If you've ever tried to describe your garment idea to a manufacturer over email — and ended up with something completely different — you already understand why tech packs exist. A tech pack is the most important document in the production process. Getting it right is the difference between a smooth first sample and an expensive, time-consuming mistake.
What is a Tech Pack?
A tech pack (short for technical package) is a detailed document that communicates every specification of your garment to the manufacturer. Think of it as the blueprint for your product — it tells the factory exactly how to build it, with nothing left to interpretation.
Without a tech pack, manufacturers are guessing. With a complete, well-written tech pack, they have everything needed to produce an accurate sample on the first attempt.
Why Do Manufacturers Need It?
Factories work with dozens of brands simultaneously. They can't rely on verbal descriptions, mood boards, or "make it look like this photo." Every decision — how wide is the cuff? what stitch type finishes the hem? how thick is the drawcord? — needs to be documented in writing.
A tech pack protects both parties. It gives the manufacturer clear instructions and gives you a reference point to compare the sample against. If something is wrong, you can point directly to the spec.
What Should a Tech Pack Include?
1. Flat Sketches (Technical Drawings)
Technical flat sketches of your garment — front, back, and detail views. These are clean line-art illustrations showing the garment laid flat, clearly showing all seams, pockets, zippers, panels, and design details. These are not fashion illustrations — they are engineering drawings for a production team.
2. Measurements and Size Chart
A detailed measurement chart for every size you're producing. Measurements should cover all critical points of measure (POM): chest, body length, sleeve length, shoulder width, hem circumference, cuff width, and more. Always specify the garment measurement, not the body measurement, and label every point clearly.
3. Fabric Specifications
Specify your exact fabric:
- Fibre composition (e.g. 80% cotton, 20% polyester)
- GSM — the weight and density of the fabric
- Construction type (French terry, fleece, single jersey, twill)
- Colour reference using Pantone codes, never colour names
- Any finish or treatment (garment dye, enzyme wash, brushed interior)
4. Construction Details
How is the garment assembled? Stitch types, seam finishes, panel joins, and specific construction methods should all be specified — flatlock seams, overlock finishing, chain stitch, taped seams, reinforced stress points, and so on.
5. Trims and Hardware
Everything attached to the garment that isn't the main fabric: zippers (brand, size, tooth type), buttons, drawcords, grommets, toggles, and any other hardware. Be specific about material (metal vs plastic) and finish (antique brass, gunmetal, nickel).
6. Print and Embroidery Artwork
All artwork should be submitted as vector files (AI or EPS format) with colours called out in Pantone codes. Specify exact placement with measurements: "chest embroidery centred, 9cm wide, 7cm below collar seam."
7. Colourways
List every colourway for this style. For each, specify fabric colour, thread colours, hardware finish, and label colours — all in Pantone codes. Never rely on a monitor screenshot or printed photo for colour reference.
8. Labels and Packaging
Specify all labelling: neck label type (woven, printed, or tagless heat transfer), care label content, size label, and any additional patches or badges. Include artwork files and precise placement instructions for each.
Tools to Create a Tech Pack
- Adobe Illustrator — industry standard. Full control, steep learning curve.
- Canva or Google Slides — works for very simple garments; not ideal for complex constructions.
- Techpacker — dedicated software with templates and factory collaboration tools. A solid mid-range option.
- Fashion freelancers — hiring a technical designer to build your tech pack is often the most cost-effective route for first-time founders. Typical cost: £150–£500 per style.
How Detailed Does It Need to Be?
The more complete the better — but accuracy matters more than length. A tech pack with errors is worse than a simple brief. Focus on getting the critical specs right: measurements, fabric, construction, and artwork placement. Your manufacturer will ask clarifying questions — that's normal and healthy, and it means they're paying attention.
If you're unsure where to start, talk to your manufacturer before you begin building the tech pack. They'll tell you exactly what they need for your specific garment type.