ABSTRACT
Society’s reliance on the internet and e-commerce for everything from clothing to groceries has led to a trend of closing of big-box stores and the fabric industry is not immune to this trend. The power of global e-commerce has fostered a number of online fabric stores as well but they have many challenges, including time sensitivity in terms of order processing and shipping, accurate product description, and availability of product. When sourcing fabric for period shows and designs, whether for garments or upholstery, there is an added layer of challenge in terms of condition of the fabric. In the digital age, creating custom patterns for fabric provides a creative alternative for designs that support theme, character, and time period. Custom printed fabric is also an excellent way to generate high-concept design pieces because it allows for direct continuation of pattern/design through adjustment for darts, seam allowances. Dyeing fabric is sometimes unpredictable and also time-consuming.
