Step 1 - Creating the pattern
Once the samples are perfect and the design is finalised, the pattern is cut onto cardboard sheets and stored for future orders. Each size and each individual section (arm lengths, torso area, etc) are cut on their own piece of cardboard, as when the fabric is being cut it makes it easier to use it all and avoid off-cut waste. Pattern making is a highly skilled position; if the pattern is incorrect, none of the steps below matter very much afterward.
Step 2 - Cutting the pattern onto fabric
When an order has been placed the pattern cutter takes the cardboard pattern and aligns it onto the fabric to be used. Chalk (or pen on white fabric) is then used to outline each section and size onto the fabric. The fabric itself is placed in thick piles - each colour to be used will be cut at the same time.
Step 3 - Stitching the garment
The majority of our makers are the tailors who stitch our clothing together. This is of utmost importance to us, as when a garment is stitched correctly it lasts many, many years (one of the foundations of slow fashion). We are lucky to work with such amazing skilled men and women to create our superior quality clothing.
Step 4 - Quality control
This step is performed once the stitching of the items has been completed. These lovely ladies check that the sizes are correct by measuring against the pattern, ensure all stitching is within the fabric seams, cut away any loose cotton threads and check that the fabric is blemish free.
Step 5 - Tagging and bagging
This is the final step where the clothing is just about ready; tags are attached and the garments are placed in their style, size and colour group ready for packing and shipping.
Bonus Step - Screen Printing
We visited our screen printers once again this trip ... this process never fails to fascinate and impress me! Our amazing printing team have absolute precision timing and HUGE skill. You really must see it to understand how fast they go, and with zero error no less.
