Why You Need a Tech Pack for Clothing Manufacture
Minimize risk for both you and your manufacturer
by setting expectations before you start production you will reduce costs and bring your sewn product to market faster
Most manufacturers will not be willing to work with you unless you come prepared with a clear set of instructions. Those that will take your order without a tech pack only offer limited pre-production services and if you don’t know patterning or sewn construction, then communicating any changes could become confusing for both of you. A repeating cycle of sampling begins, and this is where the system breaks down. If you arrive to your manufacturer prepared, you significantly reduce sampling time and move on to production much faster.
Here are 10 more reasons to have a tech pack:
Establishes an “instruction manual” of your product for reference at any time, such as staff changeover.
Your design is in writing, so you have recourse if there are errors in production or something doesn’t go to plan.
Minimizes misunderstandings since all your design information is in a single document.
You’ll gain a greater understanding of how a garment is made, so you can speak in detail and intelligently about your design when selling to retailers or buyers.
You own the rights to your pattern.
You’ll have the flexibility to change manufacturers or use more than one manufacturer at a time.
You want to create or use your existing team of employees, suppliers, contractors and contacts.
You can develop your design in stages prior to manufacture to help spread out costs and go at a more comfortable pace.
Captures your potential manufacturers interest, because a tech pack shows them you are organized and ready to produce.
It’s the industry standard and looks professional.
Get professional help to prevent costly mistakes and increase your chance of success
At MADE, we help our clients develop their sewn product ideas and build professional tech packs to get to manufacture, but if you have decided to build your own pre-production package, you may want to have a professional review your work. It will go a long way to prevent costly mistakes and smooth the path to a successful launch. We offer Tech Pack Templates that include clear instructions and consultation time for any questions you may encounter.