Computer Arts Projects issue 130

Streetwear has come a long way since its birth in the 80s skate scene, with designer-led brands cropping up everywhere. And you don’t need to be a fashionista to carve a slice of the pie: designers and illustrators the world over are spreading their style across T-shirts, bags, sneakers and skatedecks, selling their own range of apparel for a bit of extra cash on the side.

The next 100 pages are absolutely packed with expert advice to lead you through every step of the process, from sourcing your blank tees and other materials to printing, finishing and finally selling your stock.

If you’re short of start-up cash, we’ve hooked up with screenprint and embroidery specialist Logos4Polos for a great competition to kick you off – there’s a run of 50 designs up for grabs. And if you’ve seen it all before and are ready to develop something more bespoke, KING Apparel reveal how their latest cut-and-sew range took shape.

Of course, not everyone wants to start an empire. If you fancy a piece of the action without the hassle of suppliers, printers and distributors, 123Klan share their experience of working with the world’s biggest brands, from Stüssy to Adidas – and Grotesk, former creative director at Zoo York, reveals how the brand sources design talent.

Next month we have a whole issue dedicated to forging profitable collaborations with fellow creatives. Pool your skills to take on more ambitious projects, win bigger clients and make more money. What’s not to like?

Nick Carson Editor

IN THE MAG

Project one: Launch a brand

Sixpack interview
Eccentric French entrepreneur Lionel Vivier on the birth of his arthouse brand

Made to a tee
Get your head round the production side of the business with our expert advice

Win a run of 50 T-shirts
We’ve hooked up with Logos4Polos to help you kick-start your brand

Produce your own apparel
Tools and techniques you need to know

Create a cut-and-sew range
Take your clothing to the next level with expert insider advice from KING Apparel

Screenprint your designs
Master the art of printing your own tees with this practical project

Project two: Design for clothes

123Klan interview
Up close and personal with the Montreal studio that’s worked with the world’s biggest streetwear brands

Underground inspirations
A world tour to meet leading designers inspired by the street scene around them

Designer challenge
This month, our three creatives produce a repeat pattern for clothing

Project three: Accessory design

Spread your style
The versatile illustrators adorning everything from iPhones to umbrellas

Grotesk interview
Fresh from a stint as creative director at Zoo York, this Swiss artist’s going it alone

Project four: Sell your products

Build a clothing empire
From a quick PayPal site to a full-blown distribution deal, we show you how to shift your stock

Customise your storefront
A quick guide to giving your Big Cartel shop a professional edge

Regulars

Behind the scenes
How our colourful cover came together

Big question
What’s your indispensable advice for starting a streetwear brand?