How to Design Your Own Sports Uniform
- 1). Understand every aspect of the sport for which you're designing uniforms by researching fabric mixes and trim that will respond properly when the wearers bend, run, roll, lunge, jump and make other moves that distinguish one sport from another. Enroll in classes that explore the nature of uniform design (see Resources) to understand form and function as it relates to contemporary uniform fashion.
- 2). Study existing uniforms worn by those involved with your sport to see how they're cut, constructed and sewn. Purchase a well-made uniform, and use a seam ripper to take the sections apart to get a thorough understanding of how the garment is put together.
- 3). Grab a sketchpad and drawing pen to render your version of the new uniform design or go directly to your computer to do the job, booting your favorite graphic design software (e.g. Adobe Illustrator, Corel Draw) to render concept art. Use the sample uniform you deconstructed as a base, and then add your own lines, seams and trim to come up with an original uniform design.
- 4). Present the new uniform design to other team members for feedback if you are not in a position to make a unilateral decision. Make modifications based on team member recommendations, and get everyone involved to sign off on the final design.
- 5). Choose a team color palette, if one hasn't already been picked or if the current colors are outdated or unflattering. Make certain other teams in your league are not using the colors you select. Consider a variety of fabrics for stain-, dirt- and soil-resilient properties, if your sport includes a lot of physical contact in outdoor settings.
- 6). Commission a sample of your sports uniform design from a freelance seamstress, tailor or factory, if you aren't in a position to make it yourself. Put the uniform to work on the court, on the field or in the gym to see how it moves and looks in action. Wash it several times. Once you're satisfied with the way it feels, looks and holds up, you'll be ready to ready to order uniforms for everyone on the team roster.
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