Here’s How Sample Production Works
To get started with the Sample Production program, the manufacturer must provide the initial prototype sewn from a correctly marked and sized pattern, as long as the initial prototype and pattern were created by another company or individual, which must be approved for production by us.
Submit a 50% deposit for labor charges and submit 100% of the cost of materials, if not already supplied by the manufacturer.
Precise yields for sample production needs to be approved by the manufacturer and Elite Fashion Group dependent on the duplicate samples required by the manufacturer in order to effectively take it to market or to submit it to a sales representative.
Any information required for ordering or receiving of fabric and findings in a timely manner. A timeline that demonstrates any deadlines the manufacturer may need to satisfy, which can be a deadline to ship samples to a sales rep for a particular show.
A timeline because at this stage, it is vital to be conscious of the lead times on raw materials, particularly if the suppliers are outside the U.S. When developing a timeline for sample production, a manufacturer needs to have precise knowledge of the lead times for fabric and findings delivery. The Elite Fashion Group is willing to work directly with manufacturers to identify a timeline that is acceptable.
Product Development
The first step in bringing your idea to reality. We are able to generate samples from a conceptual idea or from your existing specifications or hard copy pattern. Our sample makers work closely with our pattern maker to create the garment samples you require. Weekly fit meetings are conducted to evaluate against the specs needed by the sewing room in order to adhere to customer guidelines.
Sourcing
Our team will acquire fabrics and materials or contact your requested vendor. You will receive a swatch or sample for approval prior to construction. Other materials necessary for a retail-ready garment are sourced as well, including trims, labels, hangtags, etc. If artwork is necessary, files will be delivered to you in vector format with detailed information (print type, size and location) and strike-offs will be sent for approval.
Patternmaking & Grading
Our experienced on-staff pattern maker can develop your first pattern, create a pattern from an existing sample or specification, or make alterations to hard paper patterns or digitized data. Our garment pattern maker works very closely with the product development department to create a proper look and garment fit. Working from the original pattern, all sizes are graded to your specifications. We use the state-of-the-art Gerber AccuMark System to generate accurate, dependable patterns.
Lead times for production vary based upon the total number of steps required to complete the order.
Standard timeframes:
- Standard lead time – 4-6 weeks
- Custom milled fabric – add 3-6 weeks
- Fabric dying – add 1 week
- Printing – add 1-2 weeks
If custom fabrics are necessary, a 4-5 week minimum is needed to produce fabrics prior toproduction being started. For first time production runs, we highly recommend using in-stock fabrics available at our Los Angeles location.
Delivery
Finished goods are delivered directly to your designated location.
Support
We are personally on site to protect your interests through every step of the development, design and manufacturing process to ensure garments are produced to your specifications and expectations.
Services summary
- Raw Material Purchase
- Development
- Pattern & Grading & Design Development
- Sewing
- Samples
- Screen printing
- Cutting
- Embroidery
- Finishing
- Shipping