A clothing tech pack translates a design into instructions that a factory can quote, sample and repeat. It does not need elaborate presentation, but it must distinguish confirmed specifications from open decisions. A mood board explains a direction; it cannot tell a pattern maker where to measure a sleeve.
Start with the garment identity and drawings
Give each style a unique code, revision date and named contact. Include front and back drawings, plus details of pockets, seams, openings and interior construction. Annotate any feature hidden in a photograph. If you send a reference garment, identify which features to retain and which to change. Use references you are authorised to share and clarify ownership of new patterns and artwork.
Build a measurable specification
List points of measure, the sample size, measurement method and agreed tolerance for each point. A flat half-chest measurement is different from a body circumference. Draw arrows showing the start and finish of ambiguous measurements. Specify the intended fit and provide a grading rule or ask the development team to propose one. Approving a medium sample alone does not establish the largest and smallest sizes.
Separate materials from construction instructions
- Fabric: fibre percentages, construction, target GSM, colour reference and required finish.
- Trims: buttons, zips, elastic, drawcords, thread and their approved references.
- Construction: seam locations, stitch appearance, reinforcement and lining.
- Branding: editable artwork, dimensions, placement measured from fixed points and colour references.
- Packing: labels, size identifiers, folding and quantities by style, colour and size.
Mark an undecided fabric as an open item instead of inserting a guessed specification. Ask the factory to price alternatives separately and identify which options need a revised sample.
Use a revision log that prevents conflicting instructions
Keep one current document. Record each change with a date, photograph where useful and approval status. Replace vague feedback such as “make it less loose” with a marked measurement or a specific fit observation. Before bulk production, match the final file to the approved physical sample and confirm that earlier comments have been closed.
Questions before sending the file
Can a factory work without a complete tech pack?
Development can start from a clear reference and brief, but missing specifications need to be created and approved. Ask who prepares those files and whether that work is included in the development fee.
Should every detail be fixed before requesting a quote?
No. Identify the unknowns and request a provisional quotation with explicit assumptions. A final production price requires the approved material, construction and quantity breakdown.
Review OEM production from your design and send your current file through the project enquiry, including a list of decisions that still need development.