Apparel sampling: approve your sample before bulk
Approve it
before bulk.
A sample lets you check fabric, fit, colour and branding before committing to production.
Why sample
Catch problems early.
Fabric feel, colour and fit are hard to judge from a drawing or a photo. A sample gives you a real garment to inspect, wear and test — so changes are made on one piece, not a whole run.
How it works
Five steps to approval.
Brief
You share the specification, references and logo files.
Sample made
We produce a sample to the agreed specification.
Your review
You check fabric, measurements, colour, branding and finish.
Revisions
We adjust until the sample matches what you want.
Approval
The approved sample becomes the bulk standard.
Checklist
What to check on a sample.
Fabric
Weight, handfeel, stretch, shrinkage and colour fastness.
Fit & measurements
Measure key points against your size chart and wear-test.
Colour
Compare against your Pantone or physical reference in daylight.
Branding
Logo size, placement, embroidery density and print quality.
Construction
Stitching, seams, rib quality, zips, pockets and trims.
Labels & packaging
Neck labels, care labels, hangtags and folding/bagging.
Sample types
Which sample do you need?
Apparel production uses a few standard sample types. You won’t always need every one; we agree which ones your order needs when we quote.
| Sample | What it is for | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Proto sample | First version of a new style, to check the look, construction and branding | New designs |
| Fit sample | Checks measurements and how the garment sits on the body, usually in one base size | New patterns or fits |
| Size set | One piece in several sizes, to check grading across your size chart | Teamwear with adult and youth sizes, new size charts |
| Pre-production sample | Made in the bulk fabric and trims with final labels; becomes the approved standard | Before bulk production |
| Top of production | Taken from the first bulk pieces to confirm production matches the approved sample | Start of bulk, on request |
Your feedback
How to review a sample.
- Wash it once the way your customers will, then check size and colour again
- Measure it flat against your size chart and note each point that is out of tolerance
- Compare colours in daylight against your Pantone or physical reference
- Photograph any issue next to a ruler and mark it up
- Send all comments in one message so revisions happen in one round
- Keep your approved sample safe: it is the reference your bulk order is checked against
FAQ
Sampling questions.
Can I see a sample before ordering in bulk?
Yes. We recommend approving a sample for every new style.
Are samples charged?
Sample terms are confirmed with your quotation so you know before you proceed.
Can I request changes to the sample?
Yes. Share your feedback and we will revise until it is right.
How long does sampling take?
It depends on whether the fabric and trims are available or need to be made to your colours, and on the decoration. We confirm sample timing with your quotation so you can plan your launch.
Do you make samples in every size?
Usually we sample one base size; a size set can be made if you want to check grading before bulk.
LET’S TALK
Ready to start your order?
Design your product in the AI studio or send us your brief. We reply with questions, a sample plan and a clear quotation.