binjaitoto

  • Dongguan City, China / nancy@tosinfashion.com, Whatsapp: +8613826947014

Posts By :

admin

How Can Garment Manufacturers Survive in a Competitive and Tough Economy? 1008 756 admin

How Can Garment Manufacturers Survive in a Competitive and Tough Economy?

In today’s challenging economic climate, garment manufacturers face unprecedented pressures. Rising material costs, supply chain disruptions, labor shortages, and shifting consumer demands have made the industry more competitive than ever. So, how can factories not only survive but thrive amid these difficulties? Here are some practical strategies:

1. Embrace Technology and Automation

Investing in automation doesn’t necessarily mean replacing workers. Instead, use technology to enhance productivity and reduce waste. Automated cutting machines, ERP systems, and even AI-assisted quality control can lower costs, improve accuracy, and speed up production.

2. Diversify Your Client Base

Relying too heavily on one or two big clients can be risky. Explore opportunities in different markets—such as sustainable fashion, uniforms, medical wear, or even niche custom clothing. Smaller local brands and e-commerce startups may also offer more flexible and recurring partnerships.

3. Focus on Sustainable Practices

More brands and consumers are prioritizing sustainability. Reducing waste, using eco-friendly materials, and optimizing energy use can not only cut costs but also attract environmentally conscious partners. Transparency in your supply chain can be a unique selling point.

4. Optimize Operational Efficiency

Reevaluate your production流程 (process flow). Identify bottlenecks and reduce non-value-added steps. Lean manufacturing principles, just-in-time production, and better workforce training can significantly enhance efficiency.

5. Build Strong Relationships with Suppliers and Customers

Long-term partnerships based on trust and reliability can help you negotiate better terms with suppliers and secure loyal customers. Communicate openly and offer flexibility where possible—especially in challenging times.

6. Upskill Your Workforce

Well-trained employees are more productive and can adapt to new technologies and methods. Offer training programs for sewing operators, pattern makers, and supervisors to improve overall capability and morale.

7. Explore Nearshoring or Regional Production

With global supply chains becoming less predictable, many brands are looking for manufacturers closer to their markets. If you’re located in or near regions like the EU, North America, or Southeast Asia, promote your geographic advantage.

8. Offer Value-Added Services

Stand out by providing more than just production. Services like design assistance, fabric sourcing, small-batch production, or quick turnaround samples can make you a preferred partner for emerging brands.

9. Monitor Financial Health Closely

Keep a tight grip on cash flow. Reduce unnecessary expenses, negotiate extended payment terms with suppliers, and ensure prompt invoicing and follow-up with clients. Consider alternative financing options if needed.

10. Stay Agile and Keep Innovating

The market is constantly changing. Stay updated on fashion trends, new materials, and consumer behaviors. Be willing to pivot and adapt your business model when necessary.

Conclusion

Surviving in today’s economy requires a mix of innovation, efficiency, and resilience. By embracing technology, strengthening relationships, and staying adaptable, garment manufacturers can not only navigate these tough times but also build a foundation for future growth.

What strategies is your factory using to stay competitive? Share your experiences below—we’d love to learn from each other.

Will Robots Replace Sewing Machine Operators in the Future of Garment Manufacturing？ 1024 768 admin

Will Robots Replace Sewing Machine Operators in the Future of Garment Manufacturing？

The garment industry has always been a symbol of human craftsmanship and creativity. For centuries, skilled sewing machine operators have been at the heart of clothing production, turning fabrics into wearable art. But with rapid advancements in automation and artificial intelligence, a pressing question arises: will robots eventually replace human workers in sewing operations?

The short answer is: partially, but not entirely—at least not in the immediate future.

The Rise of Automation in Garment Production

Robotic technology has already made significant inroads into many manufacturing sectors, and the textile industry is no exception. Companies are developing sewing robots capable of handling tasks such as:

– Sewing simple garments like t-shirts and jeans  

– Performing precise stitching in standardized patterns  

– Automating fabric cutting with laser precision  

– Using computer vision to detect defects  

These technologies promise higher efficiency, reduced production costs, and fewer errors. For large-scale fast fashion brands, where volume and speed are critical, automation offers a compelling advantage.

