How to Avoid Common Mistakes in Your Fashion Tech Pack

A fashion tech pack is one of the most important tools in the garment production process. It acts as the bridge between your design ideas and the manufacturer who will bring your creations to life. However, creating a well-organized and accurate tech pack can be tricky, and small mistakes can result in costly errors, delays, or miscommunications. These mistakes can affect the quality of the final product and increase production costs.

In this article, we’ll discuss common mistakes in fashion tech packs and how you can avoid them to ensure smooth production, accurate results, and a successful partnership with your manufacturer.

1. Lack of Detailed Specifications

Mistake: One of the most common mistakes is not including enough detailed specifications in your tech pack. Ambiguous or incomplete information can lead to confusion and manufacturing errors.

How to Avoid It:

  • Be Specific: Provide detailed and clear information for every aspect of the garment. For example, instead of writing “soft fabric,” specify the fabric type (e.g., 100% cotton, 180 GSM), and include material finishes.
  • Include Exact Measurements: Always include precise measurements for every size in the size chart, along with any garment-specific measurements (e.g., inseam, chest width, length).
  • Clear Construction Instructions: Specify stitching type, seam finishes, and details like button placement, trims, and labels. For example, use terms like “double-needle stitching” or “1.5 cm seam allowance.”
  • Visual References: Attach flat sketches or technical drawings that clearly illustrate the garment’s design and construction. Include front, back, and side views, along with close-ups of details.

2. Skipping Fit Samples and Testing

Mistake: Failing to provide or approve fit samples can lead to poor fit or construction issues that may not be discovered until the final production run, resulting in rework, delays, and additional costs.

How to Avoid It:

  • Test the Fit Early: Always request a sample from the manufacturer after they receive the tech pack. Review the fit on a model or mannequin and provide feedback if needed.
  • Include Fit Instructions: Be very clear about the intended fit of the garment (e.g., slim fit, loose fit, relaxed). Include detailed information on how the garment should fit the body (e.g., sleeve length, body length, shoulder width).
  • Iterate Based on Fit: Ensure there’s room for revisions after receiving a first sample. The first version may need adjustments to get the fit and look just right.

3. Inconsistent or Missing Materials Information

Mistake: Not specifying materials clearly or providing inconsistent material details is a common mistake. This can lead to manufacturers sourcing incorrect fabrics or trims, which may not be in line with your design vision.

How to Avoid It:

  • Provide a Bill of Materials (BOM): Include a complete and detailed list of materials used for the garment, including fabric type, trims, buttons, zippers, and labels. Specify the material composition (e.g., 100% wool or a cotton/spandex blend) and any certifications (e.g., organic cotton).
  • Include Color Codes: Specify color references using Pantone or color swatches to ensure that the manufacturer uses the correct color. This is particularly important when producing garments in multiple colors.
  • Request Material Swatches: Always ask for material swatches or samples to verify the quality, texture, and color before proceeding with production.

4. Overlooking Sizing and Grading Errors

Mistake: Incorrect or vague sizing and grading instructions are one of the most significant causes of errors during production. Garments that do not fit correctly or that vary significantly between sizes can lead to customer dissatisfaction and returns.

How to Avoid It:

  • Provide a Detailed Size Chart: Include measurements for every size you plan to produce. Ensure all key body measurements are accounted for (e.g., chest, waist, hips, inseam, neck circumference). Be specific about where measurements should be taken.
  • Include Grading Rules: If you’re designing for multiple sizes, ensure the patterns are correctly graded. Include precise grading rules to avoid inconsistencies between sizes.
  • Double-check Fit: After producing a sample, check if the size fits as intended. Use sample garments to verify measurements before you approve full-scale production.

5. Not Updating the Tech Pack

Mistake: Failing to update the tech pack as the design evolves or when adjustments are made can lead to mistakes during production. If the tech pack doesn’t match the final design, manufacturers may follow outdated instructions.

How to Avoid It:

  • Stay Organized: Keep track of changes in your design and promptly update the tech pack to reflect those changes. For example, if you decide to change a fabric or a trim, make sure those updates are clearly marked in the document.
  • Version Control: Keep different versions of the tech pack and clearly indicate which version is the most current. Label revisions clearly and ensure all team members and manufacturers have access to the latest version.
  • Communicate Changes: Whenever you make a change to the design or material, communicate it immediately with the manufacturer and ensure the updated tech pack is shared.

6. Neglecting Production Timelines and Deadlines

Mistake: Not setting clear production timelines or failing to provide realistic deadlines can lead to delays, missed opportunities, and rushed production.

How to Avoid It:

  • Set Realistic Deadlines: Include clear production timelines for each stage of development, including sampling, revisions, bulk production, and shipping.
  • Work Backwards: Start with the final delivery date and work backwards to set realistic milestones for each part of the process. Factor in time for approvals, fabric sourcing, production delays, and unforeseen complications.
  • Buffer Time: Add some buffer time to each stage to account for potential delays, whether from shipping, customs, or production issues.

7. Missing Quality Control Instructions

Mistake: Without clear quality control guidelines, the manufacturer might miss important aspects of the garment’s construction, leading to defects or inconsistencies.

How to Avoid It:

  • Include Quality Control Guidelines: Specify the quality standards you expect, such as stitching precision, fabric defects, or even color consistency. Outline tolerances for measurements, fabric imperfections, and other key aspects of quality.
  • Post-Sample Inspection: After receiving a sample, check it against the tech pack to ensure it meets your quality standards. If anything is off, provide immediate feedback.
  • Pre-production Sample Inspection: Ensure the manufacturer knows the requirements for inspection before bulk production begins. Consider implementing third-party inspections or factory audits if necessary.

8. Not Including Complete Labeling and Packaging Details

Mistake: Failing to include clear labeling and packaging instructions can lead to confusion or inconsistency in how the final product is presented to customers.

How to Avoid It:

  • Label Specifications: Include clear instructions for label placement, including brand labels, care labels, size tags, and other necessary labels.
  • Packaging Instructions: Specify how the garment should be folded, packed, and shipped. Provide details on packaging materials (e.g., poly bags, hangers, boxes) and any required product tags or barcodes.
  • Consistency Across Orders: Make sure these details are included in every production run, ensuring consistency from one order to the next.

9. Not Providing Clear Communication Channels

Mistake: If you don’t establish clear lines of communication with your manufacturer, it can lead to delays or misunderstandings when questions arise during production.

How to Avoid It:

  • Designate a Point of Contact: Ensure there is a specific person from your team who is responsible for communication with the manufacturer.
  • Use Collaborative Platforms: Use shared platforms such as Slack, Trello, or project management software to keep everyone on the same page. Make sure to have regular check-ins with the manufacturer during the production process.
  • Clear Feedback: Provide feedback in a timely and constructive manner. When changes are needed, make them clear and actionable.

Final Thoughts

A fashion tech pack is a detailed, complex document that plays a crucial role in ensuring that your designs are translated accurately and efficiently during production. By avoiding the common mistakes outlined above, you can create a more effective tech pack that minimizes errors, saves time, and helps bring your designs to life as intended. A well-crafted tech pack ensures a smooth collaboration with your manufacturer and a high-quality final product that meets your design vision.