Sample round one should end arguments, not start them. Print this checklist and work through it before the first proto leaves the pattern room.
Spec lock
1. Size chart signed — every measurement with tolerance (body length ±1 cm, chest ±1.5 cm is normal knitwear territory). 2. Weight tolerance — GSM range per fabric, confirmed against a swatch, not a datasheet. 3. Colour standard — Pantone TPX for solids; for heathers, a physical lab-dip reference.
Construction sheet
4. Bill of materials — fabric, rib, drawcord, eyelet, label thread, each with supplier and unit cost. Hidden BOM items are where quotes grow later. 5. Seam & stitch spec — twin-needle sides, tape on shoulder, SPI minimum.
Process gates
6. Logo proof before bulk fabric — position measured from HPS (high point shoulder) on the proto, approved in writing. 7. Wash test protocol — sample washed at the end-user temperature before fit approval; shrinkage and colour-fastness judged after, never before. 8. Pack spec — fold, poly bag warning text, carton count, gross weight target.
Commercial
9. Payment gate on inspection standard — define AQL (2.5 major is the garment norm) and who pays rework. 10. Lead-time buffer — your launch date minus 3 weeks = the factory promise date; anything tighter is a rush fee wearing a disguise.
Round one samples cost money; a complete checklist makes round one also cost less, because it removes the third sample run. Ready to start with a spec that is actually complete? Send it here.
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