Today we’d like to introduce you to Eli Delafuente.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My journey began as an ambitious fashion designer from Orange County with a dream and no formal education in fashion design. I was self-taught, mastering everything from patternmaking to operating industrial sewing machines over seven challenging yet rewarding years. Despite the initial hurdles of starting a brand in OC with minimal knowledge, I invested in the necessary equipment and gradually improved my skills, eventually seeking expertise from professionals. This journey led me to realize that manufacturers could bring my visions to life, prompting me to further invest in my equipment arsenal.
By 2020, although my brand was moderately successful, I felt my creative passion was missing; I felt trapped by my own brand’s aesthetic. It was then on the brink of Covid, that I decided to pivot and founded Turnkey Patterns MFG… Rooted in a designer’s perspective rather than a manufacturer’s, Turnkey Patterns was conceived to assist other designers in actualizing their visions, embodying the concept of providing ‘turnkey’ solutions akin to a move-in-ready home (turnkey home), hence the name. We aim to ‘unlock creativity,’ offering more than just manufacturing services.
Now, we take pride in nurturing designers at various stages, sharing the knowledge I wish I had when starting out, and eliminating the need for minimum order quantities to support emerging talents. At Turnkey Patterns, we offer a transparent view into the manufacturing process, fostering a community where learning and growth are encouraged. Our goal is to empower designers to reach their full potential, minimizing the pitfalls that can come with navigating the fashion industry. As we continue to evolve and expand, our commitment remains the same: to be a catalyst for creativity and success in the fashion world.
If I couldn’t be the next Mike Amiri, make we can build the next! that’s TURNKEY!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Not smooth, the fashion industry is expensive, and now, with overseas “competition,” it makes it harder for everyone. I say competition, but I don’t mean direct competition because we’re not competing, but people like to compare prices, and it’s not the same. We may be playing on the same field, but we’re definitely not playing the same game.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
We help foster aspiring fashion designers, as well as experienced designers. Helping both reach the next level, while guiding along the way. Setting realistic capabilities since this is the business of fashion and not all designs can thrive in production.
We are a Full-Package Sewing Manufacturer with a No MOQ policy at the end of the day.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Share your journey on all platforms, regardless of where you’re at. Connect with others in a similar position. When I started Turnkey, I didn’t see any other MFG posting fun and insightful information, so I started posting, and people found me and connected with me.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.turnkeypatterns.com
- Instagram: turnkeypatterns
- Other: @turnkeypatterns
