I design clothing, but don't sew much and am working to improve on my skills and learn how to draft my own patterns. I also design tees, jewelry, accessories, and graphics. I have a burning passion to begin a clothing line in the very near future, but don't have the capital I need and to be honest, credit isn't very good either and I would rather try to get grants and raise money other ways, if possible. I have a lot of time on my hands and at this point, will do WHATEVER I can to make it in the design world. I just need that chance and want to learn as much as I can about it all. I plan to go back to school here in July for Fashion and Retail Management, but I don't know that I'm willing to wait 4 years to make something happen just so I can have a degree.
So what I'm asking is...do you all have any advice for:
raising money
ways to market myself
how to make sure I'm targeting the right market
and/or just tips on what to do and not do when starting a company/clothing line???

I sincerely appreciate anything you all can help me with!

Peace, Love, and God Bless,
Kendra