MEPION

Creating a tech pack for knitwear is a vital phase in transforming an artistic concept into a consistently manufacturable garment

Unlike woven fabrics, knitwear exhibits distinctive characteristics—stretch, fluid drape, and structural elasticity—that demand specialized technical documentation

A meticulously crafted tech pack acts as the definitive blueprint for manufacturers, ensuring seamless alignment across design, sampling, and production teams

The purpose and target market directly shape material selection, stitch complexity, and construction techniques

Your target demographic will influence everything from yarn weight to finishing details

Include precise flat sketches from all critical angles: front, back, side, and optional detail views

These illustrations must clearly indicate seam placements, hem finishes, neckline shapes, and decorative motifs like cables, lace, or Fair Isle patterns

Material specifications are non-negotiable—list the exact yarn composition, including fiber percentages, weight per skein, and thickness

Example: 65% cashmere, 35% silk, 180g per hank, 2-ply

Whenever possible, name the yarn brand and approved supplier

Knitwear performance hinges on yarn behavior—even minor shifts in fiber type or ply can dramatically impact drape, stretch, and hand feel

Specify the knitting machine type and its gauge—5-gauge yields a loose, open knit, while 12-gauge creates a tight, dense fabric

If using circular or flatbed machines, specify the configuration and needle arrangement

If your design incorporates varied stitch patterns—ribbing, jacquard, Fair Isle, or intarsia—mark exactly where each begins and ends, using centimeters or inches

Always include a measurement table with all key dimensions: bust, waist, hip, armhole depth, and total length

Note the state of tension during measurement to avoid misinterpretation during sampling

Define acceptable variance: ±3mm for sleeve length, ±5mm for body length

A half-centimeter shift in shoulder width can make a Cotton-like sweater feel too tight or too loose

Specify joining techniques to ensure durability and aesthetic consistency

Indicate whether seams must be flatlocked for a seamless look or if a specific stitch type is required for strength or visual appeal

Include notes on finishing touches: hemming techniques, bias binding, rolled edges, or reinforced cuffs

Always indicate label positioning, orientation, and attachment method

Protect knitwear from snags—specify packaging materials that prevent abrasion and deformation

fail thresholds: "Max 2 pilling dots per 10cm²," "Shrinkage no more than 3% after wash"

Reference relevant industry standards like ASTM, ISO, or AATCC where applicable

A robust tech pack eliminates ambiguity, prevents misinterpretation, and minimizes costly production errors

Always get feedback from an experienced knitter or technical consultant prior to sending to production

Feedback at this stage can prevent weeks of rework, delays, and wasted materials

In knitwear, the difference between good and great lies entirely in the documentation’s accuracy