Entering the world of fashion design can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially when navigating the complexities of product development. Marianne Weber from Quickturn Clothing shares tips for new designers to help them streamline their process and set a solid foundation for their careers. Here are her top three tips to guide you through the early stages of design and development.
1. Conduct Thorough Research and Create Detailed Technical Sketches
Marianne Weber emphasizes the importance of thorough research and detailed technical sketches in the design process. For new designers, this means taking the time to:
Create Flat Technical Sketches: Develop clear and accurate flat sketches of both the front and back views of your design. This helps in communicating your vision to pattern makers and sample makers, ensuring that every detail is understood and executed as intended.
Specify Fabric Types: Include details about the fabric types you plan to use, whether they are knit or woven, and their characteristics such as stretch capacity. This information is crucial for understanding how the fabric will behave in the final garment.
Show Internal Fabrics: Indicate any additional fabrics used inside the garment, such as linings or interlinings. This helps in achieving the desired finish and functionality.
Marianne also advises visiting retail stores to examine garments firsthand. By handling various fabrics and observing how they look and feel on different body types, you gain a better understanding of fabric characteristics and garment construction. This hands-on experience is invaluable for developing your design skills and making informed choices about materials.
2. Bring Your Own Fabric to Appointments
One of Marianne Weber’s key tips is to always bring your own fabric samples to design appointments. Here’s why this is important:
Visualization: Having physical fabric samples allows everyone involved in the development process to better visualize how the final garment will look and feel. It bridges the gap between abstract design concepts and tangible results.
Flexibility: While the fabric you bring doesn’t need to be an exact match in shape, size, or color, it should be sufficient for discussions and preliminary evaluations. This helps in making informed decisions and adjustments during the design and sample making stages.
By providing fabric samples, you ensure that the design team can accurately assess how the materials will work together and make any necessary modifications before proceeding with production.
3. Choose the Right Fit Model
Marianne’s third tip focuses on the importance of selecting the appropriate fit model for your garment. Here’s what you need to consider:
Professional Fit Models: While it’s natural to imagine how a garment will look on yourself, it’s crucial to consider the fit model’s measurements and body type. Professional fit models represent the target market and provide a more accurate assessment of how the garment will fit different body types.
Design Adjustments: Ensure that your design is adaptable and fits well on the chosen fit model. This helps in refining the garment’s fit and ensuring that it meets industry standards.
Choosing the right fit model allows you to make necessary adjustments to the design, ensuring that the final product is both flattering and functional for your target audience.
Conclusion
By following these essential tips from Marianne Weber, new designers can navigate the early stages of product development more effectively. Conducting thorough research, bringing fabric samples to appointments, and selecting the right fit model are crucial steps in turning your design concepts into successful garments. These practices not only streamline the design process but also help in achieving a polished and professional final product.
For more insights and practical advice, check out Marianne Weber’s detailed discussion on YouTube. Implementing these tips will set you on the path to becoming a successful designer in the competitive fashion industry.
