A micro design practice for bags and luggage, run by someone with 25 years of softgoods design and manufacturing experience.
632Design is the consultancy practice of John Clark, a bag designer, developer and maker based in Manchester. It exists alongside an active workshop facility, and works with brands, start-ups and established companies on carry products and softgoods from concept through to launch.
John Clark · Designer, developer, maker
I’ve spent the last twenty five years working on bag and carry products. Roughly half in-house with sports and lifestyle brands, and half in a freelance capacity. Most of that time has been split between the design desk and the workshop bench, which is probably the most useful thing about how I work. I love to sketch conceptually but I can quickly zero in on what I know can be cut, sewn, moulded and made, and I prototype the bits I’m not sure about before they become someone else’s problem.
The studio runs alongside an active in-house workshop. It started as a testing ground for product ideas, materials, manufacturing methods and carry systems, and it still does that job. Products developed here have been recognised internationally, including a Highly Commended award from Carryology.
Through 632Design I help clients develop bag & carry products from early ideation through to production. Some projects are about creative direction and getting an idea off the ground. Others are about quietly fixing the technical detail so a sample can finally come back from a factory looking like the drawing. Most projects are actually all of that and a spectrum of other aspects, always working in collaboration with you, your team and your selected supplier.
I work with a small number of clients at a time, intentionally. The aim is to be properly involved rather than spread thin, and push complete projects through in a timeline that fits for both you and your factory, for the most streamlined development.
Manufacturing isn’t an abstract concern here.
The workshop runs from the same studio. Pattern cutting, sample sewing, hardware testing, all of it happens within a few metres of the design desk. That shortens loops, sharpens decisions, and keeps the design work real.
632Design is the trading name of John Clark, operating as a sole trader. Manchester, United Kingdom.