For independent brands
Services · Small batch
Small batch eyewear manufacturing for independent brands.
Runs that suit the way independent brands actually work — small, iterative and tied to specific drops rather than year-long forecasts.
Handmade production for smaller runs
Small batch means we set the workshop up around your models, cut what is agreed, and move on. It suits independent brands who want quality control, real conversation with the maker and the option to change acetate colour or a small detail between runs without paying to retool a factory.
Who it suits
- Independent brands producing collections in short cycles
- Opticians launching their own house frame
- Designers releasing limited editions or capsule drops
- Established brands adding a UK-made line to an existing range
How the process runs
- Step 01
Range planning
We look at the number of models, sizes and colourways and agree what makes sense to cut together.
- Step 02
Confirm samples
Each model is sampled in production acetate so nothing is a surprise at scale.
- Step 03
Cutting and forming
Fronts and temples are CNC cut, heat formed, cored and riveted in the workshop.
- Step 04
Hand finishing
Each frame is tumbled and hand polished. Reject rate is kept low by catching problems on the bench, not at packing.
- Step 05
Packing and dispatch
Frames are inspected, packed and dispatched to your specification.
Order quantities and timelines are agreed per project, once the brief is confirmed.
Materials and workshop capabilities
- Italian and Japanese block acetate
- Multiple colourways within one production window
- Change of hinge, core or engraving between runs
- Optional prescription glazing before dispatch
- Serial or model numbering if you want it
- Frame stamping and interior branding
What to include in your enquiry
- Number of models and estimated pairs per model
- Acetate colours and any samples you already have
- Whether you have production-ready drawings or need help getting there
- Any packaging or branding requirements
- Timing around launches, trade shows or lookbook shoots
Frequently asked
Questions we hear about small batch eyewear manufacturing.
- Is small batch cheaper per pair than mass production?
- No — small batch is set up for flexibility, not scale. It suits brands who value control, provenance and short lead-times over the lowest possible unit cost.
- Can I change acetate colour between runs?
- Yes. Small batch is designed for that. Each run is planned around the sheets in stock and any new sheets we source for you.
- What quantities do you cut?
- Run sizes are agreed per project. We plan the run around the range and the brand, not around a fixed minimum.
Related services
Eyewear manufacturing in the UK
The full manufacturing service the workshop is built around.
Read more →Eyewear prototyping
Get a sample in production acetate before you commit to a run.
Read more →Eyewear design and technical support
Turn sketches or a mood board into production-ready drawings.
Read more →Send an enquiry
Tell us about your project.
We'll come back to you with next steps and any questions we need answered before we quote.