Why Human Workers Are Still Irreplaceable？

Despite these advances, sewing remains a complex task that requires a level of dexterity, adaptability, and problem-solving that machines still struggle to match. Consider the following:

1. Complexity of Fabrics: Unlike rigid materials, textiles are flexible, slippery, and vary in texture. Robots often have difficulty handling delicate or stretchy fabrics without causing damage.

2. Intricate Designs: Detailed embroidery, custom tailoring, and creative finishes often require a human touch. High-end fashion and bespoke clothing still rely heavily on skilled artisans.

3. Adaptability: Humans can quickly switch between tasks, adjust to design changes, and troubleshoot unexpected issues—abilities that AI has yet to fully replicate.

4. Economic and Social Factors**: In many developing countries, the garment industry is a major source of employment. Wholesale replacement of human workers with robots could have significant socio-economic repercussions.

A Collaborative Future

Rather than full replacement, the future likely lies in collaboration between humans and robots. Automated machines can take over repetitive, labor-intensive tasks (e.g., sewing straight seams or cutting fabric), while human workers focus on quality control, design, customization, and managing complex assembly processes.

This hybrid model could lead to:

– Increased productivity and faster turnaround times  

– Improved working conditions by reducing physically strenuous tasks  

– Opportunities for workers to upskill and engage in more creative roles  

Conclusion

While automation will undoubtedly transform the role of sewing machine operators, complete replacement is not imminent. The future garment factory may be a blend of robotic efficiency and human ingenuity—where machines handle precision and repetition, and humans bring creativity, judgment, and craftsmanship to the process.

What are your thoughts? Will sewing become a fully automated process one day, or will human touch always remain invaluable? Share your opinions below!

You can use this blog post directly on platforms like Medium or LinkedIn.** Let me know if you’d like a version with hashtags or visual suggestions for social media sharing!

Why Does the Same Piece of Clothing Have Different Price Levels? 1008 756 admin

Why Does the Same Piece of Clothing Have Different Price Levels?

Have you ever noticed that two seemingly identical shirts can have vastly different price tags? One might cost $20 while another, nearly indistinguishable at first glance, is priced at $200. What explains this discrepancy? Let’s break down the key factors that influence clothing pricing, even when the items appear similar.  

1. Brand Value & Perception

Luxury brands charge premium prices not just for the product itself but for the prestige associated with their name. A simple white T-shirt from a high-end designer label can cost hundreds because customers are paying for the brand’s reputation, exclusivity, and perceived status.  

2. Fabric Quality & Material Sourcing  

Two garments may look alike, but the fabric composition can differ significantly. Higher-priced clothing often uses premium materials like organic cotton, silk, or ethically sourced wool, which are more durable and comfortable. Cheaper alternatives might use synthetic blends that wear out faster or feel less pleasant against the skin.  

3. Production & Labor Costs

Ethical manufacturing practices, fair wages, and safe working conditions increase production costs. Fast-fashion brands often cut corners by outsourcing labor to low-wage factories, while sustainable or high-end brands invest in responsible production, leading to higher retail prices.  

4. Design & Craftsmanship

A $200 dress might feature hand-stitched details, custom patterns, or limited-edition designs, whereas a $20 version could be mass-produced with minimal attention to fit and finish. The time and skill invested in craftsmanship justify the higher price.  

5. Marketing & Retail Experience

Luxury brands spend heavily on advertising, celebrity endorsements, and high-end retail spaces (think marble-floored boutiques). These costs are factored into the final price. In contrast, budget brands rely on minimal marketing and online sales to keep prices low.  

6. Supply Chain & Exclusivity

Limited-edition releases or small-batch production drive up demand and prices. Meanwhile, fast-fashion brands quickly replicate trends using cheaper materials and sell them at a fraction of the cost.  

