Types of samples
| Sample | Purpose | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Proto sample | First version of the design | Overall look, construction, proportions |
| Fit sample | Refine fit on a real body | Measurements, comfort, drape |
| Size set | Check grading across sizes | Each size against the size chart |
| Pre-production (PP) sample | Final approval with bulk materials | Fabric, colour, print, labels, finishing |
| Top of production (TOP) | Pieces pulled from early bulk | Bulk matches the PP sample |
Small brands often combine steps, for example going from proto straight to PP for a simple tee with proven measurements.
How to brief a sample
- Send a tech pack with measurements, fabric, GSM and artwork.
- Include a reference garment if you have one with the fit you want.
- Confirm sample cost, timeline and whether it adjusts against bulk.
- Agree measurement tolerances upfront.
How to review a sample
- Measure every point and record differences in a table.
- Try it on people of your target size. Check shoulders, chest, length and sleeve.
- Check fabric: GSM, hand-feel, colour.
- Inspect construction: seams, neck finish, hems, rib.
- Check decoration: placement, colours, sharpness.
- Wash it three to five times for shrinkage, bleeding and print durability.
Give feedback that gets fixed
Vague comments like "make it more oversized" lead to more rounds. Give measured changes instead:
| Vague | Clear |
|---|---|
| Make it more oversized | Chest width +4 cm in all sizes, drop shoulder by 3 cm |
| Print looks too low | Move print up to 7 cm below neck seam |
| Fabric feels thin | Change to 240 GSM combed cotton |
| Neck looks off | Rib width 2 cm, reduce neck drop by 1 cm |
Mark changes on photos, update the tech pack version and send both together.
Costs and timelines
Samples cost more per piece than bulk because each is cut and sewn individually, sometimes from fabric bought in small quantities. Each round commonly takes one to three weeks; custom fabric, dyeing or embroidery adds time. Budget for at least two rounds on a new style.
How pooled lots shorten sampling
In a pooled lot the base garment, fabric and construction are already developed and shared. You mainly review the fit, fabric and your own print or labels, instead of developing a pattern from scratch. That can save rounds, time and sampling cost on your first drop.
Common sampling mistakes
- Approving a sample without washing it.
- Changing several things at once without measurements.
- Skipping the PP sample, then finding bulk fabric or colour is different.
- Not keeping the approved sample as the reference for bulk checks.
Want help moving from sample to production? Read how to vet apparel suppliers or talk to Voz Cruda.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a clothing sample cost in India?
Sample costs vary with the garment, fabric and decoration. Samples cost more per piece than bulk because each one is made individually. Some factories adjust sample charges against your bulk order, so ask upfront.
How long does garment sampling take?
Each sample round often takes one to three weeks, depending on fabric availability and decoration. Most new styles need one or two rounds before approval.
What is a pre-production sample?
A pre-production (PP) sample is made with the exact bulk fabric, trims, labels and decoration. Once you approve it, it becomes the standard the bulk order is checked against.
Do I need samples if I join a pooled order?
In a pooled lot the base product is usually already developed, so you mainly review the fabric, fit and your own branding or print. It shortens sampling compared with developing a garment from scratch.
How many sample rounds are normal?
One or two rounds is common for simple products with a clear tech pack. Complex fits or new fabrics may need more. A detailed tech pack reduces rounds.