Question Hi, I would like to start designing and selling my own fashion handbags. However I am confused. I I buy fabric and design a handbag am I allowed to sell it? I realise that they have designed the fabric but I have designed the handbag. Does the same apply to plain fabric with no design on it? Thanks for any help you can give.
Answer Hi Amanda,
If I understand your question correctly, you are asking if you can purchase fabrics from textile companies and then manufacture your own handbags and sell them commercially. I hope this is the question you were intending to ask.
You have not said if you are purchasing your fabrics wholesale or retail. Or by whom the fabric is manufactured.
In some cases the answer would be YES you can, and in others the answer could be NO. It is really depends on the company who is the manufacturer and knowing their regulations.
For example, if you were to select a fabric by Amy Butler, her company very clearly states on the website that you may use her fabrics for commercial use http://www.amybutlerdesign.com/faqs/ You can not however, use her patterns and sell them commercially. This is also addressed on the FAQ page.
For the most part companies are happy to have you use their prints and solids for manufacturing purposes. That is one of the reasons they make them.
If you are purchasing your fabrics wholesale your sales representative can answer your specific questions. If you are buying from a jobber you may need to do some quick research yourself online just to reassure yourself. If you are buying your fabric at a retail outlet, again you may need to do some research about the manufacturer first. Just as a quick example if you were to buy a Disney fabric and Disney had an issue with you selling commercially - it is better to check first before buying or cutting.
When I previously manufacturing clothing we bought many print fabrics from various manufacturers WAVERLY, Alexander Henry, etc. There was never a problem using these fabrics for commercial use.
If this is not what you were asking or if you can be more specific with your concern I would more than happy to further assist you.
Best regards,
Jane Button
www.craftabusiness.com
janebutton@craftabusiness.com
