Tie-dye originated from an ancient resist-dyeing
methodology now modified. The celebrated technique follows a basic process of
pleating, twisting and folding of the fabric. The fabric also goes through
binding and crumpling to create amazing effects and concentric patterns on the
fabric.
Resist refers to the manipulation of the chosen fabric
before applying the dye. The reason for such elaborate folds is to prevent and
control the areas the dye colors.
More modern techniques go even further by applying an
initial dye including multiple sequential dye and resist. They may introduce
advanced techniques like stenciling, additional resist, stitching and discharge
The great attraction to fabrics created through tie-dye
methods are the bright colors, bold patterns and concentric designs. The materials
are dyed in various colors to create a simple yet enduring garment.
Hundred Tie,Dye Patterns and Techniques
Entrepreneurs interested in tie-dye business can create
unique designs for individual client’s or mass produce the designs. There are
many color schemes used in mass production such as monochromatic colors, plain
motifs, indigo and simple prime colors.
The cloth has many traditional variants in different
countries. The methodology might differ slightly but the outcome is generally
the same. Each technique is unique yet basic and follows the same rules of
binding, twisting, stitching and dyeing the fabric.
The patterns of the folds determine the impact of color
on the fabric and the outlook. A master tie-dye creator can determine the final
outcome of the garment due to years of experience.
Sometimes a little experimentation creates amazing
designs and patterns. The process is easy and a great way to create fabulous
materials.
The business is considered a creative art and craft
enterprise. The entrepreneur tends to make lots of money running a cloths
dyeing enterprise.
Fabrics
used in the Dyeing Process
Not every fabric is used in the process because some are more
resistant than others. The best ranges of fabric favored are natural fabrics
such as linen, ramie, rayon. Others in this category are hemp, and cotton
fabrics. The higher the cotton in the fabric the better it is for dyeing.
Synthetic and protein based fabrics are dyed using acid
dyes. These categories of dyes have low acidity and are very effective. Acid
dyes are safe to use while vat dyes are chemically reduced before applying them
on fabric. The main reason is because vat dyes are insoluble in water.
Things to consider before starting a cloths dyeing
business
Learn
the Basics
Creating such elaborate patterns require knowledge of
dyes, folding techniques and color fixers. The best way to learn is through
books and apprentice programs. To master the skill you need lots of
experimentation and practice.
Top cloths dyers because of years of practice are able to
accurately visualize the outcome of patterns. They are able to mix different color
hues to achieve stunning designs.
Equipment
1
You need a dyeing surface like a table or bench
2
A removable covering such as a plastic tarp
3
Plastic sheets
4
Rubber gloves for the hands
5
Eye protection goggles
6
Dust masks
7
A pullover work cloths
8
Buckets
9
Pitcher or jugs
10
Containers like bottles, cups or vases
11
Ties such as rubber bands, twine, zips, ropes
12
Pipettes
13
Teaspoons
14
Measuring cups
15
Chemicals used in tie-dye
Some chemicals used in tie-dye are sodium carbonate or
soda ash, ludigol, dye powders and Synthrapol SP Detergent. While common fabrics
used for tie dye are wool, silk, cotton, nylon and batik
Economic
Benefit of Tie-Dye Fabrics
The fabrics have lots of economic benefits to both
business owner and customers. The initial cost of the material is cheap but increases in value after the dye process. Dye
specialist sells their finished products at 100% more than the initial cost of
the material.
Let’s say your plain white cotton cloth costs $20 after
the dye process the value doubles to $40. This shows a clear profit margin of
about 75% after removing the dye and labor cost.
Apart from huge profit another economic benefit is self
employment and entrepreneurship. Lots of people are looking for jobs and this
business does not require huge start-up capital.
Customers don’t mind paying for the fabric because they
are far cheaper than other fabrics in the market.
Get
Finance
Tie-dye business is not capital intensive and you can
start with less than $1000. The major expense is buying the material, equipment
and labor costs.
You can easily work from home or a workshop environment.
You don’t need bank loans to start this business just target save in commercial
banks.
If you are cash strapped get soft loans from family
members and friends. Another method of getting soft loans is through membership
in cooperative societies.
Join one and become an active member before applying for
a loan. Such societies use the collective savings to invest in projects and
facilitate loans for members.
