Ideas & design in development
It is a long and very unique process from the initial idea to the finished sweater, cardigan or hat. We would love to take you to one of our factories in Nepal for a few days so that you can experience first-hand how our PAPA LOBSTER products are made by our production partners with craftsmanship and attention to detail. But first, the entire development of ideas for the collections begins here in Germany and in Paris. On trips, walks in the fresh air or on numerous play afternoons with our children and their friends, for example.
The best inspiration for a baby and children's collection is found in everyday life. Initial sketches and color ideas are recorded, discussed and revised again and again. Then technical sketches with exact measurements are sent to Nepal to have the first samples, called protos (prototypes), made.
Work & production in the manufactory
In small traditional factories around Kathmandu, the knitters turn our designs into reality with skill and years of experience. We are in close contact with the production management in order to achieve the best possible result right from the prototype stage. The initial samples are then sent to Germany, where they are fitted on small models. Measurements are changed and cuts optimized. Color combinations are adjusted and perhaps a different button is selected. Until a product is perfect, two to three samples may travel back and forth between Nepal and Germany. We are only satisfied when our customer is satisfied. Before the go-ahead is given for the actual production, we ask for a complete set of sizes, because every style and every design requires its own measurements.
Then the time has finally come: production starts - always a very exciting phase for us. First, all the flat parts, such as the sleeves, front and back, are knitted on hand knitting machines. Then the cuffs, which are then linked to the corresponding counterparts in a separate step using the linking machine. This creates a three-dimensional piece.
Craftsmanship: attention to detail & expertise
At PAPA LOBSTER, we attach great importance to beautiful little details that make our collection unique and turn every style into a favorite. For example, our little stars on hats, scarves, jackets and baby blankets are individually embroidered by hand onto each product. One star alone takes several hours of work. Elbow patches, summery ajour patterns on girls' skirts and jackets, small knitted bows, differently colored bag pouches or hand-embroidered edges on our Oktoberfest jackets are other details that demand the utmost concentration from our knitters.
Our cashmere collection is not mass-produced - every single item is treated with love and care in the spirit of traditional craftsmanship. Personal and close contact with our production partners is extremely important to us because it is the foundation for transparent processes. We think that's a good feeling!
Buttons are then sewn onto each piece and buttonholes embroidered. A first quality check is carried out on a special light table, even the smallest defect is marked with a thread and returned to production to be repaired. The collection is sorted by style and color and washed. This process is called finishing and is particularly delicate.
Each cashmere color requires a different washing process so that all colors feel equally soft in the end. This work requires a great deal of dexterity and years of experience.
Finishing, labeling & quality check
As soon as our products are dry, they are lightly steamed one after the other. Again, the exact measurements are checked and adhered to - because a lot can go wrong when ironing. Now our labels are sewn in and all products are fitted with labels, spare buttons and thread before the final quality check. If everything is 100% correct, each cashmere item is folded and packed in a polybag with tissue paper so that it survives the long journey to Germany undamaged.