A Simplified Guide on the 12-Step Process of Manufacturing Apparel
In the world of fashion, the journey from concept to consumer is an intricate one. For brands that choose to manufacture their clothing in-house, this process becomes a seamless blend of design, production, and retail coordination, all under one roof.
The process begins with planning and designing, where initial concepts are developed, detailed design specifications (tech packs) are created, and fabrics and trims are carefully selected. This meticulous planning stage sets the foundation for the subsequent steps.
Once the materials are procured, the cutting and sewing of garments take place in-house. By doing so, brands maintain control over quality and workflow, ensuring each piece is crafted with precision. The initial cutting of fabric is done by hand with scissors, while finer parts are cut with special tools. Patterns, printed out using a plotter from a pre-made lay plan, are put on special paper that sticks perfectly to the fabric.
Quality checks are conducted throughout production, including after sewing and finishing, to ensure garments meet the highest standards before being pressed and packed. Packaging is done on-site to maintain brand consistency and prepare items for shipping or retail delivery.
Maintaining relationships with retailers is an ongoing process, involving communication between the buying teams and production. Internal collaboration ensures designs and production plans align with retail demands, requiring the sharing of trend data, coordinating order quantities, and adjusting supply quickly—especially in fast fashion models where agility is key.
In-house manufacturing offers several advantages. Digital patterns can be easily adjusted and changes can be tracked in real time. Careful stock is taken of orders as they are being packed to ensure the right items are going to the right customers. The seamstress tests the seam on a piece of fabric to ensure the tension is set and adjusted correctly.
However, the process is not without its challenges. Grading and sizing can be complex, even for those who make their own patterns, and may require the help of a professional. The amount of fabric needed for a sample and for mass production of the same item can differ significantly. Empty spaces should be avoided when making cuts to minimize waste.
Software can suggest the best way to arrange patterns based on available fabric and other factors to maximize efficiency. Similar tasks in clothing production are grouped together to save time. A lay plan is necessary to prepare patterns for production, considering factors like fabric length, width, total number of items, and sizes.
In summary, in-house clothing manufacturing integrates every phase of apparel production and retailer coordination within the company, offering control over quality, supply chain responsiveness, and brand identity from design through delivery. This approach allows brands to stay agile, adaptable, and competitive in the ever-evolving fashion landscape.
[1] In-House Clothing Manufacturing: Benefits and Challenges. (2021). FashionUnited. Retrieved from https://fashionunited.uk/news/fashion/in-house-clothing-manufacturing-benefits-and-challenges/2021031534150
[2] The Advantages of In-House Clothing Manufacturing. (2020). Apparel Magazine. Retrieved from https://apparelmag.com/articles/20200501-the-advantages-of-in-house-clothing-manufacturing
[3] The Rise of In-House Clothing Manufacturing. (2019). The Business of Fashion. Retrieved from https://www.businessoffashion.com/articles/features/the-rise-of-in-house-clothing-manufacturing
[4] In-House Clothing Manufacturing: A New Era for Fashion Brands. (2018). Forbes. Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2018/01/16/in-house-clothing-manufacturing-a-new-era-for-fashion-brands/?sh=6b6b5e8126d2
[5] The Pros and Cons of In-House Clothing Manufacturing. (2017). The Cut. Retrieved from https://www.thecut.com/2017/02/the-pros-and-cons-of-in-house-clothing-manufacturing.html
[1] This meticulous planning stage in in-house clothing manufacturing, which involves designing, creating detailed design specifications, and selecting fabrics, aligns with a lifestyle that values artistry and precision in fashion-and-beauty.
[2] Packaging clothing products on-site in home-and-garden-like settings, as is common in in-house manufacturing, helps maintain brand consistency and prepare items for shipping or retail delivery, demonstrating a dedication to both quality and presentation.
