Crafting Quality and Honoring Legacy – Exclusive Interview with Tony Gomez
Twins Pleating & Smocking, a family-owned business in Los Angeles, California, specializes in high-quality fabric enhancement services, including hand and machine pleating, intricate smocking, and specialty stitching techniques for the fashion, home textile, and design industries. Founded in 1995 by Roberto Gomez and now led by his son Tony, the company upholds over 40 years of craftsmanship, emphasizing ethical production made entirely in the USA with no minimum order requirements to accommodate projects of any scale. Renowned for their precision, innovation, and customer-centric approach – serving clients like Marvel and Netflix and even being featured at the Met Gala – Twins delivers prompt service, competitive pricing, and enhancements such as embroidery, quilting, and heat transfers that elevate fabrics with timeless elegance. Tony Gomez is the CEO, one of the two twins, and the son of the Founder.
Tony Gomez, President
Tell us about your greatest career achievement so far.
Seeing our work represented at the Met Gala was a proud moment. Our team contributed to Ruth E. Carter’s stunning Teyana Taylor look, a true celebration of culture, craftsmanship, and collaboration. Moments like these remind me that small, dedicated studios like ours can have a global impact.
What are you excited about currently?
We’re in the middle of a full brand refresh, including the launch of our new website with Disruptive Agency and Madhaus Studio. My business development partner, Robert Liljenwall, and I are excited to show the next evolution of Twins Pleating & Smocking, blending heritage craftsmanship with a modern presentation.
How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance?
I’ve learned that success means nothing without balance. I keep my workweek to about 40 hours, then shift my focus to family. Helping my kids with homework, having dinner together, and being present matters. That time keeps me grounded and reminds me why I work so hard in the first place.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years from now?
In ten years, I want full financial freedom and the ability to choose how I spend my time. My goal is to build systems and opportunities that let me step back when I want to, while my business keeps growing and supporting others. I also believe in giving back, so I want to volunteer more and help at a bigger scale. I’ve seen how hard my father worked, and I want to honor that by working smarter and creating something sustainable, not just for me but for everyone who’s part of it.
What would you like to achieve for yourself and your business in the future?
I want to own the building we operate from and expand into real estate as part of my long-term business portfolio. It’s about creating stability, growth, and independence, not just for me, but for the generations that come after. I’m focused on building assets that give me options and protect the legacy my father started.
What inspired you to create Twins Pleating and Smocking?
My father founded Twins Pleating & Smocking in 1995 after years in garment manufacturing. He built it from nothing and worked until his last day, something I deeply admire. When I took over, I made it my mission to grow what he built while also creating a business model that supports balance and opportunity for everyone involved. Offering employees retirement plans and benefits is an example of what I consider to be progress.
What services or products does Twins Pleating & Smocking offer?
We specialize in fabric manipulation, pleating, smocking, and vintage stitching. Clients send us their materials and vision, and we transform them using rare USA-made machinery. I use the term “Vintage Stitching” to describe our process because what we do is part art, part engineering and almost no one does it this way anymore.
How do they address the needs of your target audience?
We cater to designers and brands who value craftsmanship and want to create garments that last. Slow fashion isn’t just a trend, it’s our foundation. Every fold, stitch, and detail is intentional.
What are the criteria for a client to work with you?
We work best with clients who understand that real quality takes time. If you want to add value and longevity to your garment, we’re your team.
Is there a common challenge that your customers face? How are you helping them to face this challenge?
Scale is always a challenge. Manufacturers overseas demand high minimums, but we offer flexibility with better quality and control. That’s why we’ve been trusted by brands like Reformation and Los Angeles Apparel, as well as costume teams for Black Panther, Dancing with the Stars, and Joker. Whether it’s on-screen or on the runway, our craftsmanship holds up.
What sets Twins Pleating & Smocking apart from other services in the industry?
We’re a niche business in a small community of specialists. Everyone knows each other, and we all bring something unique to the table. Our edge is consistency, relationships, and a focus on quality, not shortcuts.
How does your company differentiate itself from competitors in the industry?
Hospitality is everything. I approach every project like it’s a partnership, listening first, then tailoring our process around what the client truly needs. Whether it’s a new designer or a global brand, we treat everyone with the same attention and respect.
In your experience, what are some common misconceptions about your industry?
People think fashion manufacturing is glamorous, but it’s one of the toughest and most regulated industries in L.A. We’ve had to navigate constant scrutiny around labor and compliance, but we’ve done it ethically and proudly. That transparency is part of our DNA.
How do you foster connections and support among your audience?
By leading with integrity. We pay fair wages, offer 401(k)s and health options, and refuse to participate in sweatshop practices. That allows us to align with brands that share those values. Our work is slow fashion, quality, care, and respect for the craft and the people behind it.
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