Importance of Preparing Tech Pack Before Apparel Production
The tech pack for a garment style is at the heart of apparel sample development and production. It provides direction for every party involved in the apparel production life cycle, from the pattern maker and sampling department to the production unit and supporting vendors such as print and embroidery. The tech pack also serves as a benchmark for measuring quality and ensuring proper design and fit. Following the tech pack during production is crucial for achieving perfect results. It's essential that the tech pack is finalized and delivered by the tech pack designer before the buyer invests money into manufacturing.
Here are a few pointers on how a perfect tech pack helps successful apparel production.
1. Smooth and Error Free Sample Development
Brands are often forced to experiment with styles during the sampling phase, especially when they're unsure how to achieve perfection. This approach is costly and time-consuming. However, when a tech pack is available, it provides direction to the pattern maker and factory, saving both time and money, and helping to achieve a sample that closely meets expectations. The tech pack gives the pattern maker and factory clear guidance for making the first sample as accurately as possible. By using a tech pack and partnering with a capable vendor, brands can optimize their sampling process.
2. Document of Understanding between Buyer and Clothing Manufacturer.
The Tech Pack is not only a set of instructions but also a document of understanding between the buyer and the manufacturer. It serves as a technical document for the manufacturer, outlining all technical aspects agreed upon by both parties, including raw materials, construction details, and points of measurement. Clothing manufacturers may attempt to reduce costs by altering materials and trims, and they may use substandard materials to save money. However, with a tech pack, conflicts can be avoided with minimal effort, as both the buyer and the manufacturer have agreed upon the technical specifications laid out in the tech pack. This ensures that the final product meets the buyer's expectations in terms of quality and technical standards.
3. Quality Assurance and Control
By referring to the technical drawing, it's possible to identify any gaps between the expected and actual sample and to assess whether there is scope for improvement. If the sample doesn't meet the standards or doesn't follow the instructions in the Tech Pack, necessary changes can be made. The tech pack serves as a parameter to assess the quality of the sample, and with approval, the final order can be processed. When working with an overseas vendor, the tech pack can be used as a tool to prove the agreed-upon standard, ensuring that the final product meets the required quality. In this way, the tech pack serves as a tool to access the quality standard and can be used to ensure that the final product meets expectations.
4. Most Effective Way of Communication
The tech pack is the most appropriate and proven method for communication with the manufacturer during garment development. The manufacturer can refer to this document at any stage of development, and it serves as the most efficient way to find answers to questions rather than searching through lengthy email threads. By using the tech pack, doubts can be reduced, and the clothing manufacturer has a single point of reference. This approach can save a significant amount of money by avoiding the preparation of the wrong sample and reducing logistic costs and development time. If anything goes wrong during sample development, the tech pack can be referred to for identifying gaps and making necessary revisions. Overall, fashion technical design is an essential tool for ensuring efficient communication and successful sample development.
5. Help you get an Accurate Quote for Sample Development and Production.
The Bills of Material included in a technical drawing make it clear to the manufacturer what materials to source, allowing for an accurate cost of production based on the production quantity. Showing the tech pack to the clothing manufacturer can ensure an accurate quote is offered, as it provides the manufacturer with all the necessary information to produce the garment to the required specifications. By using a tech pack, the clothing manufacturer can efficiently source the required materials, reducing the risk of errors and ensuring the final product meets the required standards. This approach can save significant time and money while ensuring the quality of the final product.
By following a proper process, it is possible to reduce the cost of garment manufacturing by up to 20%. The best way to approach a clothing manufacturer is with a technical design. Before approaching the manufacturer, you must prepare an apparel design and technical specifications for the style. The tech sheet helps the clothing manufacturer process the products in a systematic way, making the apparel production process more efficient and effective. By using a technical drawing, the garment manufacturer can save time and money, which ultimately reduces the cost of production. For smaller quantity orders, this could reduce the cost by approximately $1-$2 per piece of garment. The amount of reduction can vary based on the order quantity.
Urban Purple is a group of technical fashion designers and consultants who specialize in creating fashion Tech Packs. In addition, we run a digital download store offering fashion Tech Packs, graphics, and textile prints. Our Tech Pack template store offers a wide range of fashion Tech Packs that have been tested in factory environments. You can select your desired collection and purchase the Tech Packs that fit your needs. Our Tech Packs come with a detailed measurement spec sheet in Excel format and the source vector file. As fashion consultants and owners of the Tech Pack Template, we provide a comprehensive solution for all your fashion Tech Pack needs. Visit our online store today to download our Tech Pack templates with detailed size charts.