Register
your Company
Your company should be registered with the corporate affairs
commission in your country. Register your enterprise as a limited liability
company or sole proprietorship.
A registered company gives your enterprise a corporate
identity.
Prepare
a Workshop
The job is a little messy because it involves dyes and
soaking action. You should prepare a working area to apply the dyes and dry out
the wet cloths.
Dyeing is done in stages and the entire process takes five
steps. There is also the modern direct application or dye technique. Make your work
space an open area with spread lines to dry the fabric.
Make
your Product
Make sure your product is of the highest quality. Create simple
motifs and use multiple bold colors to express your design.
The fabric you use is also important to achieve a
beautiful piece of cloth. Good quality designs will always find an eager
market.
Marketing
your Wears
You need to effectively market your creations to the
general public. Marketing takes different forms like showcasing your cloths at
fairs, flee markets and craft shows.
Another way is to rent a shop to sell your fabrics. Approach
fabric traders especially retailers and offer your fabric at a discount.
Other marketing tools include advertisement publications,
media shows and radio jingles. Why not
organize a small fashion show to introduce your fabrics to buyers.
There many other marketing tools available to the smart
businessman. Advertise on websites like OLX.com to attract new customers.
Build
a Website
A website will take your local store to the international
market. Tie-dye materials are highly regarded and attract high premium prices.
Showcase the different designs and materials to your
teeming audience. To sell online include a shopping cart and payment system. Encourage
local purchase by adding your business address and contact information.Hair Extension Business
How
to Write a Tie –Dye Business Plan
Tie-Dye Business is the designing of fabrics using dye to
achieve amazing looking materials. The methodology of making tie-dye is old
however new modern techniques are used in the mass production.
Tie and dye fabrics
are created using simple hand tool or semi automated machinery. Manufacturers
use print templates and color dyes to create beautiful patterns on the fabrics.
Other reagents are used to add colors to the fabric for
an alluring shine. To establish a tie-dye company you need to write a
comprehensive business plan to guide the enterprise.
Try to choose the quality fabrics, dyes, lease property,
secure funding and organize the company structure.
Things to consider when writing a business plan include
product, management, objective, mission, and goals.
How
to Write a Tie-Dye Business Plan
Product
The products are tie and dye fabric made using hand tools
or semi-automated technology. The materials are produced with options for
customization and bulk purchase.
The quality of fabric involves mostly cotton and other high-end
fabric capable of retaining dye. The goal is to produce high quality tie-dye
materials for the general public
Per-designed template and cost saving methods will be
deployed to produce affordable print. Other patterns for special occasions such
as anniversaries, weddings and holidays will be available and customized
appropriately.
Management
Hire qualified and skilled labor with knowledge of
tie-dye making. The company needs qualified graphic artists to create amazing
designs and templates.
Other staff includes consultants, accountant and sales
staff. Skilled and experienced labor is necessary to establish a powerful brand
name.
Competitive
Edge
The competitive edge involves better pricing and alluring
designs. The company should develop a large number of print templates and secure
strategic partnership agreements.
You can offer your clients high quality designs and
fabrics for deeper market penetration. Other comparative advantage is
customization and effective use of skilled labor.
Objectives
Major objective involves brand recognition for quality
tie-dye fabrics. Others are to achieve profitability, growth and expanded
customer base within two years. Others are strict control on design and
implementation including cost consideration.
Mission
The tie-dye mission involves high quality products at
competitive prices. This provides a platform to dominate the market and
establish a trusted brand name.
Keys
to Success
Offer high quality designs and products that meet
customer’s expectations. You can stock large number of templates and designs
including high quality fabric.
Put in place a good accounting department, product
control mechanism and technology to develop a competitive brand.
Company
Summary
Register your startup business as a limited liability
company. This effectively limits the liability to the company without recourse
to personal assets.
Company
Ownership
The ownership structure depends on the company format.
You might have a chief executive office or founder. It also depends on sole
proprietorship or partnership arrangement.
Start-up
Summary
Funding is required for fixed and working capital
expenses. The total assets depend on the cash requirements, non-cash assets and
additional cash raised.
The total liabilities include long term liabilities and
capital needs. Liabilities such as outstanding bills interest rates and current
borrowing.
Total investment depends on core investors, founder,
capital, and additional investment.
Total
stat-up Expenses and Requirements
To start your company you need to buy or lease a
property. Take inventory of stationary, marketing material, office equipment,
legal and insurance cover. Others are website development, computer equipment
and templates.
