📐 Tech Pack Guide
Tech Pack 101: How to Create Professional Specifications for Manufacturers
By Sanchuan Apparel | March 20, 2026 | 12 min read
📚 Definition
Tech Pack (Technical Package) is a comprehensive document containing all specifications, measurements, and materials needed to manufacture a garment. It serves as the communication bridge between designer and factory.
Why Tech Packs Matter
A well-crafted tech pack is the difference between getting what you want and costly miscommunications. Benefits include:
- Fewer samples: Reduce sampling rounds by 50%
- Accurate pricing: Precise specs = accurate quotes
- Faster production: Less back-and-forth clarification
- Consistent quality: Factory has clear reference
- IP protection: Documents your design
Tech Pack Components
✅ Complete Tech Pack Checklist
- ☐ Technical flat drawings (front, back, side, details)
- ☐ Measurement specification sheet
- ☐ Bill of Materials (BOM)
- ☐ Colorways and Pantone references
- ☐ Construction details
- ☐ Stitching specifications
- ☐ Labels and branding placement
- ☐ Packaging instructions
1. Technical Flat Drawings
Flat drawings show the garment without any drape or perspective. Include:
- Front view: Main design elements, pockets, buttons
- Back view: Back details, seams
- Side views: If design differs on sides
- Detail callouts: Zoom on important features
- Interior view: Lining, facing, construction
⚠️ Common Mistake
Don't use fashion illustrations or photos as technical drawings. Factories need flat, proportional drawings with clear construction details.
2. Measurement Specification Sheet
The most critical part of your tech pack. Include:
Key Measurements for T-Shirts
- Chest (1" below armhole)
- Bottom hem
- Shoulder width
- Front length (HPS to hem)
- Back length (HPS to hem)
- Sleeve length
- Armhole depth
- Neck width
- Neck drop (front and back)
- Cuff opening (for long sleeves)
Key Measurements for Hoodies
- All t-shirt measurements above, plus:
- Hood height
- Hood opening
- Pocket width and depth
- Drawcord length
- Rib cuff width
- Hem rib width
Measurement Tolerances
Standard tolerances allow for production variation:
- Chest: ±1" (2.5cm)
- Length: ±1" (2.5cm)
- Sleeve: ±0.5" (1.25cm)
- Neck: ±0.25" (0.6cm)
3. Bill of Materials (BOM)
List every material used in production:
BOM Template
- Main fabric: Type, weight (GSM), composition, color, supplier
- Lining: If applicable
- Interfacing: Type, weight, placement
- Thread: Color, weight
- Zippers: Brand, length, color, type
- Buttons: Size, material, color, quantity
- Drawcord: Length, material, end type
- Elastic: Width, stretch percentage
- Labels: Main label, size label, care label
- Tags: Hang tag, price tag
4. Construction Details
Specify how the garment is assembled:
Stitch Types
- Single needle: Basic seams
- Double needle: Hems, topstitching
- Coverstitch: Stretchy hems
- Flatlock: Athletic, no-bulk seams
- Overlock: Seam finishing
Seam Allowances
- Standard: 3/8" (1cm)
- Heavy fabrics: 1/2" (1.25cm)
- French seams: 5/8" (1.5cm)
5. Color Specifications
Use standardized color references:
- Pantone numbers: Industry standard
- Color swatches: Physical fabric samples
- Multiple views: Color placement diagram
⚠️ Warning
Colors look different on screens. Always provide physical color swatches or Pantone references. Request fabric strike-offs before production.
Tech Pack Best Practices
- Be specific: "Chest 20"±1"" not "relaxed fit"
- Use industry terms: Factory understands standard terminology
- Include tolerances: Every measurement needs a tolerance
- Number your revisions: TP-v1, TP-v2, etc.
- Update after sampling: Document all changes
- Include reference images: Similar products for clarity
- Specify packaging: How items should be folded and packed
Tools for Creating Tech Packs
- Adobe Illustrator: Industry standard for flat drawings
- Techpacker: Dedicated tech pack software
- Canva: Basic, user-friendly option
- Excel/Google Sheets: For spec sheets and BOM
FAQ
What is a tech pack for clothing?
A tech pack (technical package) is a document containing all specifications needed to manufacture a garment. It includes flat drawings, measurements, materials, construction details, colors, and trims. A complete tech pack ensures the factory produces exactly what you want.
What should be included in a tech pack?
A complete tech pack includes: 1) Technical flat drawings (front/back/side), 2) Measurement spec sheet with tolerances, 3) Bill of Materials (BOM), 4) Colorways and Pantone references, 5) Construction details and stitch types, 6) Labels and branding placement, 7) Packaging instructions.
How detailed should a tech pack be?
The more detailed, the better. Include every specification: seam types, stitch counts, thread colors, button sizes, label placements. Missing details lead to assumptions, which cause errors. A comprehensive tech pack reduces sampling rounds by 50% and ensures consistent production quality.