Introduction
When it comes to launching a new clothing line or expanding your existing one,
sampling before playing any bulk order plays a crucial role in ensuring the final product meets your expectations.
Properly preparing your garments for sampling plays a key part to achieving your desired design, quality and fit.
In this guide, we will walk you through the garment sampling process, from making a sample to reviewing it.
How do you make a garment sample?
To create a garment sample, you will need to follow the following steps:
A) Pattern Making: The first step to making a physical garment is to create a pattern, which serves as a blueprint for your garment.
This pattern outlines the shapes and dimensions required to cut and sew the fabric correctly.
B) Fabric Selection: Choose the appropriate fabric for your garment. For example, sports leggings will need to contain elastane to sculpt around the lower body where sports jogger will normally have a 100% cotton or a cotton/polyester blend, with or without a brushed lining.
C) Cutting, Printing & Sewing: All the panels on the pattern are cut to create the fabric pieces.
If the panel has art work such as a print or embroidery these are then added to the panels before being sewn together to create the sample garment.
Ensure that the sample is made with attention to detail and precision.
Any printed or embroidered logos are added after the fabric is cut and before the panels are sewn.
What is the garment sampling process?
The garment sampling process can include several stages to ensure the quality and functionality of the final product.
These stages can typically include:
A) Fit Sample: The first sample, known as the fit sample, focuses on assessing the garment’s fit and proportions.
This sample is crucial in identifying any necessary adjustments before proceeding to the next stage.
B) Size Set Sample: Once the fit sample is approved, a size set sample is created.
This sample encompasses various sizes to evaluate how the garment performs across different body types.
C) Pre-Production Sample: The pre-production sample is a near-final representation of the garment,
produced using the actual fabric and trims intended for mass production.
It allows you to assess the overall look, quality, and functionality before moving to bulk production.
What factors should you consider when analysing a garment?
When analysing a garment sample, consider the following factors to ensure its quality and suitability:
A) Fit and Proportions: Evaluate how the garment fits on different body types
and ensure the proportions are balanced.
B) Construction and Stitching: Examine the stitching and construction techniques
to ensure durability and professional craftsmanship.
C) Fabric Quality: Assess the fabric for its texture, drape, colour fastness,
and any potential issues like pilling or fading.
D) Finishing Details: Pay attention to the finishing details such as buttons, zippers, trims,
and labels to ensure they are of high quality and properly applied.
How do you review a garment sample?
To review a garment sample effectively, follow these steps:
A) Detailed Inspection: Thoroughly examine each component, checking for any defects, stitching irregularities, or fabric flaws.
B) Fit Assessment: Try on the sample or use fit models to evaluate how the garment fits and feels.
Note any necessary adjustments for improved comfort and fit.
C) Functionality Testing: Test the garment’s functionality by moving around, sitting,
or performing relevant activities to ensure it meets the intended purpose.
D) Feedback Documentation: Provide clear and detailed feedback to your clothing manufacturer or sample maker,
highlighting areas of improvement and necessary changes.
Conclusion:
Preparing your garments for sampling is a vital step in the clothing production process.
By following the steps outlined in this guide and paying attention to critical factors during analysis and review,
you can ensure the final product meets your expectations.
Collaborating closely with experienced clothing manufacturers will also help you achieve superior results.
Good luck with your garment sampling journey!