FAQ
Common questions answered
Eyewear design services
What eyewear design services do you offer?
Selin Olmsted Studio offers end-to-end eyewear services, from concept to production, including eyewear trend forecasting, collection analysis and mapping, eyewear design, product development, sourcing, production & QC oversight, and importing, frame styling, and B2B consulting services. Full details are available under “+Services.”
What type of eyewear do you specialize in?
We specialize in both optical and sun eyewear, with experience across fashion, lifestyle, sports, and smart eyewear categories. We work with a wide range of materials, including acetate, titanium, stainless steel, injected plastic, and bio-based plastics. We design for both established companies and independent brands.
Do you offer end-to-end servies, or can we engage you for specific stages, such as design only or sourcing only?
Both options are available. We can manage the full process from concept to importing, or focus on a specific stage: design, product development, sourcing from a pre-vetted manufacturer, production oversight, or another defined service.
process & timeline
What is the typical timeline for an eyewear project from concept to production?
A full end-to-end project typically takes approximately 12 months for production in Italy or China, and 18–24 months in Japan. The design phase generally takes 1–2 months depending on the number of styles. Product development follows, consisting of 1–3 sampling rounds at 2–4 months each.
What factors can affect the project timeline?
Key factors include:
• Scope and complexity of the collection
• Alignment and approval pace at each stage
• Sampling rounds and factory capacity
• Material availability and supplier lead times
• Import and logistics requirements
We identify timeline risks early and keep the process on track.
Can you accommodate rush projects or tight deadlines?
Eyewear development takes time due to the many details involved in crafting a quality product, so we recommend reaching out as early as possible. If you have a specific deadline, please share the details and we will do our best to explore the available options together.
Do you work with clients internationally across different time zones?
Yes. We work with clients globally and structure our process to run smoothly across time zones. At the start of each engagement, we agree on a regular check-in cadence that works for both parties. Eyewear involves many handcrafted, labor-intensive steps that require careful attention at every stage, and our process is designed to maintain that standard regardless of location.
design & deliverables
What is included in your design deliverables?
Design deliverables vary by project scope, but typically include concept boards, trend direction presentations, frame front, temple and detail drawings, color and material examples, and inspiration references. We confirm the exact deliverable list at the start of each project.
How many revision rounds are included in the design process?
Our standard engagement includes 2-3 rounds of revisions for each milestone in the design process. Additional revision rounds beyond this are billed at our standard hourly rate.
Who retains ownership of the final designs and intellectual property?
Upon full payment of all invoices, all final selected designs and intellectual property transfer to the client. Concepts, shape explorations, or materials not selected for the final collection remain the property of Selin Olmsted Studio.
How does the color review process work if the client’s headquarters are outside of New York or the USA?
We develop the color options in our studio using acetate chips, lens samples, and metal plating color references. We then present the options to the client over Zoom, supported by photos on the Miro board. If the client would like to review actual color references in person, we can mail physical color references for final sign-off.
Product development
After the designs are signed off by the client and sent off to the manufacturer, what happens next?
Once designs are approved by the client and submitted to the manufacturer, the product development process begins. We review technical drawings, the blueprints of the eyewear, and provide feedback until they are approved, typically over 2-3 rounds.
From there, we enter the sampling phase, where each sample is received and reviewed against the approved technical drawings for accuracy in construction, fit, and materials. We manage feedback and revisions across each round until the sample is approved for tooling and production.
What is a technical drawing?
A technical drawing is a precise, scaled illustration of a frame that communicates every structural detail to the manufacturer. It includes dimensions, radii, component breakdowns, material specifications, hinge placement, and finish callouts. This document aka blue print of eyewear serves as a reference throughout development, production and helps ensure the final product matches the approved design.
What are the different types of samples?
Depending on the project, the sampling process may include fit samples, color samples, and pre-production samples. Fit samples are used to refine the shape, sizing, and wearability of the frame. Color samples are used to evaluate and confirm the color combinations, material finishes, and overall aesthetic of the frame. The pre-production sample is the approved final version, confirming all materials, finishes, and details before production begins.
How does the process of sample review and approval work before the production or tooling?
We conduct a thorough review of the sample against the approved technical drawings, design, fit, proportions, and materials. We then share detailed feedback with the manufacturer, request revision if needed, and continue the process until the sample is approved for production or tooling.
Production & Sourcing
Can you manage production and sourcing on our behalf?
Yes. We can manage sourcing, production coordination, and quality control oversight on your behalf. Clients who need production support only, without design involvement, are also welcome to engage us for that scope alone.
Do you work with specific eyewear manufacturers, or can you collaborate with our existing suppliers?
We have a network of trusted, pre-vetted eyewear manufacturers we work with regularly. We are also comfortable collaborating with your existing suppliers if you have preferred partners.
Which regions do you typically source and manufacture from?
We primarily source and manufacture from Italy, China, and Japan, depending on the brief and budget. Each region offers different strengths in materials, craftsmanship, and price point. We align sourcing with the project needs, target retail price, and the brand’s DNA and storytelling.
How do you control quality throughout the production process?
Our quality control process includes detailed technical briefs from the outset, sampling review and approval at each stage, QC inspection by third party inspectors after production, and a final inspection of one set of each SKU pulled from production and reviewed in our New York studio before shipment.
materials & sustainability
What materials do you work with?
We work with a broad range of eyewear materials, including acetate (standard and bio-based), metals (titanium and stainless steel), injected plastic/TR-90, and 3D printed materials. Material selection is guided by the brief, intended use, aesthetics, durability, weight, and production requirements.
Do you offer sustainable or eco-friendly material options?
Yes. We source eco-friendly and sustainable material options for both eyewear and eyewear packaging when this is a priority for the client and a core part of the brand’s positioning and storytelling. We are well-versed in the available alternatives and happy to build this into the brief from the start.
pricing & engagement
How are your services structured and priced?
Our pricing is tailored to each project. We provide a detailed proposal following an initial consultation, outlining the scope of work, deliverables, and associated fees.
Do you offer project-based engagements, monthly retainers, or both?
We offer both. Project-based engagements are suited to defined, time-limited work. Monthly retainers work well for brands that need consistent ongoing support, whether for a full year, half year, or a single quarter. We are happy to discuss which structure best fits your situation.
Do you offer initial consultation before starting a project?
Yes. We offer a complimentary 60-minute initial consultation to understand your needs, discuss how we work, and explore whether we are the right fit for your project.
Have more questions?
We’re happy to assist. Please reach out and we’ll get back to you.