Hi Cam, i have found your input very helpful with regards to everything. i am just starting the manufacturing of a childrens clothing line and had some samples made up earlier this year, can't fault the sewing, but have had untold issues getting anything done to a time line. So i am now ready to launch a range but am not in the 100 per garment category (YET) and i like to work with the small businesses to help the average battler, but realise i have to look for other manufacturers as sadly the women i have been working with in Bali is not going to be able to accomodate me the way i have structured my business, anyway, do you knowwhere i can find good quality workmanship? and where can i source fabrics because that has been an issue with the young lady i have been working with so i think i need to come and check out the fabric wholesalers as well to see if this is going to work for me. so if you have any ideas i would appreciate your help. My husband and i are coming this Thursday 29th till Tuesday 4th Dec hoping to source some good manufacturers but for a small business.
So would appreciate anything that might help us.
Cheers,
Jessica.
CanonMan wroteWe produce clothes here in Bali, Ocean and other water sports as well as Beachwear etc etc. We've been doing this for nearly two years now and I can tell you it is a big challenge.
We are now looking at sourcing the work in Bandung and the fabrics from China. Small quantities here are OK but things we have learned:
1) Nail the price down with a price agreement signed before the order is made. Otherwise you WILL get met with a price hike when you go to collect the order.
2) If you supply the material, male spot checks and measurements if you leave the fabric stocks with the factory. They WILL use your fabric for their own goods.
3) If you get any rejects, take them but don't pay for them. We've found items that we rejected for horrible work only to find the factory was selling them at cheap shops in Kuta and villages on the island, very damaging for your corporate image!
4) If you are doing the printing here then you go and process the screen films. Inflated prices and shoddy work will ruin a run of 100 Tee shirts because the locals workers don't know that what they are seeing is NOT what you want!
5) Stick to your guns. Some of the factories will continually try weaseling extra pennies for 'hidden costs'. Be cool but adamant, you have a price and stick with that.
If you need any more info feel free to DM although I don't come here as much as I used to.
Cheers,
Cam
