What does clothing production cost in the Netherlands? Prices and unit costs explained
The most frequently asked question when you want to have clothing produced: what does it cost per piece? The honest answer is that the unit price depends on several factors — but a realistic framework can certainly be provided. In this article, you will read what clothing production costs in the Netherlands, what determines the price, and what you can expect per type of garment.
Note: this article is about production costs — consulting, cutting, sewing, and finishing. Are you looking for an overview of all costs to start a clothing line including branding and marketing? Then read what does it cost to start a clothing line.
How does the cost process work in clothing production?
Clothing production at Atelier Jungles takes place in four steps — each step has its own costs:
- Introductory meeting — free, online or in our studio
- Production consultation — paid, fixed rate
- Sample phase — per style, based on hourly wage
- Production — unit price × quantity + materials
Below we explain each step.
Step 1 — Introductory meeting (free)
The process always starts with a non-binding introductory meeting. In this meeting, we discuss your idea, target audience, desired products, quantities, and budget. You will receive an honest assessment of feasibility and a rough planning. This meeting is free and can be held online or in our studio in The Hague. Schedule an introductory meeting here.
Step 2 — Production consultation (€220 ex. VAT)
The production consultation is the preparation for the sample phase. In a session lasting an average of a morning or afternoon — online or at our studio — we will put together the collection and make concrete choices about:
- Materials, colors, and fabrics
- Size chart and fit
- Labels, packaging, and finishes
- Possible delivery times and planning
- Budget per style
After the production consultation, you will receive a clear price per item and a proposal for the further planning. The fixed rate is €220 excluding VAT. This amount will be settled later when you go into production.
The production consultation ensures that the sample phase runs smoothly — no surprises later, but clear agreements in advance.
Step 3 — Sample costs (per style)
Before you go into production, a sample is always made first. Sample costs are one-time per style and consist of:
- Pattern development — €120 to €260 per style depending on complexity
- Sewing sample — €70 to €180 per style based on hourly wage (€44.50/hour)
- Correction sample — €50 to €150 if adjustments are needed
For a collection of 3 styles, you can realistically expect €500 to €1,500 in sample costs. The final price for production is determined after approval of the sample.
Step 4 — Production costs and unit prices
The unit price is determined by labor time. The more complex the garment, the more hours, the higher the price. These are realistic indications for cut & sew production in the Netherlands, excluding fabrics and materials:
| Type of garment | Unit price indication | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Simple T-shirt | €12 – €22 | Few seams, stretch fabric |
| Sweater / hoodie | €22 – €45 | More construction, pockets, bands |
| Pants (basics) | €24 – €55 | Depending on pockets and waistband |
| Dress (simple) | €28 – €60 | Depending on construction and fabric |
| Coat / blazer | €45 – €110 | Lining, construction, details |
| Workwear (apron, uniform) | €20 – €60 | Depending on functionality |
| Tote bag / accessory | €8 – €20 | Simple construction, low labor time |
Minimum order quantity (MOQ) and the effect on the unit price
At Atelier Jungles, we work with a minimum order quantity of ±25–50 pieces per style. The higher the quantity, the lower the unit price — cutting and preparing becomes more efficient with larger numbers:
| Edition per style | Effect on unit price |
|---|---|
| 25–50 pieces | Base unit price |
| 50–100 pieces | 5–10% lower |
| 100–250 pieces | 10–20% lower |
| 250+ pieces | Custom quote |
Fabrics and materials (budgeted separately)
The unit prices are exclusive of fabric and materials. Those costs are additional. General indications per meter:
- Jersey (T-shirts, basics) — €4 to €10 per meter
- Sweater fabric — €8 to €16 per meter
- Woven cotton — €6 to €14 per meter
- Organic cotton — 20 to 40% more expensive than regular
- Recycled fibers — on average 15–30% more expensive
Concrete calculation example — 50 T-shirts
A realistic example for 50 pieces of one simple T-shirt style:
- Production consultation — €220
- Pattern development — €150
- Sample sewing — €100
- Production 50 pieces × €16 — €800
- Fabric 50 × 1.5m × €7 — €525
- Labels and finishing — €75
- Total — approx. €1,870 excluding VAT
- Cost price per unit — approx. €37
Excluding transport and branding. The actual price is determined after the production consultation and the sample phase.
When will you know the exact price?
The final unit price is determined after the production consultation and the sample phase. Only when the sample is ready can we accurately measure how many hours the production requires. We always provide a realistic estimate in advance so you know what to expect — no surprises later.
Do you want to know what clothing production costs for your specific design? Schedule a free introductory meeting or read more about our complete clothing production process in the Netherlands.