Final Thoughts

While two garments may look similar, the real differences lie in quality, ethics, branding, and production values. Whether you prioritize affordability, sustainability, or luxury, understanding these factors helps make informed purchasing decisions.  

What’s your approach—do you invest in pricier, long-lasting pieces, or prefer budget-friendly fashion? Share your thoughts in the comments!  

A Guide to Printing Methods in Fashion: Techniques and Trends 1024 683 admin

A Guide to Printing Methods in Fashion: Techniques and Trends

A Guide to Printing Methods in Fashion: Techniques and Trends

Printing on fabric is an essential aspect of fashion design, allowing for endless creativity in patterns, colors, and textures. Whether you’re a designer, a fashion enthusiast, or simply curious about how your favorite prints are made, this guide will introduce you to the most common fabric printing techniques used in the industry today.

1. Screen Printing

How it works: Screen printing involves pushing ink through a mesh stencil (screen) onto the fabric. Each color requires a separate screen.  

Best for:Bold, vibrant designs with sharp details.  

– Durable and long-lasting prints.  

– Cost-effective for large batches.   

– Not ideal for highly detailed or gradient designs.  

– High setup cost for small orders.  

2. Digital Printing (Direct-to-Garment – DTG)

How it works:Similar to an inkjet printer, digital printing applies ink directly onto the fabric using specialized printers.  

Best for:Complex, photorealistic designs with many colors.   

– No setup costs, great for small batches.  

– Allows for intricate details and gradients.  

– Less durable than screen printing over time.  

– Can be more expensive for large quantities.  

3. Heat Transfer Printing

How it works:A design is printed onto transfer paper and then heat-pressed onto the fabric.  

Best for:Custom apparel, logos, and small-scale production.  

– Quick and easy for one-off designs.  

– Works well on polyester and blends.   

– May crack or fade after repeated washes.  

– Not as breathable as direct printing methods.  

4. Sublimation Printing**  

How it works:Dye is converted into gas under heat, bonding with synthetic fibers (usually polyester).  

Best for:All-over prints, sportswear, and vibrant designs.    

– No fading or cracking—the design becomes part of the fabric.  

– Seamless, full-color coverage.   

– Only works on light-colored, polyester-based fabrics.  

– Requires specialized equipment.  

5. Block Printing

How it works:A hand-carved block is dipped in dye and stamped onto the fabric.  

Best for:Artisanal, bohemian, and traditional designs.  

– Unique, handmade aesthetic.  

– Eco-friendly with natural dyes.  

– Time-consuming and labor-intensive.  

– Difficult to achieve perfect consistency.  

6. Rotary Printing

How it works:A cylindrical roller transfers dye onto fabric in a continuous process.  

Best for:Mass-produced fabrics with repeating patterns.  

– High-speed production for large quantities.  

– Consistent, high-quality prints.  

– High initial setup cost.  

– Limited to simpler, repeatable designs.  

7. Discharge Printing

How it works:A bleaching agent removes color from dyed fabric, creating a print.  

Best for:Soft, vintage-style prints on dark fabrics.  

– Creates a soft, breathable finish.  

– Eco-friendlier than some other methods.  

– Works best on 100% cotton.  

– Limited color options.  

Which Printing Method Should You Choose?

– For small batches & detailed designs:Digital or heat transfer.  

– For large-scale production:Screen or rotary printing.  

– For sportswear & vibrant colors:Sublimation.  

– For handmade, artisanal looks:Block printing.  

Each printing method has its strengths, and the best choice depends on your design, fabric, and production needs. As technology advances, new hybrid techniques continue to emerge, offering even more possibilities for creative fashion.  

Which printing technique do you love the most? Let us know in the comments!  

—  

Would you like any modifications or additional details on a specific method? Let me know how I can refine this post for your audience!

The Future of China’s Garment Manufacturing Industry: Trends and Predictions 1008 756 admin

The Future of China’s Garment Manufacturing Industry: Trends and Predictions

China has long been the world’s factory, dominating global garment manufacturing for decades. However, rising labor costs, trade tensions, and increasing automation are reshaping the industry. This article analyzes the current state and future trajectory of China’s apparel manufacturing sector, exploring key trends such as technological advancements, sustainability, and shifting supply chains.  

