How Pre-Production Approvals Work Inside Indian Garment Units

Pre-Production Sampling Process Overview

In all the Indian garment units where ready-made garments are made, the pre-production sampling process stands as a checkpoint system. The value of this checkpoint system is in its ability to align the clothing brand owners' expectations with the factory’s execution capabilities. 

Key things involved in the pre-production sampling process at custom clothing manufacturers include: detecting if there are any production issues and fixing them, checking to validate garment construction and fit, ensuring that all aspects like the fabric, trim, and embellishments of the garment are correct, and overall avoiding any costly mistakes during the bulk production. For this sampling process, the two major samples that are used are known as Fit Samples and PP Samples, which we’ll be discussing in the following section.

Fit Sample 

Fit samples are generally used for testing the garment’s construction and sizing.

What is a Fit Sample?

The fit sample is created at garment manufacturers during the pre-production process to evaluate a garment’s size, fit, pattern, and overall silhouette. The fit samples can be made with the same fabric that is going to be used for the final bulk production or it could also be made with a similar fabric. The only criterion here is to check if the garment’s overall size and fit are all right, and the other factors, like trims and finishing, are not checked here. 

After the development samples have been approved by the clothing brand owner, the fit samples are usually prepared. These fit samples are made before PP samples and also before the fabric and trims are ordered in bulk. 

Approval of the fit sample is a significant step in the garment manufacturing process, as a minor issue in the measurement or pattern can influence how a garment looks and feels. Especially if you own a fashion or an activewear brand, the fit sample approval time in the pre-production phase becomes crucial.

Who approves the fit sample?

The fit sample is approved by the technical team of the clothing brand that is buying. Sometimes, external third-party fit technicians might also be informed, and the feedback is shared on a fit comment sheet or a tech pack.

Common issues that are often found include poor neckline and sleeve construction, incorrect garment length, tight armholes, ill-fitting chest area, and incorrect grading across sizes. 

After the feedback is received, the sample is revised, and if not entirely corrected, another fit sample may be requested, called the refit sample, before moving on to the next stage of approval, which is the PP sample.

PP Sample

PP sample, also known as a pre-production sample, is the final step before go ahead from a client for their manufacturing requirements.

What is a PP sample?

The PP sample is made by manufacturers as a final step before the bulk production begins for a garment. This sample is submitted to the client for their final approval. It is generally made using raw materials that are as close to the bulk production materials as possible. The final trims, bulk fabric, and approved washing and finishing process are used for the manufacturing of a PP sample.

This sample is made when the fit of the garment has been confirmed to be perfect by the clients. Once the PP model is submitted and approved, the garment manufacturers can begin cutting and sewing the bulk order. The PP model is tested on various factors ranging from stitching quality, colour matching, lace placements, accessory accuracy, embroidery or print accuracy, as well as the packaging of each garment.

Who approves it?

The buyer or buying agent approves the PP sample, and then it’s a green signal to begin bulk production as per order requirements. 

What happens after approval?

Once the PP samples are approved, the manufacturers begin the bulk production of garments, starting with cutting fabric and sewing individual pieces together. The PP sample is also kept on the production floor as a reference at all times.

Conclusion

This is how private label apparel and even white label clothing manufacturers function in India. If you want to learn more about the Indian garment manufacturing industry or you’re looking for a trustworthy manufacturer to handle your manufacturing requirements, check out CheerSagar. CheerSagar specialize in both white label and private-label manufacturing with decades of experience in garment exports. Check out their website to learn more about their services.