Creating a prototype for your garment is important. Whether you're working with a private client or you are trying to sell your garments to a large company, you need the prototype to wow the person. Here are some tips you can apply to help you accomplish this goal.
Get Swatches
You should not even think about the garment prototype phase until you have collected fabric swatches and not just a few. The more swatches you collect, the better. Swatches are so important because the color and texture of the fabric isn't something you can capture simply by browsing through a catalog or looking online. You need to see the fabric with your own eyes and touch it. Swatches are also crucial if you plan to blend more than one material together.
Don't Forget to Sketch
Technology has made way for all sorts of benefits within the apparel design industry, including automatic image generator tools. However, sometimes the old methods are just as helpful. Make sure you begin your process with an old-fashioned technical sketch. The sketch is great for allowing you to plan out the garment down to every detail, including exactly where the seams will be placed. Take your time and prepare sketches until you are confident you have the design you want.
Choose the Right Model
You always want to put your best foot forward when designing a garment prototype. To accomplish this goal, make sure you choose the right model. The right model is basically someone with body configurations with which you have experience or are comfortable designing for. For example, if you've always designed plus-size fashion, you might run into a few hiccups designing a piece for a petite person because you might not be as familiar with their body type.
Write Everything Down
Make certain you write down everything you use during the prototype process. One of the worst things that could happen would be for the client to love the prototype and want to partner with you, but since you can't remember where you purchase the original trim, you can't create an identical version of the piece. Keep a folder that has the name and contact information of every vendor you partnered with to create the prototype for later referencing.
The right prototype can help you seal the deal and help you take your garment making efforts up the success ladder. Take your time but be confident that you know what you're doing. For more information on finding apparel swatch cards, contact your local retailer.
