The Sample Development Process in the Clothing Industry: Steps and Best Practices

The Sample Development Process in the Clothing Industry: Steps and Best Practices

Reeha Ismail Sayyad
Asst. Editor
Textile Merchandising
Assistant Professor
CNCVCW SIBER,
Kolhapur, India.
E-mail: afsana.sayyad@gmail.com

Garment Sampling:

The sample is a product that represents a group of products or lot. The sample will reflect the quality and workmanship of the exporter or manufacturer. Garment samples are inevitably an important part of exporting. The sampling of garments is given great emphasis. Samples of garments can either make or break the further procedure of getting orders from buyers. Sampling plays a vital role in getting orders from the buyers. Samples are developed and tested before starting the bulk production.

The Purpose of Sampling:

The purpose of sampling is not only to get bulk orders, but it gives some additional benefits to the exporter. Through the sampling process exporter can estimate the yarn consumption for developing the fabric and a clear idea of time and the entire manufacturing cost.

Here are given few purposes in the scene of garments sampling-

1. To let the buyer know the potential of an exporter.
2. To allow the buyer to judge the production capability of the exporter.
3. To let the exporter estimate the fabric and thread consumption and manufacturing cost of an entire order.
4. To provide a means of making revisions in mass production.

The Importance of Sampling in the Clothing Industry:

Samples are made to get the desired outputs based on the details and information specified by the buyer. A merchandiser who works closely with the sampling department to source raw materials and processes for developing a good quality product for an affordable price. There are many people who are involved directly and indirectly in the process of sampling. Designers, buyers, individuals engaged in sourcing raw material, quality control personnel and the casting department at different levels work closely on the sampling of a garment. It helps in optimizing the process parameter for mass production and can also aid in eliminating bottlenecks. Samples are made at different stages to make sure that all parameters are maintained properly. A good garment sample will make a good impression to get the order confirmation from the buyer.

Different Stages of the Sampling Process:

Sampling is a multi-stage process of product development whereby we assist the buyer or client in identifying the most efficient means of production while retaining the essential stylistic integrity and maximizing the functional value of the garment. The samples decide the ability of an exporter to deliver the desired style, fit, design and best quality in a particular order. The process of sampling varies from context to context.

Sampling Process in the Clothing Industry:

The sampling process starts with pattern creation by a pattern maker. The pattern will be based on block, a sketch, a photo, a garment or a description given by the buyer. After the pattern has been drawn and cut out, a sample worker will sew up that sample into available fabric or specified fabric by the buyer in order to verify the fit and shape are correct. It will get stitched and finished as what the buyer has demanded.

Flow Chart of Sampling Process:

The basic sampling process as flow chart is given below-

Pattern making

↓

Cutting and making

 ↓

First sample approval

 ↓

Production sample

 ↓

Final approval

↓

Grading

↓

Production

When the buyer will give approval then it’s time to create the first sample in its final fabric and complete with trims. It contains the details of both, what the buyer has demanded and what exporter have used like ref no. color, fabric composition details, description, quantity, and size no.