Hello,

I'm in South Africa and want to startup a socialy responsible company who's primary aim is to employ people. I have some financial backing, but very little knowledge of the manufacturing side of things. I am super confident that I can sell 1000 shirts a month. I hope to employ about 10 people until I can expand my market and reach economies of scale such that I can expand the model.

My question is: what do I need to make 1000 shirts in a month?
1. Would I really need 10 employees?
2. how much of fabric do I need?
3. can I assume that the cost of 'sundries' (e.g. thread etc) will be about 10% of the cost of the fabric? I will figure out the types sundries when I have a better understanding of the actual manufacturing process.

A local sewing company reseller suggests 10 sewing machines will do the job...is 100shirts per employee per month a reasonable level of output?

I want to start learning the trade by making 1000 Golf Shirts, then expanding until I can make school uniforms for the poorer communities while making profits on the other lines of items (golf shirts).

Thank you for your speedy replies
XCal

Hi Xcal-

It's always great to see people aspire to give others work!

I don't know any of the answers to your questions but you may want to visit http://www.t-shirtforums.com. I think there are at least a few people on that site how manufature their own shirts so they will be able to give you some guidance.

Good luck!

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