Finding a Manufacturer

in Forum: Selecting a Business for Yourself
Source of this discusssion: /articles/1293/1/finding-manufacturer.asp Page description: After you’ve come up with a new product and decided that you’re going to base a business on it, one vital thing on your startup to-do list is to locate a high-quality, reliable manufacturer. Here’s how to find a manufacturer you can count on.
Feb. 11 2007 at 12:17 AM
No Photo Posted by: aspeg1
I am looking to find a manufacturer that can create my design ideas for the
home (e.g. unframed wall art, home accent pieces, decorative accessories,
etc.). I would need a company that can work with various fabrics and other
materials to produce the pieces. This would avoid making the items look
"homemade" or "crafty".

I have searched online but find that most companies offer set products. Any
directional help with manufacturers would be appreciated.




Edited by: aspeg1 - Feb. 11 2007 at 12:18 AM
Feb. 11 2007 at 10:40 PM
Steve Posted by: Steve
Have you found any companies that make something similar? You could approach them about making your products. A manufacturer is going to have a minimum quantity.

Where do you plan to sell these items? In your own store, online, to stores yourself or through distributors? Do you have any commitments to purchase already?  Steve - Kirk Foods, LLC home of the Gluten Free Cookie Factory - To reach any significant goal, you must leave your comfort zone. - Hyrum W. Smith, Founder, Franklin Quest
Feb. 12 2007 at 10:35 PM
No Photo Posted by: aspeg1
Thanks, Steve!

I have not seen any related items (at least not yet). I have noticed a
"custom art" company that can design anything you wish (mostly for the
wealthy), but not for mass production. I have gotten in touch with an
overseas manufacturer through Alibaba.com, but so far, it is specialized.

I just plan to stay within a small niche of interior designers through
magazine advertising and see where it goes from there. I need to keep my
day job while I do this...lol...

But I will consider your idea and see if anything comes close. Then, I will
contact the manufacturer to see if there are any possibilities. Just you
responding keeps me motivated.

Thank you, again!

Edited by: aspeg1 - Feb. 12 2007 at 10:36 PM
Feb. 12 2007 at 11:29 PM
Steve Posted by: Steve
Not sure where you're from but here in SE Michigan there are numerous art fairs during the summer. The creations you describe sound like many of the art objects people sell there.

Besides fabrics, what other materials do you use? How complicated is it? Is it something that can be manufactured in a developing country and imported? I've heard of people who do that. They're helping someone feed their family and develop their own business while at the same time creating objects they can sell. Maybe you could design something specifically to be made that way. Good luck.
Steve - Kirk Foods, LLC home of the Gluten Free Cookie Factory - To reach any significant goal, you must leave your comfort zone. - Hyrum W. Smith, Founder, Franklin Quest


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