From Sketch to Stitch: The Development Process At MAES London

Embark on a captivating journey with us as we go through MAES London's development process of how we transform a mere sketch into a wearable masterpiece.

In this blog post, we delve deep into MAES London's process of garment creation, from conception to completion, including the essential role of tech packs, patterns and fittings.

Sketching the Vision

It all begins with designers spark of inspiration and a blank canvas. Fashion designers harness their creativity to sketch out their vision, translating ideas into lines, shapes, and silhouettes and materials. These initial sketches serve as the blueprint for us to be able to figure out the garment's design, capturing the essence of the creator's imagination.

Choosing Fabrics and Materials

Selecting the right fabrics and materials to bring the vision to life. This crucial step involves considering factors such as texture, drape, and colour, as well as the practicalities of construction and wearability. From luxurious silks to sturdy canvas, each fabric choice contributes to the overall look and feel of the garment.

Tech Packs: Streamlining the Process

Tech packs play a vital role in ensuring accurate communication between design and production teams. We can help you create these detailed documents that include all necessary information, from fabric specifications to construction details, facilitating a smooth transition from concept to reality.

Have you read our blog post on why Tech-packs are important? have a read here.

Pattern Making and Prototyping

Once the tech packs are created, our skilled pattern makers step in with Gerber to create the templates that will guide the cutting and sewing process. Using the designer's sketches as a reference, and the tech packs we produced the patterns are drafted with precision and attention to detail, ensuring an accurate fit and flawless construction. Prototypes may be created and adjusted as needed to fine-tune the design before moving to sampling.

Read our previous post on our Gerber service, click here. 

Fittings: Perfecting the Fit

Fittings play a pivotal role in ensuring that each garment fits flawlessly. Models or fit models try on the prototypes, allowing our technical designers and pattern makers to assess the fit, drape, and overall look of the garment. Adjustments are made as necessary to achieve the desired fit and silhouette, ensuring that every piece feels as good as it looks. 

Read or last weeks blog on why fits matter! click here. 

Cutting, Sewing, and Assembling

With patterns in hand and fittings completed, our cutters carefully lay the fabric out and follow the cut instructions for the patterns. Our experienced seamstresses then skill-fully stitch the pieces together, using specialised techniques to ensure clean lines and sturdy construction. From intricate hand-stitched details to high-speed industrial sewing machines, each garment is meticulously crafted with care and precision. 

Read more on the different types of stitches here. 

Finishing Touches and Quality Control

As the garment nears completion, final touches are added to enhance its appearance and functionality. This may include pressing, hemming, adding closures, and attaching embellishments such as buttons or embroidery. Throughout the process, rigorous quality control measures are implemented to ensure that every garment meets the highest standards of craftsmanship and durability.

Read our Quality Control Blog Post here. 

The Finished Product: Making Fashion Beautiful

Finally, after countless hours of work and attention to detail, the garment is ready to make its debut. From the designer's original concept to the skilled hands at MAES London that brought it to life, each garment tells a story of creativity, passion, and dedication. Whether it graces the runway, the red carpet, or the streets of everyday life, it stands as a testament to the artistry and ingenuity of our team that brought it into being.

The journey is a testament to the collaborative efforts of the behind the scnes team of designers, pattern makers, seamstresses, and artisans.

It is a journey filled with creativity, craftsmanship, and endless possibilities—a journey that transforms a simple idea into a wearable work of art. We invite you to embark on this captivating journey with us.

Get in touch today at : hello@maeslondon.com

Stay tuned for more insights, inspiration, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into the world of fashion and design.