In the world of kitchenware manufacturing, especially for silicone utensils, design matters. The curve of a handle, the angle of a spoon, even the thickness of a slotted turner—all these little details combine to create tools that are not only functional but also visually unique and brand-defining.
Last week, we had two new clients who approached us with great interest. Both wanted to launch their own series of silicone kitchen tools and had seen a style they really liked. The design was from one of our existing clients. Naturally, they hoped to create something similar using the same molds or structure.
But there was a challenge:
That design is not open to the public. It belongs exclusively to our client, and we have a responsibility to protect their intellectual property and confidential design.
Why Design Protection Matters
In manufacturing, especially in private label or OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) business, design protection is a serious matter. Clients spend a lot of time, money, and creativity developing a look or feel that fits their brand. When they choose a factory like ours to make that product, they trust us to keep their idea safe—not to show or reuse it for others.
This is how we build long-term partnerships, and this is why many clients—some even well-known global brands—choose to work with us. We respect their investment.
In this case, our client’s design is exclusive, and we are not allowed to offer, modify, or share any version of it with others, even if a new client wants just a small change.
What If You Want Something Similar?
We understand. You may find a design that feels perfect for your market. And it’s frustrating to hear, “Sorry, that design is confidential.” But don’t worry—you still have options.
In fact, one of the clients came up with a creative solution:
“Can we keep the shape but just shorten the handle?”
It’s a smart idea—on the surface, it looks different enough to be new, while still capturing some of the original style. But even in this case, we cannot modify the existing mold or share part of the original design, because that still counts as a variation of the protected product.
So what’s the next step?
Bring Your Own Design Draft
If you want to do a similar project, you’ll need to create your own design draft. That means working with a designer to draw out:
- The full product shape (including handle length, head shape, thickness, etc.)
- Measurements
- Color preferences
- Material details (silicone with nylon core, stainless steel core, etc.)
Once you share this with us, we can check feasibility, give professional advice, and begin developing your unique mold. That way, your product belongs to you—just like our existing client’s belongs to them.
Why You Should Develop Your Own Design
Here are some benefits to creating your own:
- You Own It – No one else can copy it or claim it’s theirs.
- It Fits Your Market – You can customize the color, shape, or length based on what your target customers want.
- Higher Brand Value – A custom product stands out better than a “me-too” product.
- You Avoid Legal Risk – Copying another product’s design can cause legal issues, especially if the original owner has a design patent or industrial design protection.
And as your manufacturing partner, we are here to guide you through the process. We’ll review your draft, help with adjustments if needed, and give you an honest opinion about the practicality and cost of your idea.
What If You Don’t Have a Designer?
No worries—we can help recommend a few freelance designers who have experience in kitchenware product drawing. Some of our clients also use simple tools like Canva or even PowerPoint to show their ideas, and we turn those into 2D or 3D drafts.
What matters is that the core idea comes from you—not from another client’s protected product.
Let’s Build Something That’s Yours
We’re a factory that has been making silicone and plastic kitchenware for over 30 years. Many of our long-term clients started with just a rough sketch and a dream. Today, they have their own product line, sometimes even bestsellers on Amazon or in retail stores.
So if you love a certain look but can’t use it because it’s protected—that’s okay. Let’s take that inspiration and create something that’s truly yours. We’ll be with you every step of the way.
We know that design confidentiality can feel like a barrier—but actually, it’s a sign of trust and quality. It means we treat every client’s idea with the same care we would want for our own.
If you’re ready to build your own design and brand, just contact us. We’re not just a factory—we’re your partner in bringing great ideas to life.