1. Current Challenges Facing China’s Garment Industry  

Rising Labor Costs  

China’s demographic shifts and urbanization have led to higher wages, reducing its cost advantage compared to Southeast Asian countries like Vietnam and Bangladesh.  

Trade Wars and Tariffs  

The U.S.-China trade war and geopolitical tensions have forced many brands to diversify production outside China to avoid tariffs.  

Sustainability Pressures  

Global brands and consumers demand eco-friendly production, pushing manufacturers to adopt greener practices—a challenge for an industry historically reliant on fast fashion and high-volume output.  

2. How China is Adapting  

Automation and Smart Manufacturing  

To counter labor shortages, Chinese factories are investing in AI, robotics, and IoT-enabled production lines. Automated sewing machines and 3D garment printing are becoming more common.  

Upgrading to High-Value Production  

Instead of competing on cheap labor, China is shifting toward high-end apparel, technical textiles, and smart clothing (e.g., temperature-regulating fabrics).  

Nearshoring and Regional Supply Chains  

Some manufacturers are relocating to inland provinces (e.g., Sichuan, Henan) where labor is cheaper, while others establish factories in Southeast Asia but keep R&D and high-tech production in China.  

Sustainability Initiatives  

Chinese manufacturers are adopting:  

– Recycled and biodegradable fabrics  

– Waterless dyeing technologies  

– Solar-powered factories  

3. The Future Outlook  

China Will Remain a Key Player, But Not the Only One  

While some production will move to Vietnam, India, and Africa, China’s mature supply chain, skilled workforce, and innovation capabilities ensure it remains a dominant force—especially in high-tech and luxury segments.  

Digitalization Will Accelerate  

AI-driven design: Algorithms predicting fashion trends.  

Blockchain for transparency: Tracking ethical sourcing and reducing counterfeits.  

On-demand manufacturing: Reducing waste through made-to-order production.

Domestic Market Growth  

With rising middle-class consumption, Chinese brands like Shein, Urban Revivo, and Anta are gaining global influence, reducing reliance on Western brands.  

 Conclusion  

China’s garment manufacturing industry is at a crossroads. While it faces challenges from cheaper labor markets and sustainability demands, its push toward automation, innovation, and high-value production ensures its continued relevance. The future will likely see a more tech-driven, eco-conscious, and diversified industry—one that remains central to global fashion but operates very differently than in the past.  

What do you think? Will China maintain its dominance, or will other countries take over? Share your thoughts in the comments!  

Who Should Choose Small to Medium-Sized Clothing Manufacturers 756 1008 admin

Who Should Choose Small to Medium-Sized Clothing Manufacturers

When launching a fashion brand or sourcing apparel production, many designers automatically think of large-scale factories. However, small to medium-sized clothing manufacturers (SMEs) often provide better solutions for certain types of businesses. But how do you know if an SME is the right fit for you?  

Here’s a breakdown of the types of brands and clients that benefit most from working with smaller clothing factories:  

1. Startups & Emerging Brands

If you’re just launching your fashion line, a small or mid-sized factory is often the best choice because:  

– Lower MOQs (Minimum Order Quantities):Many SMEs accept orders as low as 50–500 pieces per style, unlike large factories that may require 1,000+ units.  

– More Flexibility:They’re more willing to accommodate design changes and small-batch production.  

– Personalized Support:Smaller teams mean direct communication with decision-makers, reducing miscommunication risks.  

2. Sustainable & Ethical Fashion Brands

Many SMEs specialize in eco-friendly production, offering:  

– Transparency:Easier to audit working conditions and material sources.  

– Local Sourcing: Some focus on domestic or regional production to reduce carbon footprints.  

– Slow Fashion Focus:Willing to produce limited quantities without pressuring brands to overproduce.  

3. Niche & Custom-Made Brands

If your brand requires unique craftsmanship, small factories excel at:  

– Made-to-Order (MTO) Production:Ideal for custom sizing, limited editions, or personalized designs.  

