In episode 88, textile sourcing rep Jay Arbetman of The Sourcing District walks us through how to source wholesale fabric for your independent fashion brand - even in low quantities. Jay shares insights on fabric quality, sustainable fibers, and how to not spend months on your fabric search. With decades in the business, Jay knows what questions designers should ask and what has helped his longest-standing clients be so successful.
Jay has been in the garment and textile business since he was a teen. He spent the 1980's in NYC selling to department stores and specialty stores throughout the country. When he stopped making apparel, he started selling buttons and zippers and eventually morphed into fabric. He now represents 10 suppliers and sells to indie designers throughout the country.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Why fashion brands should never buy fabric at retail stores
What makes the suppliers Jay represents ideal for independent designers
What designers need to have prepared before talking to a sourcing rep
How to source fabrics in-person, over the phone, and at trade shows
How to not spend months on your fabric search
The questions Jay wishes designers would ask
Do you get what you pay for when it comes to fabric?
The cost of made in the USA textiles
What MOQs and timeline to expect for sampling and production
What differentiates successful designers in the long run
What is new in sustainable textiles
People and resources mentioned in this episode:
The Sourcing District website
Jay’s email
The Sourcing District Instagram
The Textile Show in Nashville April 3-4, 2024
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