When it comes to bringing a fashion collection to life, sample development is one of the most critical stages in the production process. It’s the step where your creative vision transforms from sketches and ideas into a tangible product — allowing you to refine designs, test fits, and ensure quality before committing to full-scale manufacturing.
What is Sample Development?
Sample development is the process of creating a prototype garment that represents the final product. This involves translating your design into patterns, grading to the desired sizes, cutting fabrics, and sewing the first physical version. It’s the moment you get to see how your design works in real life — and make adjustments if needed.
Why is it So Important?
- Fit Accuracy – A well-made sample reveals exactly how a garment fits on the body. Adjustments at this stage save time and costs later.
- Quality Control – You can check fabric performance, stitching quality, and finishing details to ensure the final product meets your standards.
- Production Efficiency – By ironing out issues early, you reduce delays and errors when you move into mass production.
- Client and Buyer Approval – Samples allow you to showcase your designs to buyers, investors, or retailers before large-scale production.
Types of Samples
- Toile / Prototype – Made from inexpensive fabric to test fit and construction.
- Pre-Production Sample (PPS) – Created using final fabrics and trims for final approval.
- Size Set Samples – Produced in each size to verify grading accuracy.
- Sales Samples – Used for marketing, photoshoots, and presentations.
How Gradeline-Datagraf Can Help
With over 150 years of combined experience in pattern grading and garment production, we know that a flawless sample is the key to a flawless final product. Our team works closely with designers and brands to ensure every detail — from grading accuracy to seam placement — is perfected before production begins.
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 or 📧 production@gradeline-datagraf.co.uk