Manufacturing: stage 03 of 9
Sampling is where the specification is proven. Rounds that close specific written points converge; rounds that restart the conversation do not. Each sample AHM produces is made against a comment sheet, so approval moves forward instead of circling.
Process
- 01
A proto sample proves the construction and the general idea.
- 02
A fit sample confirms measurements against the approved chart, by size.
- 03
A size set proves the grading across the range.
- 04
A pre-production sample confirms bulk fabric, trims and decoration before the line starts.
- 05
A shipment sample records what was actually produced.
What you supply
- Written comments against each sample round
- Measurement feedback with the points you want changed
- Approval of the sealed sample before bulk
What you receive
- Proto, fit, size set and pre-production samples
- Comment sheets
- Sealed reference sample
Risk
Every stage has a characteristic failure. Naming it is more useful than claiming it never happens.
Comments are given verbally, so the next sample addresses a different interpretation.
Every round is produced against a written comment sheet that both sides hold.
The pre-production sample is skipped to save time, and a bulk material problem is found in the carton.
The PP sample uses bulk fabric and trims specifically so material problems surface before the line runs, not after.
Buyer questions
It depends on how resolved the specification is. A complete tech pack often reaches approval in fewer rounds than a sketch, because fewer questions are being answered by sample rather than on paper.
Sample timing depends on the article, whether the fabric is in stock or has to be developed, and the decoration involved. We confirm timing against your specification rather than quote a standard figure.
The approved reference both sides work to. Once sealed, it is what bulk production is measured against and what inspection compares finished garments to.
Send a specification and we will come back on construction, materials and commercial FOB costing against it.
Other manufacturing stages
Other manufacturing stages
Product Development
Development turns a reference garment, a sketch or a tech pack into a manufacturing specification the factory floor and your QA can both read the same way.
Fabric Sourcing
Fabric is usually the largest single line in an apparel cost and the hardest thing to change once a program is running.
Cut & Sew
Cutting decides fabric consumption, which decides a large part of the FOB price.