivering. The factory will also get a chance to suggest any processes or steps they think could benefit + facilatate production.  We are open ears as long as those changes do not effect the integrity of the product.  This continues the conversation until we approve the factories sample.  Once both parties agree we are on the same page we can move to production.  

At the end of the day it is our responsibility to ensure the success of our factory partners.  We are lucky to have access to some of the best manufacturers around.  We are not perfect and neither are they.  Mistakes will happen.  But with a solid foundation of process and open communication we can learn from those mistakes and move forward in an even stronger position.

What are your questions?

Onwards,

Jack and Kevin