Different Types of Samples are using in Fashion / Apparel Industry (Part # 01)

Sampling is one of the most important processes in garments industry which has a vital role in attracting the buyers. Normally buyers are placed an order after satisfying with the quality of samples. As its importance on garments industry, today I will discuss about the different kinds of sample used for completing an order.

There are three broad classes of samples, one for each phase. These sequential phases are based on,

q  Design

q  Sales

q  Production

These sequential phases are design, sales and production. Design related samples are to model design ideas and (ideally) finalize the pattern for production. Sales related samples are used to predict orders from buyers. The last types of samples are intended to test consistency in production. Technically (and optimally) speaking, all sampling should take place during the first phase of design (R&D) because you can’t get to selling (second phase) if you don’t have production (third phase) lined up. I’m aware practices are all over the map these days but I have tried to cover every contingency.

This list may be overwhelming because I have attempted to be all inclusive but it does not mean you will need to have all of these kinds of samples produced. There is also quite a bit of overlap depending on your operation. 

01. Sample Name: Muslin

Alternative Name: dummy, mock-up, drape

Explanation:  This is the very first concept sample, typically sewn in an inexpensive fabric. This is a concept sample, often a rough rendition of a drape sewn together. Used primarily by designers who prefer to convey design ideas in actual fabric as part of their creation process instead of drawing a sketch or, they have an idea but can’t articulate it so they put fabric to mannequin instead. It’s a loose take of your design used to visualize an idea in three-dimensional form.

02. Sample Name: Fit sample or First sample

Alternative Name: original sample, design sample, sample test garment, development sample.

Explanation: This is a sample made from the first (or production quality) pattern (which was made from the muslin or mock-up) and intended to test the designer’s idea or concept in the chosen fabrication. If design, fabrication and fit of this sample come out as planned and don’t need corrections, it is approved and becomes the prototype sample.

03. Sample Name:  Prototype

Alternative Name: proto, primary Sample

Explanation: This sample is the result of previous iterations, the version that meets the designer’s test for execution. The fit should also be as expected so it would also be a fit sample for companies that use a separate designation. Ideally, a proto sample is also a sew by as described below. If you sew in house, the prototype should be used for costing and become the production sew-by.

04. Sample Name:  Sew by

Alternative Name: pre-production sample, pre-pro, costing sample.

Explanation: This sample reflects all of the desired construction details and is used to solicit contract sewing bids (CM&T). It is called sew by because contractors use this sample to create a costing or pre-production sample. Again, ideally the prototype sample is also a sew by.

05. Sample Name:  Sizing samples

Alternative Name: size run, size set.

Explanation: Sample lot production of a style in all the intended sizes. Ideally you design sizes to target your customer profile early on in product development. This may not be possible if your silhouettes vary greatly between styles, meaning you will need to test sizes of various styles.

06. Sample Name:  Counter sample

Alternative Name: Reference samples, Floor Samples, Approval Samples.

Explanation: These samples are to be made in actual fabrics with actual trims. If the order is for 3 colors, buyer may need samples in any one color and swatches (fabric bits) in other colors. These samples should be strictly as per the specification in the order sheets. We have to get the approval for these samples from the buyer before starting Production.

   

To be Continued.....................