I have a unique idea for a particular baby garment that, as the mother of a baby and a toddler, I would find a God-send if only someone made it I have floated the idea with a few trusted friends who also have young children and they say they would buy this garment today if such a thing existed. I would like to invest some money into trying to produce this idea, but as someone with no relevant skills, I am not sure how to go about it. Could you give me some advice as to how and where I might contact somebody who could help me with the final design, production (including liaising with overseas fabric suppliers etc) so that I could try and give this a go. In other words I have the idea and the funds to do this but need others to do the clever stuff and produce the garment for me! I’d be grateful for any advice you can offer.

Dear Sue: This email is being sent to the UK. You are in Melbourne, and we are here in the US.
The US has strict rules and regulations regarding apparel for babies. I’m not familiar with the rules for either the UK or Australia. As far as meeting fabric companies, there are several wholesale trade shows, here in the US, as well as others around the world. Visit www.material-world.com and www.fabricshow.com for information on shows in the USA.
First, find out the rules regarding the apparel you want to produce. Then try to find fabric companies that will manufacture the fabric you need. More than likely, the fabric will have to be flame retardant, using chemicals or processes that are “baby” friendly. Then, depending on where you want to have the apparel sewn, you will need to find a contract sewing plant.
Proceed slowly.
Good Luck, Andy