How do you get clothing produced in the Netherlands?
You know what you want to make. Now the question is: how do you get from that idea to a delivered product? Clothing production in the Netherlands follows a fixed route, but the details determine whether it goes smoothly or not. This is how it works.
Step 1: Know what you want to make
Before you approach a clothing manufacturer, you need at least the following: a clear description of the product, a sketch or reference images, an idea of the desired materials, and an estimate of the quantities.
You don't need to have a tech pack yet. But the more concrete you are, the more meaningful the first conversation with a clothing manufacturer will be. You can read more about what you need in our article on common mistakes in clothing production.
Step 2: Approach a clothing manufacturer early
Most beginners wait too long for this conversation. A good clothing manufacturer will also help you think about feasibility, materials, and realistic costs. That is valuable input for decisions you will have to make anyway.
At smaller Dutch ateliers, you can start with small runs, sometimes from 20 to 30 pieces per style. They generally work more personally and are more collaborative than large foreign factories. You can read more about how to choose the right clothing manufacturer in our article what to look for in a clothing manufacturer.
At Atelier Jungles, we start with a production consultation (€220): a session in which we go through your design, material choices, and production plan, so you know exactly what to expect before taking further steps.
Step 3: Sample phase
After the intake meeting, an initial sample is made. This is a physical prototype of your product. You assess the fit, the finish, and the materials and provide feedback for adjustments.
Expect one to three rounds of sampling before a product is ready for production. You can read more about what happens during the sample process in our article how a sample process works.
Step 4: Create a tech pack
Once the sample is approved, a tech pack is created: a technical document with all the specifications of the product. Sizes, seams, material codes, labels, finishes, everything the clothing manufacturer needs to produce consistently.
You don't have to create this yourself. A clothing manufacturer or production consultant will compile this with you. You can read more about what a tech pack is in our article what is a tech pack and do you need one.
Step 5: Production and delivery
With an approved sample and tech pack, the order goes into production. Depending on the scale, this takes two to six weeks. After quality control, the products are delivered or picked up.
With local production in the Netherlands, you can more easily visit, ask questions, and make adjustments along the way. This reduces uncertainty and surprises later on.
What does it cost?
The costs consist of several components: the production consultation, the sample costs, and the production price per piece for the final order. Piece prices in the Netherlands are higher than abroad, but the minimum order size is lower, and communication and quality control are easier to organize.
You can read a detailed overview of what clothing production costs in our article what does clothing production cost in the Netherlands.
How long does the entire process take?
From the first conversation to the delivery of your first order: expect three to six months. You can read a detailed overview per phase in our article how long does clothing production take.
Ready to get started?
Contact us and tell us what you want to make. Then we will see together if and how we can help you further.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a tech pack before I approach a clothing manufacturer?
No. A sketch and a description are sufficient for an initial conversation. You create the tech pack after the sample is approved.
What is the minimum order size in the Netherlands?
At smaller ateliers, often between 20 and 50 pieces per style. This varies by clothing manufacturer and type of product.
Can I be present during the sample phase?
Yes, with local clothing production in the Netherlands. This is one of the concrete advantages compared to producing abroad.
What if the sample is not good?
Then a correction round will take place. This is a normal part of the process. A good clothing manufacturer will explain what has been adjusted and why.
What is the difference between producing in the Netherlands and abroad?
Higher piece prices, lower minimum orders, shorter communication lines, and more control over the process. You can read a detailed comparison on our page clothing production Netherlands vs. abroad.