– Specialty Techniques: Hand embroidery, small-batch dyeing, or artisanal detailing.  

– Experimental Designs: More open to prototyping and small-run innovative styles.  

4. Mid-Range & Premium Brands (Not Ultra-Luxury)  

Smaller manufacturers strike a balance between quality and affordability, making them ideal for:  

– Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) Brands:Need good quality without luxury markups.  

– Boutique Labels:Require attention to detail but don’t have the budget for high-end ateliers.  

– Subscription Boxes & Pop-Ups:Need frequent small batches with quick turnarounds.  

5. Brands That Value Speed & Agility

If fast adaptability is crucial, SMEs offer:  

– Shorter Lead Times:No complex corporate hierarchies mean quicker decisions.  

– On-Demand Production:Some support just-in-time manufacturing to reduce excess inventory.  

– Easier Sampling Process: Faster prototyping and revisions compared to big factories.  

When Should You Avoid Small Factories?

While SMEs are great for many, they may not be the best fit if:  

– You need massive scale (10,000+ units per style).  

– You require high-tech manufacturing (like advanced sportswear tech).  

– You prioritize rock-bottom pricing over quality and flexibility.  

Final Thoughts

Small and medium-sized clothing manufacturers are ideal for brands that value flexibility, quality, and ethical production over sheer volume. If you’re a startup, sustainable brand, or niche designer, partnering with an SME could be the smartest move for your business.  

Have you worked with small or mid-sized factories? Share your experiences in the comments!

Why Choose a Small MOQ Garment Factory Over a Large One 768 1024 admin

Why Choose a Small MOQ Garment Factory Over a Large One

When sourcing clothing manufacturers, many brands—especially startups, indie designers, and small businesses—assume that bigger factories are always better. However, small MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity) garment factories offer unique advantages that large-scale manufacturers often can’t match. Here’s why opting for a factory that accommodates smaller orders can be a smarter choice for your brand.  

**1. Lower Financial Risk**  

Large factories typically require high MOQs (hundreds or thousands of pieces per style), which means a significant upfront investment. For new or small brands, this can lead to excess inventory, cash flow issues, and unsold stock. A small MOQ factory allows you to order in smaller batches, reducing financial strain and minimizing waste.  

**2. Greater Flexibility for Testing & Innovation**  

With lower order requirements, you can experiment with new designs, fabrics, and styles without committing to massive production runs. This flexibility is perfect for:  

– Testing market demand before scaling up  

– Launching limited-edition or seasonal collections  

– Making adjustments based on customer feedback  

**3. Faster Turnaround Times**  

Large factories prioritize big clients, often leading to longer lead times. Smaller MOQ manufacturers usually have more streamlined operations, meaning quicker sampling and production. This agility is crucial for brands that need to respond to fast-changing fashion trends.  

**4. Better Communication & Personalized Service**  

Smaller factories often provide more direct communication with production managers, reducing misunderstandings and ensuring better quality control. You’re not just another order number—you get personalized attention, which can lead to a smoother production process.  

**5. More Sustainable & Ethical Production**  

Producing in small batches aligns with slow fashion principles, reducing overproduction and waste. Many small MOQ factories also have better transparency in their supply chains, making it easier to ensure ethical labor practices and eco-friendly materials.  

**6. Ideal for Niche & Customized Orders**  

If your brand focuses on unique, customized, or high-end garments, small MOQ factories are more willing to accommodate special requests—whether it’s intricate detailing, sustainable fabrics, or small-run exclusive designs.  

 **Conclusion**  

While large factories excel in mass production, small MOQ garment manufacturers offer the flexibility, affordability, and responsiveness that growing brands need. By partnering with a factory that supports smaller orders, you can reduce risk, adapt quickly, and build a more sustainable and customer-focused fashion brand.  

Looking for a reliable small MOQ clothing manufacturer?Contact www.tosinfashion.com to discuss your production needs!  

