Have you ever wondered how your favorite dress looked perfect before you bought it? It all starts with a sample! In the garment industry, samples play a big role. They help make sure everything looks great. Today, let’s dive into the different types of samples used in the garment industry. It’s like peeking behind the curtain of fashion!
What is Sample?
A sample in the garment industry is like a practice piece. It is made to test a design, fit, or fabric. Think of it as a prototype of your favorite shirt or dress. It helps the people making clothes see if they need to make changes before making lots of them.
Why are Samples Important?
Samples are super important because they help:
- Check the design: They make sure the design looks good.
- Test the fit: They test if the clothes fit well.
- Choose the right fabric: They help pick the best fabric.
- Fix mistakes: They find and fix mistakes early.
- Save money: They help avoid wasting materials and money.
Types of Samples in the Garment Industry
That is, a miniature version of a large part or a small part is a sample. I don’t know any physical definition of the Sample. Before going into bulk production, garment samples are made and sent for approval to buyers for specific purposes according to their needs.
The buyer will not confirm any order for you. You can only proceed with bulk production and shipment of garments after the buyer approves specific samples before and after order confirmation. As mentioned earlier, samples can be of many kinds according to the requirements of different buyers.
Challenges in Samples Development
- Time Constraints
- Cost Considerations
- Communication Issues
Different Types of Samples
1. Development Sample
Developing any new style gives the sketch, measurements sheet & trim sheet / BOM (Bills of Material) of that style. Accordingly, the first Sample sent is called the Proto / Development Sample. The primary purpose of this Sample is to see the garments’ styling and the artistry of the vendors who have been given this development, i.e., how well they can sew and wash the garments. Based on this Sample, the buyer comments and accordingly sends the Sample again later.
2. Wash Down Sample
The primary purpose of this Sample is to see if the garment has been washed. Especially with denim, buyers like to see different washes on the same fabric. That’s why this Sample is made.
3. Fit Sample
Just by hearing the name, it is clear what this Sample can do. The job of this Sample is to get fit approval for the garment, i.e., to check whether the garment is made according to proper fitting.
A style has many sizes. It is optional to make fit samples for all sizes. In this case, the buyer should make or approve one or two pieces of a specific size. Once the appropriate Sample is approved, the fitting of the rest of the samples is fixed by grading accordingly.
4. Advertising Sample
Buyers usually promote a style on their website and online shops two and a half months before a manner hits the market. The models typically do these after the photoshoot.
5. SMS Sample (Salesman Sample)
These samples are also made for promotional purposes. But what is being done now is that before confirming the order, buyers present examples of different styles in their stores, check the customers’ feedback, and accordingly confirm the order of the types that have received good feedback.
6. PP (Pre-Production) Sample
Before the production of a style is started, the fit is approved, the measurements are approved, the fabric and trims brought with the booking are made, and samples are made. The purpose of making this Sample is to ensure everything will be according to the buyer in bulk production.
7. Size Set Sample
This Sample is usually made after the PP Sample is approved before starting Bulk Cutting. Since only two specific sizes are done, measurements and pattern adjustment checks are made by making samples of all sizes to check whether the measurements are correct, and all departments hold a meeting for discussion that is called a PP Meeting (Pre-Production Meeting)
8. TOP (Top of The Production) Sample
After starting production, the buyer asks for a sample to check if everything is in order. It is usually sent to the buyer within a few days of starting.
9. GPT (Garment Package Test) Sample
Before placing any buyer’s order shipment, the International Third Party Testing Lab brings some samples from the bulk production. First, the text was corrected for spelling and punctuation errors and made more concise: “Garment shipments are tested for physical strength, chemical behavior, safety, and compliance with local laws.” According to the buyer’s various parameters, it is correct. This is a sample generated by GPT.
10. Shipment Samples
Buyers keep a random garment piece from the final shipment audit as a sample for packing details and product referencing. The factory and buyer keep a shipment sample for future reference in case of any customer complaints regarding product design.
Conclusion
In conclusion, samples are integral to garment manufacturing as prototypes that undergo scrutiny and refinement before mass production. Understanding the various types of samples used in the garments industry and their significance is essential for stakeholders involved in the production process. Despite the challenges, efficient communication, technological advancements, and collaboration can help overcome obstacles in sample development and ensure the successful execution of garment production.
Also Read: Top 4 Type Of Sample Used In Garment Industry
Frequently Asked Questions
How many types of garments samples are there?
1. Development Sample
2. Wash Down Sample
3. Fit Sample
4. Advertising Sample
5. SMS Sample (SalesMan Sample)
6.PP (Pre-Production) Sample
7. Size Set Sample
8. TOP (Top of The Production) Sample
9. GPT (Garment Package Test) Sample
10. Shipment Samples
What is Sample in Merchandising
Samples are the words you hear most often in merchandising. This sound will revolve around you all the time and will keep you distracted at the same time. In the case of trainees, the first responsibility is to sample follow-up.
What are samples in clothing?
In clothing, “samples” are prototype garments used to test design, fit, and look before mass production. They’re crucial for refining designs and may be used for promotional purposes.
