SELLING BY DESIGN
Crazy for Cottons
As you might expect, anticipation and preparation for exhibiting at Quilt Market can be a bit daunting. But I always find any apprehension dispelled as soon as the Market opens. The energy and enthusiasm of shop owners is invigorating. I leave the show revived and invigorated with all sorts of ideas for new product development.
The Fall Market was particularly motivating for my creative mind as I saw renewed excitement for wearable patterns -- my favorite niche! I am also in awe of all the fabulous new collections of fabric being introduced into the Market.
When creating garments, we often incorporate a variety of fabrics including bark cloth, wool, and decorator fabrics. Recently we have looked to quilting cottons as a source of inspiration for patterns. A conscious effort is being made, as we know the bolts of cotton far out number other fabrics in stores.
You will find customers fall in love with certain fabric collections and particular designers. So why not offer them the chance to wear their favorite fabrics? All the wonderful apron designs available are a great place to start. Easy to fit and fun to wear! Some are even reversible like our Sew Easy Apron IJ749. The Stylish Smock IJ731 also offers several styles for featuring a combination of patterns. It is not just an apron, but an everyday wearable.
Another reversible option for a cotton wearable is the Reversible Wrap IJ765. Vests are in vogue and this simple construction can work up nicely in several coordinates. Skirts are also a trendy separate to consider. The Great Fit Gored Skirt offers a style perfect for featuring numerous patterns from one collection. You can choose two fabrics or add a third as a godet in the longer version of the design or incorporate two or three patterns in the shorter style.
This pattern is also great to promote serger sales -- the construction options include exposed seams between gores, finished with thread to blend with or contrast fabric, and a simple serged lower edge in place of hemming. Instructions for interior seaming are also included for those without a serger.
The Perfect Pullover IJ773 is a garment worth mentioning as it was a Market best seller!! Easy to wear and construct, the design offers two lengths and three sleeve options with a flattering asymmetrical front.
To show the versatility of the design, make up a store sample from a traditional and contemporary collection and watch the fabric and patterns fly out the door!
Purses and totes are a natural for showcasing fabrics. If you have not heard, BIG bags are in! Our Nouveau Hobo IJ775 is just that! The pattern includes a roomy tote style as well as a more petite purse version. The wide strap, as well as the piecing of the bag, lends itself well to the use of multiple patterns. A bonus is the needle felted appliqué design that is included in the pattern.
The moral of this story is to think beyond quilts for your cotton fabrics! Offer your customers a chance to showcase their style and love for fabrics by providing a variety of wearable patterns in your store. Just think -- FREE ADVERTISING! As garments are worn and admired, your customers will be walking advertisements for your store and the fabrics and patterns you carry.
We all know word of mouth advertising is a sure bet. So roll the dice and make a commitment to grow your wearables category in 2007!
For more information about Indygo Junction and The Vintage Workshop products, contact Indygo Junction, Inc., P.O. Box 30238, Kansas City, MO 64112 Phone 1-913-341-5559 or visit online at www.indygojunction.com or www.thevintageworkshop.com .
E-mail: info@indygojunction.com .
Amy Barickman, founder and creative director of The Vintage Workshop, has been a leader in the crafting industry for more than a decade. As founder of her own publishing company, Indygo Junction,
Amy works with designers and artists whose work leads in the craft industry, from quilting and needlearts to scrapbooking and papercrafts.
Reprinted from SQE Professional January 2007 |