Leading Apparel Manufacturers for the Fashion Industry 1024 576 admin

Leading Apparel Manufacturers for the Fashion Industry

Apparel manufacturers play a key role in the fashion supply chain. Fashion brands and retailers are increasingly outsourcing apparel production to reliable manufacturing partners to ensure cost savings and efficiencies, stay ahead of the curve, and keep up with the industry’s changing demands.

As fashion trends continue to evolve, the need to deliver the right product at the right time at the right price is driving the demand for flexible, low-cost and high-speed apparel production.

Discover the best apparel manufacturers in the fashion industry

Just Style has listed some of the leading apparel manufacturers based on its wisdom, insights and decades of experience in the field.

The list includes compliant and competitive fabric producers and apparel manufacturers who employ skilled manpower, state-of-the-art machinery, advanced technology, quality materials and standard systems and processes to produce and supply large quantities of affordable apparel, including women’s apparel, men’s apparel, children’s and baby’s apparel, sportswear, functional apparel, footwear, and other apparel products and accessories in a short period of time.

Sustainable Apparel Manufacturing Companies

The list also includes smart fabric and eco-friendly apparel manufacturing companies, as well as producers of high-value differentiated apparel and accessories, including garments and apparel products made from leather and fur.

The download is useful for fashion designers, creative directors, design assistants, buyers, apparel production managers, apparel industry executives, logistics, warehouse and store managers, and anyone involved in apparel design, production, packaging, marketing, wholesale distribution and retail.

Downloads contain detailed information about apparel manufacturing companies and their product lines, as well as contact information to help you make purchasing or partnership decisions.

Related buyer’s guides covering a wide range of solutions, suppliers and technologies for the fashion and apparel industry can also be found here.

Garment Manufacturing Stages

Garment manufacturing is an organized activity that includes the following sequential processes:

Product design and fabric selection

Sample making and grading

Calculation of garment costs

Production process planning

Making pre-production samples and obtaining design approval

Determining quantities, sizes and color breakdowns

Sourcing and inspecting fabrics and other raw materials

Inspecting fabrics for defects, including yarn, weave, dyeing and finishing defects

Fabric smoothing, spreading, scoring, cutting and binding

Sewing and decorating garments

Adding any embellishments, including buttons, zippers and appliqués

Final inspection, stain removal, mending, ironing/ironing, folding, and

Brand labeling, packaging, and distribution

Technology Trends in Apparel Manufacturing

Modern apparel manufacturers are adopting advanced technologies such as computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM), artificial intelligence, robotics, automation, 3D printing, and laser cutting to speed up the process, make it easier and more efficient, and create better-fitting, better-looking garments with fewer errors.

There is also a growing demand for customized and just-in-time garment production, smart and innovative fabrics equipped with sensors or LED lights, and eco-friendly garments made from sustainable materials such as bamboo, organic cotton, and recycled polyester.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of services do apparel manufacturers offer?

Garment manufacturers offer a range of services including design, fabric sourcing, pattern making, grading and production. They design garments for a variety of markets, including casual wear, sportswear and high fashion. Manufacturers often use advanced technologies such as CAD and automation for mass production to ensure high efficiency, short lead times and adherence to quality standards.

How are sustainable practices affecting the apparel manufacturing industry?

Many manufacturers are adopting sustainable practices, using eco-friendly materials such as organic cotton or recycled polyester and reducing waste in the production process. This shift is helping to reduce the environmental impact of fashion manufacturing and meet the growing consumer demand for sustainable products.

What is custom apparel production and why is it so important?

Custom apparel production enables brands to create unique, bespoke designs to meet specific requirements, whether it’s a fashion line, corporate uniform or promotional merchandise. This approach ensures that the product is exactly what the customer wants in terms of fit, style and fabric, giving them a competitive advantage in the marketplace.

How can technology improve the efficiency of apparel manufacturing?

Advanced technologies such as CAD, automation and robotics have simplified designing.

What to Look for in a Clothing Manufacturer 1024 1024 admin

What to Look for in a Clothing Manufacturer

If you are planning to start a clothing business, here are a few things to consider before choosing a clothing manufacturer.

