Understanding the Different Types of Samples in a Garment Factory
When it comes to manufacturing clothes, understanding the types of samples used in a garment factory is crucial. These samples serve as essential tools for designers, manufacturers, and brands to ensure that the final product meets their quality and design standards. This article will explore the various types of garment samples and their roles in the production process.
Types of Garment Samples
Mock-Up
The mock-up is the first interpretation of a designer’s idea. Sometimes, a concept may not translate well on paper, and a mock-up is used to help visualize how the garment will look and fit. This sample does not need to be trimmed and is primarily used to check if the garment is wearable. Not every design requires a mock-up, and it is not a necessity for every designer or manufacturer.
Proto or Development Sample
The proto or development sample is a crucial step in the manufacturing process. It serves as a reference for the entire production line and may be based on an original sketch or designer's tech kit. The goal is to focus on the style and design aesthetics rather than exact specifications.
Three prototype samples are usually made: two for the brand/designer’s reference and one for the factory’s reference. The factory can then use these samples to ensure consistency in the final product.
Digital Garment Sample
A digital garment sample is a 3D software model of the garment that can be visualized in both stillness and motion. This technology allows designers to see the fit and fall of the garment and can drastically reduce the cost of sample production and save time for designers and factories to approve designs.
Despite its benefits, the technology has some limitations. It requires a significant period of adjustment and investment. However, if firms can overcome these challenges, digital samples may revolutionize the garment industry.
Fit Sample
A fit sample is a sample made to ensure the proper fit and fall of the clothing. It is made in accordance with the sizing required by the brand. The construction and measurements must be accurate, and numerous alterations may be required to achieve the correct fit. It is crucial to include sample size specifications in the tech pack at this stage.
Size Set Sample
Following the approval of the fit sample, a brand must prepare base patterns for each size. Then, they can create three samples for each size, using the fabric and finishings specified for the final product. These samples are for the entire size range and must be approved before bulk production can commence. Tech packs should include the exact specifications for the complete size range.
Salesman Sample (SMS)
Salesman samples, or SMS, are used for marketing and promotion. They are created in the final fabrics and with the finishing touches, making them similar to the final product. These samples are typically displayed in retail stores or at trade exhibitions to generate orders from specific retail channels.
GPT Sample (Garment Performance Test Sample)
A GPT sample is a production sample delivered for performance tests. These samples undergo a set of tests to ensure quality before mass production, such as seam strength, seam slippage, colorfastness, and wash fastness.
Pre-production Sample (PP Sample)
A pre-production sample is the first sample produced on the factory's real production line. It is made using real fabrics and is finished according to the order's measurements and embroidery requirements. It is a factory test, and mass production can only begin once authorization is given by the brand.
Sealed Sample
Once the pre-production sample is approved, the sample is sealed to prevent factory tampering. It becomes the standard for bulk manufacturing. Depending on the brand's approval or rejection, it is known as a gold-seal or red-seal sample.
TOP (Top of Production) Sample
After the pre-production sample is approved, a brand's quality control inspector can visit the company at any time to inspect a garment from the production line. These samples are known as "top of production or TOP samples" and are examined to ensure that bulk production meets the pre-production sample's quality. The packing of TOP samples is also inspected.
Shipment Sample
Once the bulk manufacturing is complete, the factory sets aside a few samples as shipment samples. These samples are tested to ensure the final product is ready for shipping, from folding to packaging. Many brands will only allow samples to be shipped if they pass this test.
Press Samples
Press samples are exact copies of the finished tradable product and are usually in the same size as the sample. They are used for photographing promotional materials such as advertising campaigns, look books, and e-commerce. They can also be used by publications for editorial photo shoots.
Conclusion
Understanding the different types of garment samples is essential for successful garment production. With the right samples, designers, manufacturers, and brands can ensure that the final product meets their quality and design standards. The service offered by the Beautiful Connection group can simplify the process, providing customized clothing and maintaining everything about garment sampling for business owners.
By following the steps and understanding the various types of samples, you can streamline your production process and ensure quality control. The right garment samples can save time, reduce costs, and ensure that your brand's vision is realized in the final product.