You’re finally placing your first big order. Exciting? Yes. But it’s also a learning curve—and most new brands stumble here. Let’s set expectations right.
1. Sampling Takes Time
First samples won’t be perfect. They’re for spotting issues. Expect 1–2 revisions. If your factory delivers the perfect sample on try #1, either they’re magicians—or they just didn’t look closely.
2. Production Isn’t Next-Day
Factories juggle multiple orders. Even if you’re a priority client, bulk production can take 4–8 weeks depending on complexity and fabric availability.
3. Expect Minor Variations
A button may sit 1mm off. A label might be stitched slightly higher. Minor tolerances are normal. If you expect 100% perfection, you’ll be disappointed (and probably not in this business for long).
4. Communication Is Key
Your factory isn’t a mind reader. Be detailed, share feedback fast, and don’t ghost them after submitting your tech pack.
Pro Tip:
Document everything. Use shared sheets, image markups, and keep records of every change. That way, if anything goes wrong—you’ve got backup.
Conclusion:
First runs are like test drives. You’ll learn, tweak, and get smarter for the next round. Trust the process, stay patient, and partner with a factory that cares.