1. can they manufacture your products?

This may seem like an obvious question, but it is very important. Not all clothing manufacturers can produce all types of clothing. For example, outdoor or sports clothing often requires special materials such as Lycra or waterproof fabrics. You need to make sure that the manufacturer you choose can produce the clothing products you want. Even better, you should try to find a manufacturer that specializes in the clothes you want. If you are going to start a clothing company that sells fashionable summer clothing, then it is best to work with a clothing manufacturer that has a lot of experience in clothing. Just like if you want to sell luxury clothing, then you might want to work with one of the luxury clothing manufacturers and so on.

2. Domestic or Foreign Clothing Manufacturers?

You will need to decide whether you want to work with a local manufacturer in your country or region, or an overseas manufacturer. Often, this means choosing between manufacturers in the United States and Europe or manufacturers in Asia (usually China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Vietnam, India and Bangladesh). It can be difficult to find economically viable apparel manufacturers in smaller countries, but if local manufacturing is important to you, you may be able to do it.

Domestic (U.S., European) Apparel Manufacturers

There are many benefits to working with a domestic apparel manufacturer. For starters, it’s easier to meet with manufacturers, inspect their factories, and discuss your specific needs with no language barrier. There are stricter labor regulations and better working conditions. Consumers are becoming more aware of these things, and “locally made” can be a powerful selling point. You can also enjoy faster shipping times, which will keep customers happy. The quality is usually higher as well.

However, all of this comes at a financial cost. Using a domestic manufacturer is usually more expensive, although you can also charge more for your own garments.

Overseas Clothing Manufacturers

The main benefit of using an overseas manufacturer is cost. They are almost always much cheaper, which is why so many garments are made in China. However, this is usually because labor standards and working conditions are not regulated, which is something you need to keep in mind.

It’s also harder for you to visit and inspect factories. While overseas manufacturers can produce high quality clothing, it is up to you to choose a reputable manufacturer.

When products are shipped internationally, the shipping time is also longer. However, this is not a big problem if you buy clothes in bulk and ship them yourself.

Another benefit is that you can usually get more options from overseas manufacturers – fabrics, styles, etc. – and they are more willing to go out of their way to do business with you.

3. What is the minimum order quantity?

When you work with a garment manufacturer, you need to know what their minimum order quantity is. This means the minimum number of items you need to purchase in an order. Minimum order quantities can range from 200 to 2,000 items or even more. Very few manufacturers do not have a minimum order quantity. It’s important to understand this because if you start working with a manufacturer and place your first order and they tell you that you need to buy 1,500 pieces of the swimsuit you want made, you may not be able to afford it. Also, it’s not a good idea to buy 2,000 suits if you’re not sure you’ll be able to sell them all. This leaves you with excess inventory that will be difficult to sell.

In short, make sure you can manage your minimum order before you start working with a clothing manufacturer.

4. Can they provide product samples?

Try before you buy. There’s a reason clothing stores have fitting rooms, and that’s because people want to know what they’re buying before they buy it. The same applies to your manufacturer. If you have a manufacturer that makes clothes for your company, you need to make sure that you get samples before you place a big order. This is important because if something doesn’t quite fit, you can keep tweaking it until it does. Imagine receiving hundreds of orders for a jacket you designed, only to find out that they don’t fit quite right or are buttoned up wrong.

The easiest way to do this is to raise the issue early in your communication. Most manufacturers are happy to provide samples, usually for a small fee, but you have to get them to commit from the start.

5. What are their fees and shipping costs?

In the excitement and rush, it’s easy to overlook basic due diligence. All you need to do is write a line or two in your email asking the manufacturer if there are any additional fees you should be aware of and what their shipping costs and times are.

This information is important in your decision to work with this manufacturer, so be sure to address it early.

Bonus: Check out our guide to communicating with manufacturers and suppliers (including an email script you can use!) .

