Production

• Dockets

A docket is a form given to the manufacturer outlining the amount of garments required in different sizes. The docket also consists of fabric and trim samples as well as the production deadline and agreed price ensuring that you and the manufacturer are working to the same information.

• Manufacturing & CMT

Finding a reliable manufacturer with the necessary skills can be difficult, but once you have researched and gathered a list of possible manufacturers it is important to assess the suitability of each one and if possible, visit the premises and enquire about other brands/designers they manufacture for. Assessing the location, payment terms, health and safety and ethical standards will also be relevant points to examine when selected the most suitable manufacturer.

• In Work Checks

Meeting with the garment manufacturer during the production process allows you to inspect and review the first of the lay sample and garments in work. By carrying out in work checks you will be able to see if garments are being made consistently, machines are clean and check the quality control. By doing this early you will be able to rectify any potential problems.

• Top of the Lay Production

A top of the lay is when the first set of production garments goes down the line with the machinist and you check the finished garments straight away. These can be specially requested by a buyer or designer.

• Black Sealing

Once all the production requirements have been agreed a ‘sealed’ sample is created to demonstrate the quality level expected for the rest of the production. This sample, called red or green seal, will be the focus of any garment discussions or issues. It isn’t up until the bulk production that a black or gold seal can be applied. After carrying out an in work inspection and review of garments a black or gold seal is achieved to demonstrate the production of your garments are at a standard you are happy with.

• Cabbage

Cabbage occurs when the cost of garments is carried out incorrectly in production and the manufacturer can produce extra garments that they will then claim to be their own. An accurate docket will prevent this occurring.

• Unit Price

The unit price refers to the cost to manufacture each garment. Some companies also use unit price as an estimation method for buyers who purchase in bulk, meaning purchasing products in large quantities at a low price per unit.

• JIT

Just in Time (JIT) is a method designed to improve the return on investment of a business by reducing in-process inventory. The JIT system promotes the delivery of products directly from the factory to the retail market.

• Lead Times

The lead time is the amount of time taken between placing an order and receiving the goods. In regards to the garment production stage, it refers to the lead time between placing the order or giving the docket form to the manufacturer and accepting delivery of the final garments.

• Progress Sheets

A progress sheet is used to keep check of the progress through the stages of a particular production order.