Garment Quality Checklist

Garment Information

Log the essentials at the top so every inspection stays traceable back to a specific style, sample stage, and inspector.

• Brand, style name, and style number
• Factory, color, and size
• Sample stage: Counter Sample, Fit, Salesman, Size Run, PPS, or TOP
• Inspector name and inspection date

Construction

Workmanship is where quality issues surface first. Check the stitching, seams, and reinforcement against your tech pack.

• Seam quality: no open seams or seam slippage, consistent throughout
• Reinforcement: bar tacks or double stitching at stress points (pockets, belt loops, fly, crotch, underarms)
• Seam type and stitch density (SPI) match tech pack specifications
• Stitch consistency: even spacing, no skipped stitches, no puckering, balanced thread tension, no loose threads
• Thread quality matches tech pack (color, weight, fiber content)
• Overall construction meets brand quality standards

Cutting & Layout

Poor cutting and layout can't be fixed later. Confirm the fabric was laid and cut according to the tech pack.

• Pattern matching: prints, plaids, or stripes align at all seams as specified
• Repeat direction: print repeat orientation matches tech pack
• Stretch direction matches tech pack specification
• Nap direction matches tech pack specification

Fabric Quality

The finished garment is only as good as the fabric. Verify it matches the approved swatch and holds up to wear.

• Fabric weight (GSM) matches approved swatch and tech pack
• Hand/handfeel consistent with approved sample
• Stretch and recovery: meets performance requirements, returns to shape
• Pilling resistance: no pilling after wash or abrasion testing
• Colorfastness: no fading, bleeding, or transfer after washing
• Shrinkage within acceptable tolerance (typically <3-5%)
• Opacity: no unexpected sheerness under tension
• Grain alignment: fabric grain runs straight, no torque or skew in panels
• No weaving or knitting defects, holes, snags, slubs, or damage

Finishing Details

Finishing is what separates a sample from a sellable product. Inspect the details a customer will notice.

• Edge finishing: no raw edges, fraying, or loose fibers
• Hems: clean, even; technique matches tech pack (topstitch, blind, rolled)
• Lining attached neatly, no bunching or pulling
• Labels: placement, content, and attachment match tech pack
• Pressing: seams pressed flat, no shine or burn marks
• Cleanliness: no oil stains, glue, chalk, or adhesive marks
• Hang tags and packaging match brand specifications

Trims & Hardware

Trims and hardware are common failure points in the field. Confirm each is correct, secure, and functional.

• Attachment: all trims and hardware securely attached
• Finish quality: no rough edges, burrs, or defects
• Correct specification: matches tech pack (style, size, color, finish)
• Function: all hardware operates smoothly and correctly
• Placement as indicated on tech pack

Fit & Measurements

Fit determines fit-to-sell. Measure against the graded spec sheet and compare to your approved fit sample.

• Key measurements match graded spec sheet within tolerance
• Symmetry: left and right sides match (if applicable)
• Fit consistency: matches approved fit across all sizes
• Ease and proportions match approved fit sample
• Garment balance: hangs evenly on body/form, side seams fall straight
• Sleeve/hem even on both sides, except for asymmetrical garments

Approval Status & Next Steps

Close every inspection with a clear verdict and the next action so nothing stalls between stages.

• Status: Approved, Approved with comments, or Rejected
• Next step: Counter Sample #, Size Run, Pre-Production, or TOP
• Record comments to hand off to the factory or your team

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