A Vernier caliper is an apparel trade tool used when developing and sourcing buttons. It is a device to make very accurate linear measurements and it is now is one of the most widely used measuring instruments after the measuring scale.

Buttons are one of the most common trims used in apparel development. Read on for a brief basic guide to buttons for apparel sourcing and development.

Textile design has a long history of ‘knocking off’. It most likely goes back thousands of years ago when humans first started putting designs on cloth. Today textile designs are iconic images that represent the unique style and personality of a brand. Examples include the Liberty floral, Etro paisley, Hello Kitty image etc. These well-known images and designs instantly bring the brand’s identity to mind. Usually, these styles/patterns are so popular that the patterns have sold incredibly well therefore many other companies try to copy them. That is why most of these designs have “©” on their fabric selvedge and/or can be seen on their design.

While fabrics fulfill the main design objective of your product, trims (may also be referred to as notions) are critically important to both the functionality and the aesthetics of your product.

Sizing and grading work together as you build your product. Sizing is determined at the beginning of your project while grading occurs towards the end of commercialization of your product. Determining your sizing is an important part of product creation. We recommend researching your target consumer, competitor and understand what works best for your product. Here at Guided Makers we can help guide on the best size range for your product.

Here at Guided Makers we believe in giving back. To our community and yours, to causes locally, nationally and globally. We have recently implemented this mission into our business program and we are inviting our clients to join us