When looking at a sweater on a store shelf, it may seem easy to judge its quality – you either like it or you don’t. But is it really that simple?
Unfortunately, reality is more complex. The world of knitting and knitwear manufacturing involves many details that affect a product’s durability, comfort, and overall impression. Fortunately, there are several simple ways to determine whether a sweater is well-made.
What Should You Check When Reviewing a Sweater from a Manufacturer?
1. Start from the Inside
Sounds unusual? Maybe, but the inside of a sweater reveals the most about its quality.
- Check for loose or unfinished threads inside. A professional manufacturer ensures all details are neatly finished.
- Examine the edges of the fabric. Ideally, they should not be finished with an overlock stitch (left photo below) but rather shaped directly on the knitting machine (right photo below). Why is this important? Besides aesthetics, it minimizes fabric waste and ensures more precise manufacturing.
- Look at the seams. They should be even and close to the edge. Seams positioned far from the edge (e.g., 1 cm or more) may indicate poor stitching precision.
- Check the labels – both the material composition tag and the brand label. They should be sewn on straight, without folds or misalignment.
2. Test the Seam Elasticity
Gently stretch the sweater at the side and along the neckline ribbing. High-quality seams should flex slightly without separating or making a cracking sound. If in doubt, ask the manufacturer what machines they use for stitching. The best answer? Linking machines – they ensure both elasticity and seam durability.
3. Feel the Fabric
The “hand feel” of a knit fabric is subjective – it refers to how soft and comfortable the material feels to the touch. Compare several sweaters to get a sense of differences.
- If you expect the sweater to be soft and fluffy, check if it meets your expectations.
- If it should be firm and dense, see if it has the right structure.
Also, inquire about finishing processes. A good response would include steam pressing and refinement through washing, which enhance the fabric’s texture and longevity.
4. Check the Measurements
A sweater should match the size chart proportions, but if it has been hanging for a long time, it may have slightly deformed. How can you verify this? Ask the manufacturer for technical documentation, which should include:
- A size chart for all sizes
- The product’s weight
- Production process details
- Timeframes for each production stage
This information reflects the manufacturer’s professionalism and ensures consistent quality across all sweater batches.
5. Verify the Yarn Composition
Look at the fabric composition tag and request a yarn catalog from the manufacturer. Compare the details – does the provided information match reality?
6. Inspect the Packaging Process
It’s important to understand how the sweaters are packaged and shipped:
- Are they individually protected?
- Are the cartons sturdy?
- Is palletized shipping available (safer than individual parcels)?
These factors impact the condition in which the products will arrive at your warehouse.
7. Now, Consider the Appearance
If the sweater has passed all the above tests, you have solid reasons to believe it is well-made and meets your quality expectations. Only now should you focus on selecting colors, patterns, knits, and sizes – the elements that matter most to your business.
Conclusion
Quality is not just about appearance – it’s about craftsmanship, materials, and attention to detail. By following these steps, you can confidently choose a manufacturer who delivers high-quality sweaters that align with your business needs.