If you're wondering how to turn a product idea into something tangible and marketable, the story of the Pad Tie is for you! Here are some questions we asked Kimberly Lavon to gain insight on her creative and business process.
What is Pad Tie?
Pad Tie is the world’s first sticker-based book band! It's a contemporary take on a classic, designed to fit all book sizes, work for both right and left-handed people, and won’t damage your books or paper. It’s a win-win-win.
How did you get the idea for it?
The idea came to me in my very first college drawing class. I had to carry a ton of supplies and books to and from class multiple times a week. My sketchbook had a paper cover, and all the pages inside were getting torn, bent, or folded. It was a nightmare. I had to come up with a solution to keep my book closed. That’s when I made a rudimentary version out of duct tape and painter's tape. I used that setup for more than a decade before turning it into a product.
Tell us about the process of getting Pad Ties manufactured.
Originally, Pad Tie was going to be made from two basic stickers. What made the plan work was finding a sticker producer who had invented their own version of a restickable sticker. I was going to order that product, test it, then send the art to have them do all the fulfillment. My plan failed when I got the sample—it didn’t do what was advertised. I was crushed. The unexpected delay made me look at other potential materials. I contacted adhesive manufacturers and asked for samples. I looked at existing products to see what they were using and tested those samples. I even attempted to make every part of the process a new invention until finding an existing substrate with diverse application options. After 28,000 beta tests, I found the perfect combination and launched Pad Tie shortly after.
What is it like pitching to and working with big retailers?
This part can be scary, but after you reach out a few times, it’s like riding a bike. All I did was write a small introduction letter and ask them about the process for submitting the product. That’s it! These organizations have their own ways of doing things. Asking for their process shows them you’re a team player and a professional. You don’t know what you don’t know, so treat them like the humans they are and ask for what you want. If they think you’re a good fit, they’ll send you the next steps, politely decline, or not answer at all. No answer means no, for the record. If you don’t believe me, you can send one follow-up email to confirm.
What are your next steps for Pad Tie?
Pad Tie has recently begun a small business program to get the direction, support, and insight we need to grow. We are also working on opening a store on Amazon and growing our in-person services to include more stockists. We’re currently featured in The Artisan Alcove, The Spark at Kendall College of Art and Design, Lansing Art Gallery, and coming soon to The Capital City Market. Our plan for next year is to be carried by every Staples, Michael’s, Hobby Lobby, and art school bookstore across the nation. Indie retailers are welcome as well!
What is your advice for someone who has a great product idea but doesn't know where to start?
I’ve found the best solution for this, and it is so easy you won’t believe me when I share it. It’s called the Hatch notebook. It takes your idea from step one to step done in a few simple steps. You have to pick up a copy for yourself to see the awesome. Shared in this article are a few pics of mine to show you the process. It’s what helped me sort through my many ideas to focus exclusively on Pad Tie. It’s also helped me locate a few other genius ideas to implement in the future. I promise you’ll love it. Use your Pad Tie on it when you get a copy!
Want Your Own Set of Pad Ties?
For 10% off your first purchase use Coupon Code: CREATIVEBAGGAGE at checkout.
Your purchase will also help support the resources for creatives we provide!
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