Frequently Asked Questions
Understanding the Process
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A mock-up, sometimes called a muslin or toile, is an early physical version of the garment used to evaluate overall shape, proportion, and preliminary fit. It is often made in a substitute fabric with similar weight, stretch, drape, or structure to the intended final material.
A digital rendering is a visual representation of the garment created in CAD or 3D software. It helps confirm silhouette, proportion, color direction, and certain design details before a physical sample is made. It is a useful planning tool, but it does not replace a physical fit sample.
A sew-by sample is a fully constructed sample made from the pattern and technical documentation. It is used to evaluate fit, construction, workmanship, materials, and production readiness.
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A pattern is the set of templates used to cut and sew the garment.
A tech pack is the production document that explains how the garment should be made. Depending on the tier selected, it may include technical flats, measurements, material and trim information, construction notes, labels, placement details, grading information, and revision history.
Together, the pattern and tech pack give a sample room or factory the information needed to produce the style consistently.
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Every brand, style, and production plan requires a different level of documentation.
Some clients need a simple development package to begin patternmaking and sampling. Others need a more detailed, factory-ready package that supports quoting, sourcing, production, and communication across multiple teams.
Our tiered approach allows you to begin at the appropriate level for your current stage, then add documentation as your style moves closer to production. Each tier builds on the prior level with additional detail, clarity, and production support.
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We develop grading based on your size range, target customer, brand fit preferences, garment category, fabric behavior, and industry sizing conventions.
If your brand has an established fit model, size chart, or unique fit philosophy, we can tailor the grade rules to support that direction.
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Fittings can be completed in person or virtually.
During a fitting, we assess proportion, balance, mobility, comfort, construction, and overall appearance. We then document agreed-upon changes and update the pattern and technical documentation accordingly.
For remote clients, we can fit the garment with an appropriate fit model while you attend virtually. The sample can then be shipped to you for review and confirmation before the next revision is completed.