Do I Need a Tech Pack? (Yes — and Here’s Why)
(Yes — and Here’s Why Every Designer Should Have One)
If you’re new to launching a clothing line, you’ve probably heard the term “tech pack” tossed around — maybe by pattern makers, production managers, or factories asking for one before they’ll quote your line.
So what is a tech pack?
Do you really need one?
And what happens if you skip it?
Let’s break it down.
What Is a Tech Pack, Really?
A tech pack (short for technical package) is the instruction manual for your garment. It tells the manufacturer exactly how to make your design — including measurements, materials, stitching methods, trims, labels, and more.
Think of it as the bridge between your vision and your product. Without it, you’re leaving the success of your garment up to chance.
Why a Sketch or Reference Photo Isn’t Enough
Many first-time designers send a drawing or an inspiration photo to a sample maker and say, “Can you make this?”
Here’s why that’s risky:
Your sketch doesn’t show how long the zipper should be.
Your inspo photo doesn’t say what kind of fabric was used.
Your sample doesn’t tell them how to recreate the same fit 100 times.
Without a tech pack, factories will guess — and their guess might not match your vision.
Even the most experienced production team can’t read your mind.
What Goes Inside a Tech Pack?
(A simplified breakdown)
While tech packs can vary slightly, here are the core components:
Flat Sketch (Front & Back)
Clean, detailed technical drawings showing all design features
Includes seams, topstitching, pocket placement, etc.
Bill of Materials (BOM)
A list of every component: fabric, lining, thread, zipper, buttons, labels, etc.
Includes color, content, and vendor (if known)
Construction Details
How the garment should be assembled (e.g., “double topstitch at shoulder seam”)
Stitch types, seam finishes, hems, etc.
Size Specs / Measurement Chart
The base size measurements for each point on the garment (e.g., chest, waist, sleeve length)
Used for grading into other sizes
Labels & Placement
Brand label, care label, size label — with exact placement and dimensions
Fit Notes or Special Instructions
Any notes you want the factory to know, such as “must match plaid at side seam” or “intended to be oversized”
Photos or Reference Images (Optional)
If you have an inspiration piece or example of a construction detail, you can include annotated photos for clarity
How Tech Packs Prevent Costly Mistakes
Without a tech pack:
A factory might choose the wrong fabric weight
Seams may be stitched in the wrong direction
Buttons could be spaced unevenly or too far from the edge
Sizing may be completely off
You’ll spend more time and money fixing errors later
With a tech pack:
✅ You’re in control of the outcome
✅ The factory knows exactly what to do
✅ The garment can be replicated consistently — at scale
And most importantly:
✅ You avoid surprises, delays, and unnecessary sample revisions
Real Examples of What Can Go Wrong Without One
🔸 A designer sent in a sample dress and got a production run back with invisible zippers… on the wrong side.
🔸 Another brand received shirts with half-inch shorter sleeves — because no specs were provided.
🔸 One factory swapped a poly lining for cotton because they didn’t know it mattered. (It did.)
These mistakes weren’t because the factories were careless — it’s because they weren’t given the right information.
When to Create One — and Who Can Help
The best time to create your tech pack is after you’ve finalized your design and fabric, and before you go into sampling.
If you’re not comfortable building one yourself (they require technical design knowledge), work with a professional. A tech pack created by someone who understands construction, fit, and production can save you thousands in avoidable errors.
Final Takeaway: Don’t Skip the Tech Pack
You don’t need to be a big brand to use tech packs — but you do need one to run your business like a professional.
It’s one of the best investments you can make in your line.