What Is an Apparel Tech Pack and
Why You Need One
By Emma Golley | April 6th 2025
When it comes to turning your clothing design into a real product, one of the most important tools you'll need is a tech pack. Whether you're working with a local seamstress or a large overseas factory, a tech pack is the blueprint that communicates every essential detail about your garment. Without it, you’re leaving your production up to guesswork—and that can cost time, money, and quality. Most manufacturers will not work with you without tech pack.
What Is a Tech Pack?
A tech pack (short for technical package) is a detailed document that outlines all the specifications of a garment. It serves as the main communication tool between a designer or brand and the factory. Think of it as the instruction manual for how to make your clothing.
A standard tech pack includes:
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Technical sketches (front, back, and detail views)
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Measurements and size specs
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Materials and fabric details
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Trims and accessories (e.g., zippers, buttons, labels)
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Colorways
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Construction details
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Artwork or print placements
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Packaging instructions
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Revision history
Why Is a Tech Pack So Important?
Here’s why a well-prepared tech pack is a non-negotiable if you’re serious about producing apparel:
1. Clarity for Manufacturers
Factories work with dozens—if not hundreds—of clients. A clear, detailed tech pack ensures they can understand exactlywhat you want, without confusion or constant back-and-forth.
2. Consistency in Samples and Production
Without a tech pack, each sample round can bring inconsistencies. With one, you create a standard reference point to ensure your product looks and fits the same every time.
3. Cost and Time Efficiency
The more precise your tech pack, the fewer mistakes and remakes. This saves money on sampling and avoids costly errors in bulk production.
4. Accurate Pricing
Factories use your tech pack to estimate the cost of materials, labor, and production. If your specs are vague, your quote will be too—and it could change mid-production.
5. Professionalism
Presenting a tech pack shows you're serious, prepared, and easier to work with. It builds trust with your factory and often leads to smoother collaborations.
Who Creates the Tech Pack?
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Designers often create tech packs using tools like Adobe Illustrator or CAD software.
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Technical designers also specialize in turning creative ideas into precise manufacturing documents.
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Some freelancers or agencies offer tech pack services if you’re not ready to build one in-house.
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We at Emma Golley Design Studio are able to create industry standard Tech packs for your brand, click here to book a free call to discuss your needs.
Do You Always Need a Tech Pack?
If you’re:
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Making custom garments from scratch with a factory = Yes. Always.
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Using pre-existing blanks (e.g., printing on stock t-shirts) = Not necessarily, but a simplified version can still help.
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Working with low MOQ or sample-first factories = Yes, Almost always. Some may assist in developing your tech pack, but you’ll still need the basics.
Making Smart Decisions For Your Brand
A tech pack might seem intimidating at first, but it’s one of the smartest investments you can make as a brand. It gives you control over the final product, helps prevent costly mistakes, and sets the foundation for scalable, professional production.
Whether you’re launching your first collection or scaling up, having a solid tech pack in place means you’re speaking the same language as your factory—and that’s where the real magic happens.
To execute your tech packs, it's always advisable to hire a professional. Hiring the right designer with years of experience will result in thorough, high quality tech packs.
Need further help creating industry standard tech packs for your brand? We'd be delighted to assist you.
Click here to learn more about our services or schedule a free call via this link.
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