6. How productive are they?

You may not think about this until your business is booming. When you’re just starting a clothing line, you may be focused on getting your first order and making the sale. But what do you do if business is better than expected and the clothes sell out quickly? Can you rely on the manufacturer to produce clothes quickly and increase production capacity? This is why you should ask your suppliers about their production capacity. Make sure they have the ability to increase capacity when needed. Also ask about turnaround time or lead time, which is the amount of time it takes for a manufacturer to fulfill an order. You don’t want to miss out on business and sales opportunities by waiting weeks or months for your order to arrive.

7. What are their quality standards?

Unfortunately, this is not something you can ask a manufacturer via email and take their word for it. However, you can do your own research

History of Denim & the Origin of Jeans 1024 609 admin

History of Denim & the Origin of Jeans

Jeans have become such an integral part of everyday life that most of us never stop to think about where our favorite jeans come from, how they are made, and their history.

Despite the wide variety of innovative materials available, denim remains one of the most versatile, durable, and popular fabrics on the market. Denim transcends gender, age and class – most people own more jeans than there are days in a week. Their appeal will always be timeless, but their design and fabric technology evolves with the times.

Now, new “sustainable” denim is emerging as manufacturers respond to consumer demand for eco-friendly fabrics and production processes.

Farmer in jeans in 1930

Farmers in jeans in the 1930s.

Although historians still debate the origin of denim, the fabric is classified as twill, using one colored thread and one white thread. It is widely believed that the fabric was created in Nimes, France.

Chance played a role. While trying to replicate a durable cotton fabric called “jeane” (named after the city of Genoa, Italy), the fabric weavers at nmes realized they had developed a unique, strong and durable fabric.

This fabric is woven in twill, with the weft yarns passing underneath the warp yarns. The weavers dyed the warp blue with indigo, but allowed the weft to turn white naturally. This process gives the fabric a distinctive blue color on one side and white on the other. They call it Serge de n<e:1> mes (which translates to “n<e:1> mes twill”).

Important information

Where does the name denim come from?

The word “denim” comes from a twill fabric called “Serge de n<e:1> mes”, which was originally woven in France in n<e:1> mes.

For Indigo

Synonymous with classic jeans, indigo is one of the oldest dyes used to dye textiles and is the source of the iconic blue color.

Indigo is formulated from organic dyes and has a distinctive blue hue; it was originally produced and exported from India (from which it takes its name) during the Greco-Roman period. Indigo is a natural dye extracted from the leaves of certain plants, a process that was economically important because blue dye was once scarce. Originally made from a plant called indigo, indigo became a highly prized commodity, leading to heavy taxation of Persian, Levantine and Greek exporters. As a result, this classic blue color became a rare luxury item in Europe.

It was not until the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama discovered the sea route to India in 1497 that indigo entered the markets of other colonies. Importers could now avoid high tariffs, and as a result, the use of indigo in European garment manufacturing increased significantly

In 1865, the German chemist Adolf von Bayer began researching the synthesis of natural indigo. He eventually succeeded in 1883, paving the way for the first large-scale industrial production of synthetic indigo in 1897. Synthetic indigo was much cheaper to produce and more reliable, as the color was longer lasting and more durable.

During the California Gold Rush of 1853, Levi Strauss moved to San Francisco to start the western branch of his family’s dry goods business. He was a German immigrant to the United States and moved to New York in 1851 to work with his brother.

Levi sold many products. One of them was sturdy imported cotton denim.

One of his customers was Jacob w. Davis, a tailor. Davis, from Reno, Nevada, purchased Levi’s denim for his business, where he made sturdy and durable items such as tents, horse blankets, and wagon covers. A gold mining company commissioned him to make pants strong enough to withstand hard work.

Davis used metal rivets to add strength and durability to the denim overalls; since Levi’s fabric was so important to them, he proposed a partnership. They became partners and received U.S. Patent 139,121 from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office on May 20, 1873.The patented rivets were later incorporated into the company’s jeans designs and advertising. Production of denim overalls began in the 1870s, and the company created its first pair of jeans in the 1890s.

It was not until the 19th century that competitors in the denim market began to emerge: namely Wrangler (1905) and Lee (1911).

  • 1
  • 2