Step 1: Define Your Design Vision Clearly
Before you even contact a manufacturer, you must have a crystal clear idea of what you want. This includes the design style, material, colors, and technical specifications
Creating a Tech Pack or Design Sheet
A Tech Pack is your best friend in manufacturing. It communicates every detail about your design to the factory from measurements to thread color.
A good tech pack includes:
- Flat sketches or mockups
- Fabric composition details
- Stitching methods
- Color codes (Pantone references)
- Label and packaging instructions
You don’t need to be a fashion designer tools like Adobe Illustrator, Canva, or online tech pack templates can help you create professional documents.
Choosing the Right Fabric and Materials
Fabric defines the comfort, drape, and overall aesthetic of your apparel. When selecting materials, consider:
- Seasonality: Cotton for summer, fleece for winter, etc.
- Purpose: Sportswear needs breathability, while hoodies need warmth.
- Durability and feel: Test fabric weight and softness before finalizing.
Pro Tip: Always request fabric swatches before making your final decision.
Types of Clothing Samples You Can Request
There are different types of samples depending on your stage:
Types of Clothing Samples You Can Request
There are different types of samples depending on your stage:
- Prototype Sample: Early design concept to test the idea.
- Fit Sample: To check measurements and fit.
- Sales Sample: Used for marketing or showing to potential buyers.
- Pre-production Sample (PPS): The final version before mass production.
Average Sample Production Time
On average, sample production takes 7 to 21 days, depending on complexity of the work.
During this phase you will receive progress photos or videos.
Step 2: Finding the Right Clothing Manufacturer
The right manufacturer is the difference between success and failure in the clothing industry. A good one delivers consistent quality, transparent communication, and reliable timelines.
How to Evaluate Manufacturers’ Sample Quality
Look for manufacturers who:
- Offer sample services before bulk orders
- Share real photos or videos of production
- Have strong reviews or testimonials
- Are open to customization requests
For example, Fashion Flair Pvt Ltd clothing company is a custom apparel manufacturer in Pakistan, allows brands to create personalized samples before production, ensuring accuracy and confidence.
Checking Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ) and Pricing
Each manufacturer sets a MOQ the minimum quantity you must order. For startups, low MOQ clothing manufacturers are ideal because they allow small test runs before scaling up.
Ask questions like:
- What is your sample cost?
- Can I order one sample before bulk production?
- How long does it take to complete?
Step 3: Requesting Sample Production
Once you’ve chosen a manufacturer and finalized your design, it’s time to order your sample.
Types of Clothing Samples You Can Request
There are different types of samples depending on your stage:
- Prototype Sample: Early design concept to test the idea.
- Fit Sample: To check measurements and fit.
- Sales Sample: Used for marketing or showing to potential buyers.
- Pre-production Sample (PPS): The final version before mass production.
Average Sample Production Time
On average, sample production takes 7 to 14 days at Fashion Flair Garments manufacturing company, depending on complexity of the work.
Ensure you stay in contact with the manufacturer during this phase to receive progress photos or videos.
Step 4: Reviewing and Refining the Sample
Once your sample arrives, it’s time to evaluate it carefully.
How to Measure Quality and Fit Accurately
Here’s what to check:
- Stitching and seam strength
- Fabric softness and color match
- Label accuracy and placement
- Fit and comfort (try it on or use a mannequin)
Communicating Revisions Effectively
Use clear photos, videos, or annotated PDFs to explain your feedback. Avoid vague phrases like “it looks weird.” Instead, say, “the shoulder seam should be 1cm lower.”
Manufacturers appreciate detailed, professional communication it saves time and confusion.
Step 5: Approving the Final Sample for Bulk Production
Once all revisions are complete, and you’re satisfied, issue a final approval.
What to Include in a Final Approval Checklist
- Correct size and measurements
- Accurate colors and prints
- Proper labels and tags
- Quality fabric and stitching
- All accessories (zippers, buttons, etc.)
Approval means production will replicate this sample for all pieces so check carefully.
Step 6: Common Mistakes to Avoid When Ordering Samples
Even experienced brands can make errors. Here are a few to avoid:
- Not creating a proper tech pack
- Skipping fabric swatches
- Giving vague feedback
- Not confirming shipping details
- Rushing approvals
Patience and attention to detail are key to achieving premium results.
Tips to Build a LongTerm Relationship with Your Manufacturer
Always provide honest feedback
- Pay on time
- Respect production timelines
- Share your growth plans it motivates manufacturers to support you
- Recommend them if you’re happy loyalty builds trust
- When your manufacturer feels like a partner, not just a vendor, your quality and reliability improve over time.
How to Kickstart ?
If you have a clear techpack or mockup get in touch, if not no worries Fashion Flair is always with you.