Starting a custom sunglasses project is exciting, but jumping in without preparation leads to delayed samples, unexpected costs, and mismatched expectations. Over years of working with first-time private label buyers, we have identified a consistent set of information that every factory needs before they can give you an accurate quote, timeline, and feasibility assessment. This checklist walks through each item so your first conversation with a manufacturer is productive from the start.
Key principle: The more complete your initial brief, the more accurate your first quote will be. Missing information does not stop the conversation, but it does mean the factory will make assumptions that may not match your actual requirements. Spending 30 minutes preparing a clear brief saves weeks of back-and-forth later.
The factory's first questions will be about what you want to make and how many. Be prepared to answer:
Material choice affects MOQ, mold cost, production lead time, per-unit pricing, and available customization options. If you are unsure which material to choose, the factory can recommend based on your target market and budget. Here is what to consider:
Acetate
Premium look with the widest color and pattern options. Custom lamination, tortoise patterns, and two-tone colors possible. Higher MOQ (typically 300+ per design). 45–60 day lead time for new molds. Best for: fashion brands, premium positioning, retail stores.
TR90 / PC
Lightweight, flexible, impact-resistant. Excellent for sports and active lifestyle brands. Lower MOQ (200+ per design possible). 30–45 day lead time. Best for: sports brands, Amazon sellers, kids collections, outdoor brands.
Metal (Stainless Steel / Titanium)
Slim profiles with a premium feel. Titanium offers the lightest weight. Laser welding and electroplating processes apply. MOQ typically 300–500 per design. Best for: optical frames, luxury brands, minimalist designs.
Hybrid (Mixed Materials)
Combines acetate temples with metal fronts, or TR90 with metal accents. Creates distinctive design language. Production complexity is higher, lead time may be longer. Best for: brands wanting a signature aesthetic that stands out in the market.
You do not need finished technical drawings to start a conversation. The factory can work from reference images, sketches, or descriptions of what you want. Here is what to gather:
Lenses are often overlooked in the initial brief, but they significantly affect per-unit cost and market positioning. Specify these details early:
|
Specification |
Common Options |
What to Specify |
|
Lens material |
TAC, PC, Nylon, or Glass |
Pick one or ask for recommendation based on use case |
|
UV protection |
UV400 (standard), UV420 (extended) |
UV400 is the minimum recommended for all sunglasses |
|
Polarization |
Yes or No |
Polarized adds $1–3 per unit; consider offering both versions |
|
Base tint color |
Grey, Brown, Green, Yellow, Gradient |
Grey is the most popular all-purpose choice |
|
Special coatings |
Mirror, Anti-scratch, Anti-fog, Hydrophobic |
Anti-scratch is recommended for all PC lenses as a minimum |
Branding and packaging turn a generic product into your brand's product. These details affect both production cost and customer perception. Prepare the following before contacting the factory:
Logo Files
Vector format required (AI, EPS, or CDR). Have both a horizontal and stacked version ready. Specify exact Pantone colors for your logo. If you have a brand style guide, share it.
Logo Placement and Method
Where should your logo appear? Common locations: left temple exterior (most popular), both temples, lens etch, inside temple, bridge, or metal plaque on temple. Methods: laser engraving, hot stamping, pad printing, or metal inlay. Each method has different MOQ and cost implications.
Packaging Requirements
Decide on: case type (standard hard case, custom branded case, or soft pouch), cleaning cloth (branded or standard), outer box (branded or plain), hang tag, and any insert cards. Custom packaging typically requires separate MOQ and adds 2–3 weeks to the overall timeline.
Target Retail Price Point
Tell the factory your target retail price range. This helps them recommend the right material, lens, and packaging combination that fits your margin structure. A brand targeting $25 retail needs different specs than one targeting $120 retail.
Factory production tooling prepared for custom eyewear manufacturing
Different markets have different regulatory requirements. Telling the factory where you plan to sell ensures they include the correct certifications and documentation:
Before you send your first email to the factory, confirm you have addressed each item below. A complete brief leads to a faster, more accurate response:
Full custom eyewear production from your design concept to finished product
Browse acetate frame styles with full customization options for your brand
ISO 9001, CE, FDA, and quality management documentation available for your compliance needs
Sport and active lifestyle frames with lightweight, impact-resistant materials
Download current collection catalogs and specification sheets for reference
Vibratory finishing machines, centrifugal polishing systems, magnetic deburring equipment, and surface treatment consumables for eyewear and metal parts manufacturing
Send us your product type, frame material preference, design references, lens specifications, logo files, packaging requirements, and target quantity. We will provide a feasibility assessment, timeline estimate, and pricing guidance within 1–2 business days.
Submit Your Project Brief
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