How to Prepare a Tech Pack for Clothing Production
Learn to create professional tech packs. Complete guide to clearly communicating your vision to manufacturers, reducing production errors and getting samples right the first time.
What is a Tech Pack?
A tech pack (technical package) is a comprehensive document containing all information manufacturers need to produce your garment to your specifications. It includes design, measurements, materials, colors, construction details and any special instructions.
Think of a good tech pack as a "blueprint" for your garment. Just as an architect can't build a house without plans, a manufacturer can't produce your garment without a proper tech pack. It's the bridge translating your design vision into production reality.
Essential Tech Pack Components
1Technical Flats (Technical Drawings)
Scaled, two-dimensional drawings showing all details of your garment. Front and back views, sometimes side and interior details.
Tip: Use Adobe Illustrator, CorelDRAW or specialized fashion software (CLO, Browzwear). Hand sketches are not professional.
2Measurement Chart (Spec Sheet)
Complete measurement chart detailing every measurement for each size. Specify tolerance ranges (e.g., ±0.5 cm).
| Point of Measure | S | M | L | XL |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chest Width | 52 | 54 | 56 | 58 |
| Body Length | 71 | 73 | 75 | 77 |
| Sleeve Length | 61 | 62 | 63 | 64 |
3Fabric Specifications
Detailed fabric information including type, composition, weight, finish and supplier if applicable.
- Fabric Type: Single Jersey, French Terry, Fleece, Denim, etc.
- Composition: 100% Cotton, 95% Cotton/5% Elastane, etc.
- Weight: 180 GSM, 280 GSM, 12 oz, etc.
- Color: Pantone code or physical swatch attached
- Finish: Pre-shrunk, enzyme washed, brushed interior, etc.
4Colorways and Fabric Swatches
Specify all color options with Pantone codes or physical swatches. Include fabric swatches for reference.
Important: Screen colors vary. Always provide Pantone codes for accuracy.
5Trim and Accessories Details
Comprehensive list of all non-fabric components:
- Zippers: Length, color, type (metal, coil, invisible)
- Buttons: Size, material, color, attachment method
- Labels: Main label, care label, size label with artwork files
- Thread: Color matching each fabric panel
- Elastic/Drawcords: Width, color, composition
- Packaging: Poly bags, hang tags, tissue paper
6Construction Details
Explain how the garment should be constructed:
- Stitch Types: Single needle, double needle, cover stitch, etc.
- Seam Finishes: Overlock, flat-fell, bound, etc.
- Special Techniques: Pocket construction, collar attachment, hem finish
- Topstitching: Location, stitch count per inch
7Graphics and Embellishments
Detailed specifications for printing and embroidery:
- Print Method: Screen print, DTG, heat transfer, sublimation
- Print Location: Chest, back, sleeve with exact placement
- Print Size: Width × height in cm or inches
- Colors: Number of colors, Pantone codes
- Artwork Files: Vector files (AI, EPS, PDF) at high resolution
- Embroidery: Stitch count, thread colors, digitized file
8Size Chart and Grading
Specify how measurements should change between sizes. Typical grading increments are 2-3 cm for width measurements and 2-2.5 cm for length measurements.
10 Common Tech Pack Mistakes to Avoid
1. Incomplete Measurements: Missing measurements like sleeve length, shoulder width or hem opening lead to fit issues.
2. Unclear Technical Drawings: Blurry images, hand sketches or incomplete views create confusion.
3. No Tolerance Ranges: Failing to specify acceptable measurement variations (±0.5 cm).
4. Vague Fabric Descriptions: "Cotton fabric" isn't specific enough. Include GSM, composition, finish.
5. Missing Color Codes: "Dark blue" means different things to different people. Always use Pantone codes.
6. Low-Resolution Artwork: Print and embroidery files must be high resolution (300 DPI minimum).
7. Forgetting Internal Details: Pocketing, lining, internal construction needs documentation too.
8. No Reference Garment: If possible, include a physical sample garment for manufacturer reference.
9. Ignoring Label Placement: Specify exact placement for care labels, size labels and brand labels.
10. Unclear Packaging Instructions: Don't assume standard packaging. Specify folding, bagging, hang tags.
Tech Pack Creation Tools
Adobe Illustrator
Industry standard for technical flats. Steep learning curve but produces professional results.
Cost: €24/month subscription
CLO / Browzwear
3D fashion design software. Create virtual samples and export tech packs.
Cost: €50-100/month
Tech Pack Templates
Pre-made templates in Excel/PDF format. Good for beginners.
Cost: Free - €50
Tech Pack Checklist
Before sending your tech pack to a manufacturer, verify you have: