Morgan Wagstaff
Two Fold Clothing
North Carolina
What is your product(s)?
Two Fold is a small batch womenswear brand focusing on environmental and social consciousness. The current collection is made of seven versatile pieces that can fit into any wardrobe and ethics plays a huge roll in every decision I make.
I chose to use only organic and sustainable fabrics in this collection. We used organic cotton twill, raw silk, 100% cotton herringbone, and Tencel. These fabrics are both sustainable and environmentally friendly in their manufacturing. I also decided to use all recycled products for shipping. Being sustainable and making ethics a priority in business is no easy feat, but it is the foundation Two Fold is built on.
Where were you with your idea or business before joining Factory45?
I went to school for apparel design and merchandising, so when I graduated I had a (far-fetched) dream of starting my own clothing brand. At the beginning of last year I decided I was going to start thinking about it more seriously and start taking steps towards it. Once I began my research and planning, I realized I still had a lot to learn and was struggling to find the things I needed. When I looked into Factory45, I saw that Shannon had great connections to suppliers and manufacturers I was needing to connect with. I was also eager to learn her tips on crowdfunding and marketing. I joined because Factory45 could fill the holes I needed filled.
How did joining Factory45 help you?
Factory45 was an amazing great first step into the industry. Her connections to fabric/trim/notions suppliers and factories alone made joining worth it. But the greatest gain for me was Shannon’s insight into marketing and launch strategy. I was able to connect with and get my brand in front of like-minded people because of the concepts and tools laid out in the course and that made the world of difference.
In your opinion, what is the most valuable thing about Factory45?
The marketing and launch strategies that were laid out were the most helpful. It was extremely helpful to have Shannon’s help reading over emails before I sent them out, having her feedback on things I was doing during my Kickstarter Campaign, and being able to send her any question I had was a godsend through it all.
What were some big or small milestones that you hit after going through Factory45?
I decided to do things a little differently than most of the students that go through Factory45 and make each piece sold through my Kickstarter myself. I wanted to do it this way, because I value the art of perfecting a craft. I love sewing and truly believe in the art of handmade pieces.
Since completing Factory45, I’ve had a Kickstarter campaign that raised over $18,000 and have been working to cut, sew, and ship the 142 orders. This has meant very, VERY long work days, sleepless night, and hard work. Deciding to go this route has not been easy. I’ve had many snags along the way, like my machine breaking and having to buy a new one, ruined garments because of one thing or another, etc., and it’s taken longer than I had anticipated, but I stand by my choice. I can proudly say that I have poured my heart into each and every piece that has left my studio. I’ve been able to ensure the quality of the work. And I’ve connected with each one of my customers and I know them by name.
I’ve also participated in a virtual pop-up with a handful of other incredible brands. This was great exposure and I was able to connect more women with sustainable clothing and slow fashion. And just last weekend I had the pleasure of showcasing the current collection and a few one-of-a-kind pieces in a local hair and fashion show. I can honestly say it’s been a joy getting to do what I love every day!
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