Tech Packs 101: What Manufacturers Actually Need From You
A tech pack is the blueprint that turns your idea into a garment. A good one removes guesswork, gets you an accurate quote, and makes the first sample land close to right. Here is what belongs in it — and what to do if you do not have one.
What a tech pack is
A tech pack is a specification document that tells the factory exactly what to make. It bundles the technical details — measurements, materials, construction, and branding — so nothing is left to interpretation.
What to include
- A technical sketch or reference garment (front and back)
- Fabric: fibre content, GSM, and any wash or finish
- Measurements / points of measure for each size (a size chart)
- Colours with Pantone (TCX) references
- Construction details: stitch types, seams, hems, ribbing
- Trims and hardware: labels, drawcords, zips, buttons
- Branding: neck labels, hang tags, printing/embroidery placement and size
- Packaging requirements: polybag, folding, barcoding
Why it matters for pricing
Every detail in a tech pack is a cost input. Without it, a factory has to assume — and quotes built on assumptions are either padded for safety or wrong. A clear spec gets you an itemised, accurate quote and a sample that matches your intent the first time.
Don't have a tech pack? Start anyway
Most first-time founders do not have one, and that is fine. Send a sketch, a reference product you want to improve on, or even a clear description with target price and quantity. Our development team builds the tech pack for you — recommending fabrics for your budget and engineering the fit — and you approve everything before production.
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