If you’re starting a new knitwear project, sooner or later you’ll hear this: “You’ll need a proto sample.” Every custom project starts the same way: with a proto sample knitwear piece. There’s no way around it — if you want bulk production, you need a proto first.
And the question most often asked is: “If I pay for the proto sample, does that price include corrections?”
Let’s break it down.
What is a proto sample in knitwear production?
A proto sample is the very first version of a design that gets made in real life. This is the step where a sketch, reference photo, or tech pack turns into an actual product you can hold, wear, and test.
Perfection isn’t the goal. The aim is learning:
- Does the design look the way it was imagined?
- Is the fit right?
- Does the yarn behave as expected?
- What can be expected from bulk production?
Think of it as your “first draft” in knitwear prototyping.
What does the sweater proto sample price cover?
When paying for a proto, the cost reflects the full process of making that one garment. It typically includes:
- Knitting program – a programmer prepares the digital program so the machine can produce the design.
- Sewing coordination – the sewing technologist supervises assembly and ensures the garment matches the design and patterns.
- Machine setup – a technician programs the pattern into the knitting machine.
- Linking and sewing – The sewing department links and assembles your product.
- Washing and finishing – the proto goes through washing, steaming, and finishing to reveal its true look.
- Yarn – even for one proto, cones of yarn must be ordered; multiple colours require more cones, and mills have minimums and shipping small amounts is always more expensive.
- Shipping – the finished proto is sent for review.
In the end, the result is a complete piece that can be seen, evaluated, and tested.
So no, it’s not just “one sweater.” It’s one sweater with the full production process behind it.
What does the sweater proto sample price not cover?
The proto price generally applies to one sample only. It does not cover a second proto after corrections.
The first proto is for evaluation: review it, try it on, and note what feels right or needs adjusting. Small corrections — like sleeve length, body width, or slight proportion tweaks — are often carried into production rather than creating another proto. Why? Because making a second proto adds weeks to the schedule.
Before bulk starts, a PPS (Pre-Production sample) can be ordered. This is the checkpoint to confirm agreed adjustments, and it is often also used as a photo sample — essentially two functions in one. The cost is usually 2× the bulk unit price.
At the PPS stage, no new design changes can be introduced. Only discrepancies from the agreed specification can be flagged.
Most common questions brands ask about proto sample cost
Different factories handle protos differently. Some include several rounds in the price; others charge separately.
Common questions include:
- “Is the proto price just for the program?”
- “Does it cover a second proto if I need one?”
Experienced buyers usually know the difference. For newer brands, this can be confusing — which is why it’s important to clarify early.
When is a second sweater proto sample needed?
Most of the time, one proto is enough. Adjustments are carried into production and later confirmed in the PPS.
But sometimes a second proto is useful:
- Big changes – when adjustments mean rewriting the knitting program, e.g. a new knit structure or reprogramming a complex pattern.
- Small changes – when minor tweaks (longer sleeve, shorter body, narrower fit) are made but there’s a need to see the new version before bulk.
Both are possible, but a second proto always adds time — typically 1–4 weeks. That time has to be built into overall schedule.
Typical costs of sweater and accessories proto samples
Proto costs vary depending on garment type and complexity. They also reflect the scope of sweater sample development.
- Larger garments (sweaters, pants, skirts, vests, dresses, blouses): €350–€950
- Smaller items (beanies, scarves, gloves, balaclavas, bonnets, blankets): €210–€470
The cost depends on the yarn, number of colours, and knit structure. Once all design details are agreed, a precise price is set.
Refunds of proto sample costs in bulk production
At Piwi Femma, proto costs are partly or fully refunded when production goes ahead:
Larger garments
- 200+ pcs → €150 refund
- 300+ pcs → €300 refund
- 1000+ pcs → full refund
Smaller items
- 200+ pcs → €75 refund
- 300+ pcs → €150 refund
- 1000+ pcs → full refund
Refunds apply only to the proto that becomes the base for bulk production. If more than one proto is made, only the version used for production qualifies.
FAQ
Q: Can production start without a proto?
A: No. Every private label knitwear production process begins with a proto.
Q: If corrections are needed, does that mean another proto?
A: Usually no. Corrections are applied in production and confirmed with the PPS. A second proto counts as a new project.
Q: Will every proto I pay for be refunded?
A: No. Refunds apply only to the proto used for production not to earlier rounds.
Q: How long does a proto take?
A: Typically around 4 weeks.
Summary: what the sweater proto sample price includes
The proto sample price covers the knitting program, yarn, sample preparation (knitting, linking, sewing, finishing), one finished piece, and shipping.
It does not cover a second round of protos after corrections. Small adjustments are usually handled in production and confirmed in the PPS. A second proto is possible, but it is treated as a new project with its own cost and timeline.
Refunds apply only to the proto that goes into production.
So when asking, “Does the proto sample price include corrections?” — the short answer is: No. It includes one program and one finished garment, forming the foundation of private label knitwear production. Everything else is a new round.
