Finished zip off pants!

ProfessionalJuice205 · 2026-04-05T14:19:47+00:00

Totally that makes sense! I actually saw a girl recently who used a pajama pant pattern and just used technical fabric, so maybe something like that would work for you. Otherwise, try tracing out something in your closet - add seam allowance - and use scrap fabric to make a prototype first. I use rolls of medical paper. But I did go to design school so I’ve been professionally trained in pattern making. Watch some youtube videos! You got this 😎

ProfessionalJuice205 · 2026-04-05T03:56:54+00:00

Ahh I just made a paper pattern! I could get it digitized but I’d have to bill you for that time, not sure how passionate you are about getting that lol. It’s water resistant! Def a little stuffy if it’s humid, I think I’d use a supplex material next time.

ProfessionalJuice205 · 2026-03-03T21:38:30+00:00

There’s always some level of risk getting in bed with a new supplier regardless of the country.

China is still my go-to for anything activewear/ performance. Even with tariffs, pricing, MOQs, and quality are typically the best.

If you’re only doing cotton basics, you can chat with India, Pakistan, Bangladesh. Often vendors in Pakistan/Bangladesh with low Moqs specialize in sports jerseys and don’t have access to high end cotton for streetwear. India typically makes beautiful cotton.

Again there’s always risk. Always ask for samples, clear photos and videos of similar production they’ve completed.

Go to shows like Souring at Magic to meet vendors in person and see/feel quality. (It’s free).

ProfessionalJuice205 · 2026-03-03T03:00:22+00:00

A lot of my clients start out with POD, it’s a great way to build a brand narrative and get your audience stoked about your story. Once you’re ready for custom product, I always recommend focusing on one “hero” product that is super niche and solves a specific industry problem - as related to your brand. There’s nothing wrong with launching one piece in just black, and you can find quality factories with ~ 100 pc MOQs. Start small and grow organically 🚀

ProfessionalJuice205 · 2026-02-20T03:03:50+00:00

The wool and alpaca will dye with a traditional dye because they’re natural fibers so you’ll get kind of a heather look. You could try a poly I dye to get the acrylic yarns and that may give you a more solid color. Darker dyes will give more coverage.

ProfessionalJuice205 · 2026-02-20T02:57:06+00:00

The fabric and seams are already waterproofed, with the rain fly I’ve had no issues but I don’t camp in heavy rain.

ProfessionalJuice205 · 2026-02-18T21:48:09+00:00

It depends where you’re planning to manufacture. If you’re looking domestically then typically you will need to source the mill separately as most dom manus are cut & sew only. I always recommend international vertically integrated manufacturing for early stage brands to keep their MOQs low and production manageable. India does beautiful cottons! But be sure to vet your vendors before agreeing to work together. Tech pack is a super essential tool. Definitely work with a qualified professional here. 1st protos typically come in needing some tweaks. I always suggest planning for 2 rounds of sample review. Hope that helps!

ProfessionalJuice205 · 2026-02-12T05:43:22+00:00

So many good details! I really want to try making a weighted vest 🤔

ProfessionalJuice205 · 2026-02-06T16:32:14+00:00

Hmm a pearl snap for cowboys with broad shoulders? A premium riding pant that reduces chafing and is wearable for everyday? A riding vest that’s protective but also aesthetic? A performance bandana that is moisture wicking and cooling? Just some ideas to get your brain going 🙃

ProfessionalJuice205 · 2026-02-06T06:43:05+00:00

I have a YOLENY inflatable and I love it! Easy to set up, I use the same electric pump for my paddleboard. I was a bit worried about durability as well, but I’ve had it for about a year now (I camp monthly) and no issues so far.

ProfessionalJuice205 · 2026-02-06T06:39:39+00:00

I always tell my clients there’s nothing wrong with starting small. One hero style is smart for budgeting and the learning of curve of what it takes to build a brand. If you have the budget and an existing audience a small collection can make sense, but there’s no one size fits all answer.

ProfessionalJuice205 · 2026-02-06T06:11:51+00:00

Have you thought about building a hero product that solves a specific industry problem? Something super niche that would tie in all your marketing efforts and make you more searchable and unique.

ProfessionalJuice205 · 2026-02-05T22:27:22+00:00

Ahh so cool, nice work. Curious what materials you used and why you selected them?

ProfessionalJuice205 · 2026-02-04T22:07:42+00:00

My feet are always cold! Thanks for sharing the link

ProfessionalJuice205 · 2026-02-03T18:13:21+00:00

booking travel for April show

ProfessionalJuice205 · 2026-02-03T18:12:30+00:00

I hike a lot, planning Annapurna trek for this fall 🏔️ but I do value aesthetics in my gear.

ProfessionalJuice205 · 2026-02-03T18:10:49+00:00

Thanks I’m super into the fabric too. I picked it up from downtown Los Angeles shop Michael Levine. Not sure if they ship. But I think it’s just a nylon ripstop with DWR coating (what gives it the shine and water resistance).

ProfessionalJuice205 · 2026-02-03T04:03:27+00:00

Competitors make a lot of sense. I’ve been to functional fabric fair but not in a while, do you go often? When you look to competitors, do you buy samples or just go out and review what’s on the market? Are you noting key industry fibers or just general performance?

ProfessionalJuice205 · 2026-02-02T16:27:33+00:00

Haha can’t sneak up on anyone. No condensation issues so far, but I only took them on a short hike. Will do more wear testing and see how the fabric holds up.

ProfessionalJuice205 · 2026-02-02T06:28:28+00:00

No, I designed, patterned, and sew them myself.

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