Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Amethyst Handbag Library?
Amethyst Handbag Library is the #1 database of its kind in the handbag industry. It works in conjunction with Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop software applications.
The database consists of handbag and component illustrations that allow designers to create and work faster on computer. The industry-recognized leader, AHL makes designing faster, easier and more cost-efficient, without comprimising creativity.
Are the sketches current?
AHL's Vector Subscription releases 50 new shapes every month covering what's hot in the industry.
Who is AHL for?
» Independent designers
» Retailers
» Manufacturers
» Students
What is it used for?
» The product is used to provide visual stimulation to creative minds, to inspire designers to create and design faster.
» The AHL helps to communicate product more clearly to sample makers and potential customers.
» The AHL offers high quality drawings and tools that allow you to transform your ideas into near photographic images within minutes.
» Merchandisers can create trend and storyboards, cost sheets, spec sheets, line sheets, pattern cards and other standard reports.
» Students can create portfolios for entry-level positions in the industry.
How is the product unique, different, to other similar design methods?
The AHL is designed specifically for the handbag industry. The AHL database of line art sketches highlight particular seasons, providing designers with key handbag silhouettes and treatments essential to stay on top of what’s happening in the marketplace.
What main benefits does it offer and how?
» Designs can be produced in minutes whereas by hand the process could take hours.
» AHL's computerized drawings offer a higher degree of accuracy than hand drawn sketches, resulting in better communication between designers and manufacturers.
» AHL provides thousands of handbag drawings for the cost of a few original samples that are invaluable after the season.
» You can lower your over-head by producing digital handbag designs before investing your dollars in sample development.
» The Amethyst Handbag Library eliminates hours of work and research, allowing you to focus more on the design interpretation and details and meet your rigorous deadlines.
» The database can help you express your ideas within seconds and manipulate them quickly.
» AHL easily teaches students the indispensable tools of Illustrator & Photoshop, providing designers with the technical skills that the handbag industry requires.
» The AHL provides the industry standard verbiage for construction in silhouettes providing you with the verbal skills required to communicate with professionals in the industry.
How would you explain this product to a potential buyer?
The product is an illustrated database of key handbag silhouettes happening in fashion, past and present, covering 40 years. The Library is composed of thousands of high quality line drawings categorized by silhouettes, components and textures available on CD or DVD. Included are indexes with thumbnail drawings for easy referencing.
Why spend that much for this program?
Amethyst Handbag Library saves companies and designers countless hours in product development and research. AHL's drawings can be used as templates each season, used and transformed over and over again. Many companies spend thousands of dollars on original samples that are only good for the one season.
What level in computer design software do users have to be at, to use AHL?
You need to have knowledge of Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop software.
What additional costs are involved?
You must own a relatively current copy of Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop software in order to work with AHL files. Training for programs like Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop is recommended if customers are not familiar with these software applications.
Where can I get a demo?
AHL exhibits twice a year at the Hong Kong APLF show. In 2008, AHL will be exhibiting within the USA. Check back for our calandar of events. www.aplf.com
Sold to whom?
Handbag industry top retailers and manufacturers from around the globe have purchased the AHL. Our customers include: Ecko, Rock & Republic, Dooney & Burke, Accessory Network, Nine West, Inge Christopher, Jones of New York, Kipling, Federated, K Mart, Mervyns, Jane Shilton, Oroton, Wylson, Diver, Bourne and Timberland.
Where can I purchase Amethyst Handbag Libray?
The Amethyst Handbag Library is available. www.amethysthandbaglibrary.com
We do accept orders over the phone. Call 1-949-206-0827 for more information.
What are my payment options?
We accept credit cards, Visa, MasterCard and American Express. We also accept bank transfers. Please contact us for our bank information.
Are there volume discounts available?
Yes. Amethyst Publishing offers flexible licensing options for small-, medium- and large-sized organizations, as well as educational institutions. Call 1-949-206-0827 for more information.
What kind of tech support do you offer your customers?
We are available 9 to 5 Los Angeles time to answer any questions you have in regards to the product. Any questions about Adobe software must be directed to Adobe tech support.
How can I find training for this product?
AHL Training CDs are included with AHL package purchases. Now available, Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop CS3 software training CDs. Amethyst also offers private training. Please contact us for more info.
Is this a stand-alone application or does it require other software to use the library?
AHL must be used in conjunction with Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop software.
Are measurements included?
AHL's Raster Edition contains H x W x D specs.
Can I just get a trial version to review the functionality of the library?
Yes, the Try before You Buy is provided online with free sample downloads. Download this trial now.
Are the images royalty free?
Yes
Do the illustrations include inside organization and pocketing?
Not currently.
Are the books available for purchase without the CDs?
No