Every project is different but the process starts with a brief of some kind from the client. Sometimes these are very detailed, sometimes they are quite vague. I usually say the more information the better.

The brief can include a description of your end customers, which brands you see as your competitors, examples of frames already on the market that you like, mood boards, inspiration images, details from non-eyewear products, rough sketches, sales data if for an existing brand, and so on. Basically anything that can help me build a picture of what it is you want to do.

Some clients know exactly what they want to do while others require some guidance. Whatever your level of knowledge I have encountered most situations before and can offer advice on collection planning, budgeting, manufacturing and material options. I’ve worked with several startups over the years so have come across most questions. Don’t be afraid to ask.

Depending on the specifics of the project once a plan and direction have been established I start off by producing some initial designs which I then send for feedback.

Some of these designs may be good to go, some may require adjustments and refinements and some may need to be redesigned from scratch. I continue to develop the designs until you have the required number of finished models for your project.

At this stage I can produce rough 3D models for shape validation. These can also be used for 3D printing rough sample fronts that can be tried on, saving on traditional prototyping.

Once the designs are finalised I move onto producing detailed 2D technical drawings for each model. These include a front, side and top view, cross-sections, measurements and any other details needed to convey to the manufacturer exactly how the finished product should look.

The factory then produce their own technical drawings which I can review if required to ensure that my designs have been interpreted accurately.

After the factory’s technical drawings have been approved they move on to prototyping which allows any issues to be ironed out before going into full production. When everything is agreed and the prototypes are finalised the tooling is then created for launching final production.

The entire process from briefing the designer through to receiving finished frames ready for sale typically takes a full year. Sometimes it can take less time, sometimes more, but allowing a year is realistic and good practice.