Tech Packs 101 — What Every New Fashion Brand Needs to Know
If you’re starting a fashion brand, you’ve probably heard the term tech pack come up a few times, usually right after you start talking to a pattern maker, sample maker, or manufacturer.
And if you’ve ever felt a little fuzzy on what a tech pack actually is (and why everyone keeps asking for one), you’re not alone.
Let’s break it down.
What is a Tech Pack?
A tech pack (short for technical package) is the blueprint for your garment. It’s the document that explains every detail your factory needs to produce your design accurately , from the fit and measurements down to the smallest stitching detail.
Think of it like the architectural plan for your clothing line. Without it, your factory is building without instructions.
A typical tech pack includes:
Flat sketches (front, back, and close-up details)
Construction notes — how seams, hems, and finishes should be done
Measurement specs for each size
Bill of materials (BOM) — fabrics, trims, hardware, and labels
Fit notes and sample comments
Artwork placement for prints or embroidery
It’s the single source of truth for your design, and it keeps everyone (designer, sample maker, manufacturer) on the same page.
Why Every New Brand Needs One
1. It eliminates guesswork
Manufacturers don’t interpret moodboards or rough sketches. They rely on exact details. Without a tech pack, factories often misunderstand your design, and the result can look completely different from what you had in mind.
2. It saves money
Every time a sample comes back wrong, you pay for it, in time, materials, and frustration. A detailed tech pack helps you get things right the first time and reduces costly back-and-forth revisions.
3. It keeps your product consistent
If you’re producing multiple styles or working with different factories, consistency is key. A tech pack ensures your fit, details, and quality stay aligned across every run.
4. It shows professionalism
Even if you’re just starting out, showing up to a factory with a clear tech pack signals that you’re serious about your brand. It builds trust and leads to better partnerships.
What Happens Without a Tech Pack
Without one, your factory has to make assumptions, and that’s where problems start:
The fit is off.
Stitch lines or trims are misplaced.
Fabrics or finishes don’t match your vision.
Essentially, your design gets lost in translation. The result might share your inspiration, but it’s no longer your design.
Where to Start
If you’re new to fashion production, don’t worry, most designers aren’t expected to create tech packs on their own. It’s a specialized skill that blends design, patternmaking, and technical knowledge.
At Lilith Apparel, we help new brands develop professional tech packs that clearly communicate your design to your factory, so your vision comes through exactly as you intended.
You bring the creativity. We make sure it’s understood.
Your tech pack is the bridge between imagination and execution. Without it, even the best ideas can get lost in translation.
With it, you’re setting your brand up for smooth development, clear communication, and products that reflect your original vision, perfectly.
