What Documents Do You Need to Start Clothing Production?

Starting a custom clothing order without the proper documents is like building a house with no blueprint. Whether you’re creating T-shirts, hoodies, or dresses, the quality and accuracy of your production depend on the documents you provide.

Let’s walk through the must-have documents to start production with confidence and avoid costly miscommunication.

1️⃣ Tech Pack (Technical Specification Sheet)

A tech pack is the most important document in apparel manufacturing. It tells your factory exactly what to make.

What should it include?

Flat sketches (front/back)
Fabric & material details
Stitching & construction notes
Artwork/printing/embroidery placement
Colourways
Label and packaging instructions

Why it matters: Without a detailed tech pack, factories will make assumptions, which often leads to errors and remakes.

2️⃣ Size Chart

A clear size chart ensures your garments are made to your brand’s specifications, not just standard sizing.

What to include:

Measurements for each size (e.g., S, M, L, XL)
Tolerances (acceptable +/- range)
Fit description (slim, relaxed, oversized)

Tip: Avoid using only US/EU sizing labels. Always attach a full measurement chart in centimeters or inches.

3️⃣ Fabric & Trim Information Sheet

Factories need to know exactly which materials to use. Include:

Fabric name (e.g., 100% cotton jersey)
GSM (fabric weight)
Color code or Pantone reference
Stretch/finish/coating info
Trim list (zippers, buttons, cords, etc.)

If using in-stock factory fabrics, simply request their color card and choose.

4️⃣ Purchase Order (PO)

A purchase order is your formal confirmation that you want to start production.

It should include:

Order quantity by size
Style and colour codes
Unit price & total cost
Delivery terms (FOB, EXW, CIF)
Shipping address & method
Expected delivery date
Payment terms (deposit, balance)

Most manufacturers, including Mingxing Clothing, won’t start production until a PO and a deposit are received.

5️⃣ Artwork Files & Print Positioning

If your clothing includes printing or embroidery, provide:

High-resolution artwork (vector, AI / EPS / PDF preferred)
Colour breakdown (Pantone codes)
Placement guide (with distances from seams or neck)
Embroidery stitch count, if available

This helps us digitise and proofread the design quickly without back-and-forth.

6️⃣ Optional But Useful: Brand Guidelines

Want consistent branding across all your garments? Include:

Logo usage rules
Typography & color rules
Hang tag & packaging designs
Care label info

Even if you’re just starting, these details help establish a professional, cohesive brand image.

✅ Quick Checklist for Clothing Production

Document	Required?	Purpose
Tech Pack	✅ Yes	Design & construction reference
Size Chart	✅ Yes	Measurement & fitting accuracy
Fabric Sheet	✅ Yes	Material sourcing & cost clarity
PO	✅ Yes	Order confirmation & payment
Artwork Files	If applicable	Print/embroidery production
Brand Guide	Optional	Brand consistency

Document	Required?	Purpose
Tech Pack	✅ Yes	Design & construction reference
Size Chart	✅ Yes	Measurement & fitting accuracy
Fabric Sheet	✅ Yes	Material sourcing & cost clarity
PO	✅ Yes	Order confirmation & payment
Artwork Files	If applicable	Print/embroidery production
Brand Guide	Optional	Brand consistency