Bringing a clothing design to life involves more than just creativity and inspiration. Behind every successful garment lies a clear, well-documented plan — and at the heart of that plan is the tech pack.
Whether you’re an emerging designer or an established brand working with a manufacturer, a detailed tech pack helps ensure that your designs are accurately produced, on time, and on budget. It eliminates guesswork, reduces costly errors, and serves as the foundation for smooth communication throughout the production process.
In this blog, we break down what a tech pack is, why it’s important, and how it fits into the broader garment development and pattern grading process.
What Is a Tech Pack?
A tech pack (short for technical package) is a comprehensive blueprint for a garment. It outlines all the key specifications, including:
- Flat sketches (technical drawings)
- Measurements and size specs
- Fabric and trim details
- Stitching and construction methods
- Colourways
- Grading rules and tolerances
- Labelling and packaging instructions
Think of it as the instruction manual your manufacturer uses to bring your vision to life — a detailed reference that answers all the “how” questions before production even begins.
Why a Tech Pack Is Essential
Consistency
Tech packs ensure that your product is made consistently, whether it’s being produced in the UK, Europe, or overseas. With clear instructions and measurements, there’s less room for interpretation — and fewer costly surprises.
Time and Cost Efficiency
A well-prepared tech pack helps avoid delays caused by back-and-forth emails or unclear instructions. It also prevents sampling errors, saving both time and money in the development phase.
Seamless Pattern Grading
When it comes to grading your garments into multiple sizes, the measurements and tolerances within your tech pack become critical. Grading without this information can result in sizing inconsistencies — which often leads to poor fit, returns, and damaged brand reputation.
How Tech Packs Support the Pattern Grading Process
Pattern grading is the step that translates a base pattern (usually a sample size) into a full size range. Graders rely on detailed measurement charts, tolerances, and garment construction notes — all of which should be included in the tech pack.
Grading without accurate data can result in a garment that fits well in one size but loses proportion and balance in others. A clear tech pack supports our grading team in maintaining your design’s integrity from the smallest to the largest size.
Common Tech Pack Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
While tech packs are essential, they must also be accurate and complete. Here are a few pitfalls to avoid:
- Incomplete measurements – Don’t assume your manufacturer or grader will fill in the gaps.
- Missing construction details – Always include stitch types, seam allowances, and finishings.
- Unclear sketches – Technical drawings should be precise and labelled clearly.
- No update trail – If you revise the design, make sure your tech pack is updated and versioned accordingly.
Working with experienced professionals can help ensure your tech packs are clear, complete, and industry standard.
Final Thoughts
A well-constructed tech pack is one of the most powerful tools in garment development. It empowers you to communicate your design vision clearly, streamline your workflow, and ensure your patterns are graded accurately.
Whether you’re preparing for mass production or creating a limited-run collection, investing time in your tech pack is investing in the success of your entire range.
Established in 1986, Datagraf Ltd T/A The Grading Bureau have come together with Gradeline, who were established in 1989, to build Gradeline-Datagraf Ltd and create an unrivalled, high-quality, cost-effective service, both within the UK and to an extensive international client base.
For over 30 years, we have specialised in pattern grading for women’s, men’s and children’s wear, and we pride ourselves on always creating an enduring end product of the highest calibre.
Our expert staff have in excess of 150 years of combined industry experience. We work on all manner of briefs for industry-leading clients, including high-street names and designers.
We have a proven track record of high-level work, which has won us numerous loyal customers all across the UK, Europe and UAE.
📞 Contact us at 020 8211 3301 📧 production@gradeline-datagraf.co.uk