Our cufflink design process: From inspiration, to sketch, to your cufflinks

Ever wondered about cufflink design? To give you a peek behind the Miss Links curtain, we sat down with our founder and designer Dianna Butterworth to learn how a cufflink goes from idea to product. 

How do you get your ideas? 

Cufflink design inspiration is everywhere. I’m always looking at the latest trends in fashion, home interiors, fabric design to see what colours and looks are on the agenda. Ultimately, it’s always about feminine and pretty looks. When I launched Miss Links back in 2012, I was frustrated with the angular male cufflinks in neutral colours. So that became the starting point for my first designs. Later, I added more abstract looks, like oyster, bloom and leaf. With that collection, I wanted to create a more edgy option, inspired by nature. 

How do you create the designs? 

Sometimes I start with the gemstone, like the Swarovksi crystals and create a design with the stone as the basis. Otherwise, inspiration strikes and I create a quick drawing. I’m no expert at this, so it can be tricky. Capturing the vision in my mind and turning it into a design for production is not my specialty. So, I use a designer who takes my rough sketches and turns them into CAD drawings. These are very specific—like architectural blueprints. 

Initial sketches: thought these were great at the time, ha!

CAD Drawing: this is more like it 

Final product: it’s always a thrill to see my vision for the product come to life

Do you ever abandon designs?

Yes, from time to time. When I get the prototype, I’m not loving it, then I won’t commission the production. I’ve abandoned a few. There was a dolphin that looked a bit odd. Plus, a rose that was too complex to produce. And a few clusters looked a bit… too grandmotherly! Sometimes, it’s only when I see the prototype that I know for sure the product won’t work. 

Where are the cufflinks made?

They are produced in China. I was hoping to have them manufactured in Australia but I simply could not find a provider. Locally, manufacturing is limited because China is so competitive, innovative and cost-efficient. 

How did you come up with your packaging? 

I am a fanatic for packaging! We all love getting my skincare or jewellery or other products in pretty boxes. I know I’m not alone because now I see all those unboxing videos on YouTube and Instagram (Even my kids watch unboxing videos of toys on YouTube). I see Miss Links as a luxury brand so I wanted a luxury finish. Each box is designed to as storage to keep your cufflink collection, with velvet lining on the box lid. 

I worked through plenty of options before I found the right solution. The packaging almost took longer to finalise than the products! One supplier couldn’t get the sturdiness of the box right, and another couldn’t replicate the right Miss Links brand colours. 

I’m also very fussy with how the ribbon is tied on the box, and I write a hand note to my customers with each delivery. 

What’s next for Miss Links? 

Unfortunately I am so busy with 2 businesses I am involved in, so Miss Links is on hold for the moment.  We are still around and sending out product to those that love the concept!