Case Study

Elaine had this great product concept but required assistance in developing a prototype. Through an Invest NI Innovation Voucher, Elaine received funding to work with Belfast Met on the design of the garment, the range of plastic materials that could be used and the development of a prototype.

Lorna Reid-Mullan, fashion and textiles lecturer, worked closely with Elaine on the product designs drawings. Sample prototypes were made using calico material to review sizes and design aspects such as pockets, seams and fastening. Seams were kept to a minimum to streamline the product and pockets were stitched into the side to reduce manufacturing time. 

Elaine also received assistance in materials selection through Belfast Met’s textiles expert, Jeremy McMahon. Jeremy provided samples of plastic materials that could be used to get the end quality that the Welly Wet Suit required. Guidance was given as to the manufacture options with a manufacturer in England sourced to complete a final prototype for Elaine.
As a result of the prototype, Welly Wet Suit has now been established as a brand. The product has continued to develop and now with a final product established, Elaine and Nadine are working with Belfast Met to develop a Kickstarter Video to secure funding for the manufacture of the first batch of Welly Wet Suits.

‘We wouldn’t be where we are now without the help of the voucher and the contacts we have made from it.  The team at Belfast Met were helpful, supportive and delivered exactly what we needed.  We have continued to keep in touch regarding the progress of the business which has been vital for us in this early stage of our business.’ 
Elaine Sykes, Founder of Welly Wet Suit

Read more about Innovation Vouchers and how they can help your business to innovate.