A tech pack (short for technical package) is the blueprint a factory uses to make your garment. It collects everything about a style in one document: what it looks like, what it is made of, how it is constructed and how it is measured in every size.
A clear tech pack is the difference between a sample that looks like your idea on the first try and three rounds of expensive guesswork.
Why tech packs matter
- Accurate quotes: manufacturers can only price what they understand.
- Fewer sample rounds: clear specs mean fewer corrections.
- Consistent reorders: every production run follows the same approved spec.
- Protection: it records exactly what you agreed, which helps resolve disputes.
The 9 sections every tech pack should include
1. Cover page
Style name, style number, season, date, version number and your brand details. Update the version every time something changes.
2. Flat sketches
Front and back technical drawings (not fashion illustrations) showing seams, stitching, pockets, closures and proportions. Add close-ups for complex details like collars or cuffs.
3. Bill of materials (BOM)
Every component with its specification: main fabric (composition and weight), rib, lining, thread, zippers, buttons, drawcords, elastic, labels and packaging. If you are unsure which fabric to use, our fabric selection team can recommend options for your price point.
4. Measurement chart (spec sheet)
Points of measure (chest, body length, sleeve length, shoulder, hem and so on) for every size, with tolerances. This section causes most fit problems when it is missing. Our size chart guide explains how to build one.
5. Construction details
Seam types, stitch types, stitches per inch, hem finishes and any special techniques. Callouts on the flat sketch work well here.
6. Colourways
Each colour combination of the style, with colour references for fabric, trims and thread.
7. Artwork and placement
Print or embroidery artwork, size in inches or centimetres, exact position (for example “3 in below collar seam, centred”) and decoration method. See our artwork preparation guide for file requirements.
8. Labels and trims placement
Where the neck label, care label, size label and hang tag go and how they are attached. Our labels and hang tags page shows the options.
9. Packaging instructions
Folding method, polybag type, stickers, barcodes and carton packing. Details like this matter for e-commerce fulfilment and retail. See custom packaging.
Tech pack checklist
| Section | Must include |
|---|---|
| Flats | Front, back and detail views |
| BOM | Fabric composition and weight, all trims |
| Measurements | All sizes with tolerances |
| Construction | Seams, stitches, finishes |
| Artwork | Files, sizes, positions, method |
| Labels | Type and placement |
| Packaging | Fold, bag, carton instructions |
Common tech pack mistakes
- Using fashion illustrations instead of flat sketches. They look nice but hide construction details.
- Measurements for one size only. Factories need the full size range.
- Vague fabric descriptions like “soft cotton” instead of composition and weight.
- No version control, so nobody knows which file is current.
- Missing artwork sizes, leading to prints that are too big or small.
How to make a tech pack without design experience
You can start with what you have: reference photos, a garment you like, rough sketches and notes on what to change. A manufacturer with a development team can turn that into a production-ready tech pack. At MAKEWELL APPAREL, our tech pack and sampling service does exactly this, then builds a physical sample in 7 to 10 business days so you can check the result.
Once your tech pack is ready, the next step is sampling. Read how the garment sampling process works.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a tech pack to start manufacturing clothing?
For original or modified garments, yes. A tech pack gives the manufacturer precise instructions, which leads to accurate quotes, fewer sample rounds and consistent production. Simple decorated blanks need less detail, but artwork placement and sizes should still be documented.
Can a manufacturer make my tech pack for me?
Many can. MAKEWELL APPAREL builds tech packs from sketches, reference photos or an existing garment as part of its tech pack and sampling service.
What software is used to make tech packs?
Designers commonly use vector illustration software for flat sketches and spreadsheets or dedicated tech pack tools for specifications. What matters most is clarity: accurate measurements, materials and construction notes.
How detailed should a tech pack be?
Detailed enough that someone who has never spoken to you could make the garment correctly. Include measurements for every size, materials, trims, stitching, artwork placement and labelling instructions.
Only have a sketch?
Send it with a few reference photos. We will turn it into a production-ready tech pack and quote your sample within 24 hours.
Start My Tech Pack