OEM/ODM Knitwear Process
A practical explanation of OEM and ODM knitwear development routes for apparel brands and sourcing teams.
1. Overview
A practical explanation of OEM and ODM knitwear development routes for apparel brands and sourcing teams. This guide walks you through the manufacturing journey with Licheng Knitwear.
Buyer Guide Content
OEM knitwear process
OEM projects usually start with a buyer's design, tech pack or reference sample. The factory reviews the specification and confirms whether the yarn, gauge, measurements, trims and finishing method are practical for production. OEM is suitable when the brand already knows what it wants to develop.
ODM knitwear process
ODM projects start from a factory sample direction, existing construction idea or product concept. The buyer can select a base style and adjust material, color, fit, labels and packaging. This is useful for buyers who need faster sample direction or do not yet have a complete tech pack.
Requirement review
Both OEM and ODM projects need a clear requirement review. Buyers should share target market, quantity, price direction, sample deadline, packaging needs and any compliance expectations. This review helps the factory recommend the right development route.
Sample development
After the plan is confirmed, the factory develops the sample. The sample should be checked for fit, measurements, texture, color, workmanship, label placement and overall appearance. Any correction should be specific and measurable so the next sample can be improved efficiently.
Bulk order confirmation
Bulk production should begin only after sample approval, yarn and trim confirmation, label artwork approval and packing instruction confirmation. This reduces the risk of quality issues or shipment delays during the final stage.
2. The Custom Knitwear Process
A clear development flow keeps samples, costing and bulk production aligned before your order moves forward.
1. Inquiry
Share your idea, tech packs and requirements.
2. Design & Yarn Selection
We recommend yarns and create an initial direction.
3. Sampling
Develop samples for fit, look and function.
4. Production
Bulk production with stage-based quality control.
3. Materials & Yarn Selection
The right yarn defines handfeel, performance and durability. Material choice can be adjusted by season, market and target price.
Natural Fibers
Wool, cotton, cashmere and silk directions
Blended Yarns
Wool blends, cotton blends and acrylic blends
Responsible Yarn Options
Organic cotton and recycled fiber discussions
Performance Yarns
Merino, anti-pilling and functional yarn directions
4. Design & Development
From reference photos to tech packs and pattern review, our team helps turn ideas into a manufacturable knitwear direction.
- Design consultation
- Tech pack and specification support
- Pattern and structure review
- Jacquard, intarsia and custom detailing
Quality is not only one step in the process. It is checked throughout development and production.
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Years Experience
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5. Sampling & Approval
Plan each detail clearly before bulk production to reduce risk and improve buyer communication.
- Proto sample
- Fit sample
- Pre-production sample
6. Production & Quality Control
Plan each detail clearly before bulk production to reduce risk and improve buyer communication.
- Knitting, linking and finishing
- In-line and final inspection
- Stage-based QC process
7. Packaging & Delivery
Plan each detail clearly before bulk production to reduce risk and improve buyer communication.
8. Costs & Lead Times
Cost and timeline depend on yarn, gauge, construction, color count, quantity and packaging requirements.
MOQ
Reviewed by style, yarn and project
Sample Lead Time
Confirmed after material and gauge review
Bulk Lead Time
Confirmed by quantity and production plan
9. Best Practices for Success
Use these practical points to make sampling and bulk production easier to manage.
Clear Tech Packs
