Ever received clothes that didn’t match your expectations?
If you’re a clothing brand owner, imagine your manufacturer getting an entire batch wrong. Total disaster! That’s where tech packs and spec sheets come in—they’re your go-to tools for clear and accurate communication with factories.
In this article, we’ll break down the difference between a tech pack and a spec sheet, and guide you through creating effective instructions for clothing manufacturers.
What Is a Tech Pack?
A tech pack is a complete document that outlines every detail of your garment for manufacturing. It acts as a blueprint that helps ensure your designs are executed exactly as intended.
A typical tech pack includes:
Cover sheet (style number, season, category)
Flat drawings (front and back)
Measurement chart and grading
Fabric and trim information
Construction details
Packaging and shipping instructions
Sample request & comment sections
In short: A tech pack saves time, reduces errors, and speeds up production by providing crystal-clear communication.
What Should Be in a Tech Pack?
🖼 1. Flat Drawings with Annotations
Include front and back views with detailed callouts for design elements like pockets, seams, zippers, etc. Add CAD files or vector illustrations for accuracy.
📐 2. Size Breakdown and Quantity Chart
List all sizes (e.g. XS-XXL) and how many units per size. This keeps production aligned with your order plan.
🧵 3. Material Information
Include name, colorway, composition, GSM, and finish. This ensures the right fabric and feel for your garment.
🧷 4. Component List
Mention everything: labels, embroidery, prints, thread, trims, buttons, zippers—don’t leave anything out.
📦 5. Packaging & Shipping Details
Specify how you want your garments packed (folded or hanging), boxed, labeled, and where they should be shipped.
What Is a Spec Sheet?
A spec sheet (short for specification sheet) is often a simplified version of a tech pack. It’s commonly used by startups or for quick prototyping when speed matters more than detail.
What it includes:
Product sketch or flat drawing
Basic measurements
General material type
Size range and fit notes
Key technical details
It’s faster to create but not as comprehensive as a tech pack.
Tech Pack vs Spec Sheet: A Quick Comparison
Pro tip: Use a spec sheet for quick sampling. But once you move to bulk orders, always switch to a full tech pack.
5 Quick Tips to Create Clear Instructions for Manufacturers
1️⃣ Schedule a Call with Your Manufacturer
Understand their capabilities, machinery, and limitations before you send over the tech pack.
2️⃣ Start Simple, Then Improve
It’s okay to begin with a draft. Update your documents as the sample process evolves.
3️⃣ Use Basic Drawings First
A clean hand sketch or simple vector image can work in early stages.
4️⃣ Share Fabric and Component Samples
Send swatches and trims for reference. It saves tons of back-and-forth communication.
5️⃣ Ask the Factory for the Final Measurement Chart
Provide basic measurement rules; let the manufacturer prepare the final chart based on your size range and construction.
Conclusion: Which One Should You Choose?
If you’re ready for mass production or want accurate cost estimates, go with a tech pack.
If you’re just starting out or prototyping, a spec sheet can be a quick solution.
🔗 Need help creating your tech pack or spec sheet?
Contact YUDI Clothing today – let’s turn your clothing ideas into reality with precision and professionalism!
