The process of clothing manufacturing includes a series of operations necessary to create a finished garment. These operations typically involve cutting, sewing, and finishing, but they may vary based on the equipment, work methods, and the skills of the workers.

Garment suppliers manage the conversion of raw materials into finished goods, ensuring that each piece meets the brand's specifications. The process involves quality checks, evaluation of fit, sizing standardization, and determining the right product mix.

Production planning is crucial to ensuring each operation is performed with maximum efficiency, managing manpower, machines, materials, and payments across a large number of daily operations.

Key Stages in the Clothing Manufacturing Process

1. Order Received


2. Capacity Check


3. Delivery Date Confirmation


4. Materials and Trims Sourcing


5. Fabric Ordering


6. Sample Making


7. Sample Approval


8. Final Review


9. Production Run


10. Quality Control


11. Packaging and Delivery

Each of these steps ensures that the final garment meets the required quality and specifications.

Clothing Manufacturing Types

1. CMT (Cut, Make, Trim) Clothing Production

CMT is one of the most common types of garment production. In this process, the manufacturer is responsible for cutting, sewing, and finishing the garments based on the specifications provided by the brand. Brands using this manufacturing type supply a tech pack that includes patterns, fabrics, and trims, which allows the manufacturer to focus solely on the garment construction.

Benefits of CMT:

• Brands maintain full control over fabric selection, labels, trims, and packaging.


• The process is efficient and cost-effective, ideal for brands with a detailed tech pack.


• CMT suits brands with experience in garment production.

CMT Drawbacks:

• Errors may occur if specifications are incorrect, leading to costly disputes and delays.


• Requires a strong, factory-ready tech pack and supervision from the brand.

2. FPP (Full Production Package)

FPP (Full Production Package) is a more comprehensive production type, where the manufacturer handles all stages of garment creation, including pattern making, fabric and trims sourcing, sample making, and final garment production. Brands that opt ??for  #mce_temp_url# work closely with the manufacturer to bring their designs to life from start to finish.

Benefits of FPP:

• Ideal for startups, as the manufacturer assists with every stage, from initial designs to finished products.


• Provides a holistic approach to garment creation, with expert guidance on trends, fabric sourcing, and manufacturing.


• Helps emerging brands bring their visions to life with professional support.

FPP Drawbacks:

• The cost is generally higher due to the comprehensive service provided.


• Requires the manufacturer to have significant expertise and resources in all aspects of garment production.

Low MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity) vs. Mass Production

Startups and new clothing businesses often look for manufacturers with low MOQs, which allow for smaller production runs. These manufacturers are generally more flexible and are keen to build long-term relationships with emerging brands.

On the other hand, mass production manufacturers are responsible for large-scale production, often for established brands or department stores. These manufacturers prioritize speed and efficiency, ensuring that large volumes of garments are produced and delivered in a timely manner. However, this can sometimes lead to poor-quality garments and overproduction.

Choosing the Right Clothing Manufacturer

When selecting the right manufacturer for your clothing brand, consider these key questions:

• Who is your target customer?


• What are your brand's core values?


• What is your production budget?

Answering these questions will guide you toward the right type of manufacturer for your needs, whether that's a low MOQ CMT manufacturer or a full-service FPP provider.

Case Study: Lydia Design Studio 

Lydia Design Studio is a top clothing manufacturer based in the USA #mce_temp_url# , specializing in offering full-package production services tailored for startups. The studio provides comprehensive clothing manufacturing solutions from the very beginning of the design process to the final finished product.

Lydia Design Studio handles every aspect of garment production, including:

• Pattern Making: Creating precise patterns based on your designs.


• Fabric Sourcing: Identifying and sourcing the right materials for your collection.


• Sample Making: Creating prototypes of your designs for approval.


• Final Production: Taking your approved sample and moving it into full-scale production.

By offering a full production package, Lydia Design Studio provides emerging brands with the guidance and resources needed to bring their vision to life. From the initial design to the final product, Lydia Design Studio ensures high-quality, sustainable, and ethically made clothing, supporting startups in building their brand with personalized service and attention to detail.

Benefits of Working with Lydia Design Studio:

• Complete End-to-End Service: From concept to finished garment, Lydia Design Studio handles all steps of the production process.


• Sustainability: Committed to using eco-friendly and sustainable materials in every piece of clothing.


• Expertise: With years of experience in pattern making, grading, and garment production, Lydia Design Studio provides top-quality craftsmanship.


• Tailored for Startups: The studio specializes in helping emerging brands, offering flexibility and personalized attention throughout the entire production process.

Lydia Design Studio is committed to supporting startups by offering high-quality, custom clothing manufacturing services with an emphasis on sustainable and ethical production practices. With a focus on providing high-quality, made-to-order garments, Lydia Design Studio ensures that each brand's vision is brought to life with precision and care.