Product
and Services
The product is high quality tie-dye fabrics including
customization to meet client’s demands. The tie- dye methodology is through
manual fabric manipulation, binding and dye applications.
Semi –automated technology is also used during the
production process. Fabrics of choice are high grade fabric able to retain dye
and provide an appealing product.
The technology and craftsmanship is aided by quality
designs and vibrant colors. Graphic designs are cataloged and stored to create
verity of patterns and templates.
Market
Analysis Summary
The tie-dye fabrics are purchased according to the
designs and fabric available after production. However bulk purchase and
customization is part of the marketing strategy.
Ready- made fabric remains the core business despite the
segmentation of services.
Designs
Designs are created by graphic artist based on geometric
and concentric patterns. Other images include holidays, celebrations and
anniversaries based on demand and customization.
Target
Market
Your target markets are fabric wholesalers and retail
outlets. Offer your fabrics to supermarkets, cloths stores, malls and small
cloths shops.
Tie-dye is popular with both men and women. The fabric is
sewn into shirts, skirts, dresses, blouse, trousers and shorts. Native women
use them as wrappers and head ties.
Service
Business Analysis
The company makes tie-dye fabric in various designs
through pre-designed templates. Sales are in bulk to wholesale and retail
merchants.
Individuals
willing to purchase or order bulk purchase are also included in the service.
Designs are predetermined or customized to customers needs.
The competition depends on your geographical location and
companies in your area. The tie-dye business is not saturated and offers
investors huge opportunities in the garment industry.
The technology
depends on funding and expertise of the tie-dye company. Major competitors are
found in Asian countries, India and China.
To establish your brand make sure you produce good
designs with clear image, colors and quality fabric.
Strategy
and Implementation Summary
Leverage on high quality designs and good fabrics. Use
skilled labor and semi-automated technology.
Strategic marketing to two sectors, bulk purchase and
customized order provides a lager market share and competitive advantage. Other
strategy includes competitive pricing and effective marketing campaigns.
Competitive
Advantage
Quality prints created by professional graphic designers
Large catalogue of designs and print material
Use of high quality dye and colorants
Good fixers and quality materials
Use of appropriate equipment and machinery
Sales
Strategy
Sales strategy involves a gradual growth in customer base
and sales outlet. You need to apply different marketing strategies to reach
paying customers.
The use of different templates and customized ones is a
good sales strategy. You can hire sales representatives to work on commission
based on purchase orders.
Marketing
Strategy
The main purpose of a marketing strategy is increased visibility
of product. Advertise your products in print and electronic media.
You can pint flyers,
poster, billboards, office signboards and complementary cards. Use popular
magazines and newspapers to advertise your products.
Achievements
Catalogue your company’s milestone to have a clear view
of goals and achievements. The milestones should cover profitability, sales, bulk
purchase and establishing a company store.
Website
Building and Marketing
Use a web developer to build an attractive easy to
navigate website. Use the site to
present designs, description and prices.
Create a shopping cart to receive orders. Factor cost of
domain name, host plan, cost of web developer and marketing plan.
Use online directories, search engine submissions, social
media and guest blogging to attract traffic to your website. Also factors costs
of advertisement on Facebook and Google Adwords.
Management
Summary
Top management in your company includes founder,
strategic partners and accountant. The experience of the managers predetermines
the success of the enterprise.
Other personnel are graphic designer, printer,
consultants, and store manager. Others are cleaners, drivers and marketers.
Financial
Planning
Make sure your plan is based on current interest rates on
loans and tax rate. Others are long-term interest rates and yearly.
Break even analysis should indicate projected monthly
profit-loss. Others are yearly profit analysis, gross monthly margins and gross
yearly margins
Pro forma profit and losses are calculated based on
sales, cost of goods, and direct costs. While the total cost of sales is
calculated on depreciation, rent, utilities payroll and insurance cover.
Calculate your profit before tax using interest expenses,
tax incurred, net profit and profit before sales
Projected
Cash Flow
Operational cash are long-term liabilities, sales of
current assets, new investment and sales tax. Others are sale of long term
assets and additional cash received.
In your business plan don’t forget expenditure, projected
balance sheet and business ratio. Writing a comprehensive business plan is
important to the success of your enterprise.