how are frames designed and made?

**the jake** · 07-10-2010, 08:14 AM

I've done a lot of googling on this and couldn't find any results. I assume there is some kind of software program.

Does anybody know?

Btw, hope you all enjoy your weekend

**Jacqui** · 07-10-2010, 08:33 AM

Try using a pencil and paper for the design work, it's the easiest way. To make metal frames, you need formed metal (eyewire, temple,etc) and a soldering set-up plus pliers, files. For plastic you need blank plastic sheets and a rouiter. Have fun.

**Jacqui** · 07-10-2010, 08:34 AM

Why does everyone want to make thier own frames?? It seems we go through this about this time of year every year.

**Rogo99** · 07-10-2010, 08:50 AM

Most of the Chinese (and European) manufacturers have their own design and sampling departments. If you're looking to do private label products, consult some of them. They'll do the custom work for you.
Otherwise, get a good CAD-CAM program and Corel Draw.

**the jake** · 07-10-2010, 09:32 AM

Hey Jacqui,

I was simply curious. from your local CVS to the mall, frames are everywhere. Yet how they are designed and manufactured seems very niche and almost like a big secret (I did a lot of googling and asking reps with no results). So yeah, just curious :)

**Jacqui** · 07-10-2010, 10:11 AM

You will have to dig, but there are a FEW videos on You Tube about this.

**the jake** · 07-10-2010, 10:43 AM

link?

**Wes** · 07-10-2010, 12:45 PM

Originally Posted by Jacqui

You will have to dig, but there are a FEW videos on You Tube about this.

Jake, I think she was suggesting that if you wanted to see it, put in the legwork. We'll help, but we won't do everything for you.

**kcount** · 07-10-2010, 12:48 PM

Jake look up Tom Davies on youtube theres a two minute piece showing the process.

**Jacqui** · 07-10-2010, 01:36 PM

There are also some listed on the Open Optix site. I know Tom's is there plus a few others.

**HarryChiling** · 07-10-2010, 02:36 PM

Better yet since your in my territory call me and I'll come through with a few acetate sheets, you pick one I'll measure and educate you on what I'm doing and then you'll not only see it done first hand but you'll be wearing the evidence. (888)314-LENS

**braheem24** · 07-11-2010, 03:08 AM

"Chilling eyewear", already sounds hip.

**Ammo** · 07-11-2010, 09:41 PM

google "Roger Henley" - he is an Aussie designer and manufacturer who has a clip on his web page on how the glasses are made. The design is done on a computer program

**Jacqui** · 07-12-2010, 08:25 AM

Originally Posted by Ammo

google "Roger Henley" - he is an Aussie designer and manufacturer who has a clip on his web page on how the glasses are made. The design is done on a computer program

I've seen Henley's work a few different places on the web, nice!! I didn't know that he did all design work on a computer.

I wish Jerry Huang was around here more, he is the resident genius at this and may have more suggestions and places to look. You may also check "The Optical Vision Site" Cathy and Shirley have posted many articles about custom frames and some videos of them being made.

My own work is really "design on the fly". I do mostly custom frames for patients with facial abnormalities. Sometimes I get creative and design a sunglass, although these usually go out before I get a chance to photograph them (sometimes before they are even finished). When I do need a design on paper, I still use paper and pencil, it's easier when I change my mind.

**Chris Ryser** · 07-12-2010, 12:16 PM

Originally Posted by the jake

I've done a lot of googling on this and couldn't find any results. I assume there is some kind of software program.

Does anybody know?

This 57-page instantly downloadable StyleCareer.com eGuide Breaking Into and Succeeding as an Eyewear Designer brings you valuable insider tips, advice and suggestions not available elsewhere to help you embark on this highly lucrative career path..............................

http://www.stylecareer.com/eyewear_designer.shtml

**opticianbart** · 07-12-2010, 02:03 PM

Originally Posted by braheem24

"Chilling eyewear", already sounds hip.

I'd buy it. And just think, you could have a frame with a color like "Ice Blue."

**Crazy-bout-Optics** · 07-12-2010, 08:07 PM

Kind of random, found Roger's website and checked out his video. I never knew how much waste went into making plastic frames. Very interesting and informative.

**opticalcathy** · 08-04-2010, 01:11 PM

Thanks Jacqui for the shout-
BeSpoke Eyewear- custom eyewear is growing and when you ask about how frames are made, it depends on the materials.
You can check out some of these links for wood and handmade eyewear http://wwww.opticalvisionresources.com/eyewear-handmade
Roger Henley in Australia is excellent
Ralph Vaessen has a little on Custom Made Buffalo Horn http://www,opticalvisionresources.com/ralph-vaessen-custom-handmade-buffalo-horn-eyewear
Interesting Wood Eyewear by Matteo Ragni which shows how they cut the wood out of a single log http://http://opticalvisionresources...y-matteo-ragni

Since so much of our products are coming from China and other places it's pretty hard to get actual 'how to's. and many of the European Companies are not even showing product on their websites due to idea theft, unfortunately.
Flat Metal treatments seem to be very interesting, see new ic!Berlin and Nowosad (Poland) http://www.opticalvisionresources.co...ashion-eyewear is interesting using pliable flat metal. .. OK, I go on a little

**KStraker** · 08-04-2010, 03:02 PM

You send it to Italy for design, then they get some 10 year old in China to make it for you.

**rdcoach5** · 08-04-2010, 03:27 PM

Didn't they used to carve their designs? Back in the 50's and 60's?

**sharpstick777** · 08-04-2010, 05:28 PM

The design process depends on the manufacturer... The first thing Luxottica does is to look in your pocket and see how much money you have. Then they find out what you like, lets just say "bowling". They do a magic trick and while you are not look grab a frame off their shelf that has been used in 50 brands before... and ooh and ah over it for a few minutes. Next they license the name "Brunswick" and come back with the same frame with a new "Brunswick" name on it. You like the frame! Great! They order all the parts in china, except for the temple screw of course. Then they bring all the parts to Italy, drop a screw in the temple, and voila, a Brunswick frame made in Italy! Fantastico! Then they go back to what money you had in your pocket, subract a dollar, and then sell you a frame that costs them $6 to make for $79.79 before discounts. But of course if you buy our "American Idol Frame Line" we'll reduce the cost just for you (wink, wink)!

**JERRY HUANG** · 08-06-2010, 02:27 AM

Of course, u can design a frame with paper and pencil! Most in-house designers r using CorelDraw to outline the frame shape and then fill in colors with Photoshop. UG is great for 3-D effect.

How frames are being made?

Zyl frame----Carving with cutters in different profiles.
3-D look plastic frames are mostly done by injection process.
Metal frames require parts stamping, casting, soldering...etc
metal frames in sheet form are processed in laser cutting, chemical etching.

**Jacqui** · 08-06-2010, 06:49 AM

Originally Posted by JERRY HUANG

Of course, u can design a frame with paper and pencil! Most in-house designers r using CorelDraw to outline the frame shape and then fill in colors with Photoshop. UG is great for 3-D effect.

How frames are being made?

Zyl frame----Carving with cutters in different profiles.
3-D look plastic frames are mostly done by injection process.
Metal frames require parts stamping, casting, soldering...etc
metal frames in sheet form are processed in laser cutting, chemical etching.

The Master speaks.....finally :D