From Vision to Reality: Submitting Your Apparel Designs to Manufacturers

Turning clothing designs into reality is an exciting journey, but it can feel overwhelming—especially if you’re doing it for the first time.

You’ve got a vision in your head (maybe even sketched out), and now it’s time to bring it to life. But how exactly do you submit your designs to a manufacturer?

Whether you’re launching a streetwear line, a high-end fashion brand, or branded uniforms for your business, the design submission process doesn’t need to be complicated.

This guide walks you through every step so you can approach manufacturers with clarity and confidence.

Understand the Manufacturer’s Requirements

Before sending your designs, do your homework. Manufacturers require detailed specifications to interpret and produce your garments accurately.

Prepare the following:

• Tech pack or detailed design documents
• Material and fabric details
• Logo/artwork files (for custom branding)
• Order quantity (MOQ)
• Delivery timeline

Clear input prevents miscommunication and delays.

Create a Professional Tech Pack

What is a tech pack, and why does it matter?

If one document can make or break your production, it’s the tech pack.

Think of it as your design’s blueprint. It communicates every detail to the factory: how the garment should look, fit, and feel. This is what helps the production team create samples that truly reflect your vision.

A standard tech pack includes:

• Flat sketches (front + back views)
• Size chart and measurements
• Fabric types + color references
• Trims and accessories (zippers, buttons, etc.)
• Stitching and finishing instructions
• Brand label + packaging specs

No tech pack yet?

Don’t worry. Many manufacturers (including us) can help turn your ideas, reference photos, or even hand-drawn sketches into a complete tech pack.

Provide Detailed Fabric & Material Specs

Fabric choice impacts not only the garment’s aesthetics but also its fit, weight, drape, comfort, and cost.

If you know your fabric:

• Provide physical swatches (if available)
• Include the fabric name/composition (e.g., “100% cotton jersey,” “rib knit”)
• Specify GSM (fabric weight)
• Add color references (Pantone codes or physical samples)

Unsure? A good manufacturer can recommend suitable fabrics based on your style, budget, and target audience.

Supply Artwork & Branding Files

If your design includes logos, prints, embroidery, or custom labels, send your artwork files in the correct formats:

Preferred file types:

• Clothing sketches：PDF
• Vector files： AI
• High-resolution ： PSD or PNG (with transparent background)

Include placement, sizing, and color instructions for each graphic element. Also, share requirements for care labels, hangtags, or woven labels if applicable.

How to Submit Your Design？

Know Your Manufacturing Partner

Before sending anything, clarify your manufacturer’s capabilities:

OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturing): They bring custom designs to life from scratch.

ODM (Original Design Manufacturing): You select from existing styles and customize fabrics/colors/branding.

Other Key Questions:

1. MOQ: Ask about flexible minimums for startups.
2. Customization: Can they adjust fabrics, prints, labels, or packaging?
3. Specialties: Do they specialize in streetwear, dresses, activewear, etc.?
4. Certifications: Certified factories are often more reliable.(e.g. SEDEX, ISO9001,WCA,GSCI)
5. Timeline: Agree on deadlines to avoid missing sales windows.
6. Communication: Ensure they offer fluent communication and proactive advice.

Submission Methods:

Email: Attach files or share links (Google Drive, Dropbox, WeTransfer).

Online Forms: Many factories have dedicated submission forms on their websites.

Sourcing Agents: If using a middleman, they’ll handle communication.

Pro Tip:
Include a brief intro about your brand, vision, and goals to build rapport.

What Happens After Submission?

Once you submit:

1. Review: The factory checks your files and may ask questions or suggest adjustments.
2. Sampling: Prototypes are made. Test fit, quality, and details.
3. Production: After sample approval, bulk production begins.

The entire process (submission → delivery) typically takes 20–40 business days, depending on complexity.

Summarize

Submitting apparel designs to a manufacturer is straightforward with the right preparation—even for beginners.

The key is clear communication and a shared goal: turning your creative vision into a quality product.

At our factory, we’ve partnered with hundreds of brands (big and small) to bring ideas to life. Whether you have a full tech pack or a napkin sketch, we’ll guide you through every step.

Ready to create?

Reach out for a complimentary consultation. Let’s make something great together.