Start with what you have
Planning a washed hoodie for your clothing brand? A clear brief helps your manufacturer understand the look you want and assess what needs to be developed before quoting.
You do not need a complete tech pack to begin. Reference images, an estimated quantity and a description of the finish you want are enough to start the conversation. Add the details below as your project moves towards sampling.
1. Show the shape and construction
Send front and back views of your design. Sketches, a tech pack or reference photographs with notes can all help. If you use several references, explain what you want from each: the fit from one image, the colour from another and the pocket shape from a third.
- Pullover or zip-up construction; relaxed, oversized or regular fit.
- Body length, hood shape, pockets, cuffs and hem.
- Distressing, raw edges or hardware requirements, marked separately.
2. Define the washed appearance
“Vintage wash” can mean different things to different people. Show the base colour, the amount of fading and where you want lighter or darker areas. Mark worn edges and distressed details separately rather than assuming they are included.
Photographs communicate a direction, but lighting and screens affect how colour appears. When a close match matters, discuss sending a physical reference and approving a washed sample. The workshop photograph below shows garment handling and drying equipment; it is not a reference for the finished colour of your own hoodie.
3. Describe the fabric and hand feel
If you know the specification, include the fabric composition, weight in GSM and whether you want French terry or brushed fleece. If you are unsure, describe whether the hoodie should feel substantial and structured or softer and more relaxed.
The fabric and washed finish need to be assessed together during development. Confirm the proposed material before approving the final sample.
4. Provide measurements or a fit reference
Share a size chart with the chest width, body length, shoulder width and sleeve length. Make clear whether these are the required finished measurements after washing. If you have a physical garment with the right fit, discuss using it as a reference.
Before bulk production, agree on the finished measurements and tolerances. Review the appearance and fit together on the completed washed sample.
5. Include artwork and branding
Send the artwork together with its intended size, colour and placement. Explain whether the decoration should look clean and sharp or have a faded or distressed appearance.
The order of decoration and washing should be reviewed for the specific design. Approve a sample with the intended decoration and finish together. The equipment photograph provides workshop context; your own artwork and fabric will determine what needs to be tested.
- Print or embroidery files and placement measurements.
- Neck labels, care labels, hangtags and packaging requirements.
- Any custom zipper, drawcord or other trim requirements.
6. Share quantities, timing and delivery details
An estimated order quantity is useful even if you have not finalised your size breakdown. Label estimates clearly and ask which fabric, colour or trim choices may affect minimum quantities.
- Quantity per style and colour, plus the required sizes.
- Target budget or price range.
- Desired sample completion and delivery dates.
- Delivery country and postcode.
Before approving the sample
Review the sample in consistent lighting. Check its colour, hand feel, finished measurements, seams, ribbing and decoration. Record changes using marked photographs and measurements where possible.
Keep the approved sample as the production reference and discuss acceptable variation before production begins.
Your quick enquiry checklist
Copy this checklist into your message and fill in what you know. Leave undecided details open so we can discuss them with you.
- Style and fit reference:
- Wash-effect images or physical reference:
- Fabric and GSM, if known:
- Estimated quantity, colours and sizes:
- Print, embroidery and branding requirements:
- Target delivery date and destination:
Develop your washed hoodie with YILI
Send YILI Clothing your references, estimated quantity and the finish you want to achieve. If your fabric choice or size chart is still undecided, tell us what you have and what you need help developing.
Use the project enquiry button below to discuss what needs to be confirmed before sampling.
