A manufacturer can only quote what it can see. The clearer your brief, the faster you get a quote you can trust, and the fewer surprises appear at sampling. This checklist covers what to send, from a simple sketch to a full tech pack.
What is a tech pack?
A tech pack is the technical document that describes how a garment is made. It tells a factory the shape, measurements, materials, construction details and finishing, so the sample matches your intention without guesswork. If you are new to this, start with the essentials below and add detail as the project moves forward.
The essentials every quote needs
- A technical sketch with front and back views. Flat drawings are enough; they do not need to be artistic.
- A measurement chart for your base size, with the points of measure you care about and any tolerance.
- Fabric information: composition, weight, and a swatch or a reference to the exact quality.
- Trims: buttons, zips, labels, hangtags, with colour and size if known.
- Quantities per style, colour and size range, even as an estimate.
- Timeline: when you need the goods and for which market.
Details that make quotes more accurate
- Construction notes. Seam types, stitch details, linings, interlining and pocket construction all affect cost and time.
- Colour references. A physical swatch or a shared colour system avoids lengthy back-and-forth.
- Wash and finish. Garment wash, pressing or special finishes change price and lead time.
- Label and packing instructions. Where labels sit, how pieces are folded and packed, and any retailer requirements.
- A reference garment. If you have a similar piece you like, send it or describe it. It is often worth more than a page of text.
If you do not have a tech pack yet
Many brands start with a sketch, a reference image and a rough fabric idea. That is a perfectly good starting point. A production partner can help turn it into a proper specification during sampling, and the first sample then becomes your reference. You can see how the stages follow each other on our process page.
Mistakes that slow projects down
- Vague fabric descriptions. "Soft cotton" can mean very different qualities and prices.
- Missing quantities. Price per piece depends on volume, so a range is better than silence.
- Changing the style after the quote. Small design changes can change cost; flag them early.
- No measurement tolerance. Agree on acceptable tolerance before production, not after.
Send us your brief
You do not need a perfect document to begin. Request a quote, describe your styles and quantities, and attach what you have. We will tell you what is still needed and what the next step is.
FAQ
Do I need a full tech pack to get a quote?
No. A clear sketch, fabric idea, estimated quantities and a timeline are enough to start. More detail makes the quote more precise.
What should a measurement chart include?
Your base size, the points of measure that matter for the style, and the tolerance you accept for each.
Can I send a reference garment instead of a drawing?
Yes. A reference garment is very helpful, ideally together with notes on what you want to keep or change.
