Custom Knitwear Design: How to Turn Your Sketches Into Samples

Turning your design ideas into finished knitwear samples is an exciting process. Here is how to navigate it successfully. This guide walks through the custom design process from sketch to sample.

Step 1: Design Communication

What We Need

• Sketches: Hand drawings or CAD illustrations
• Reference images: Photos of similar garments
• Mood board: Colors, textures, inspiration
• Tech pack: Detailed specifications (if available)

The More You Share, The Better

Even rough sketches communicate direction. Don’t wait for perfect drawings — share ideas early and refine through discussion.

Step 2: Technical Translation

Once we understand your design, our team translates it into technical specifications:

• Gauge selection: Based on desired fabric weight and drape
• Yarn selection: Fiber, count, and color matching
• Stitch structure: Pattern programming for machines
• Construction method: Fully fashioned vs. cut and sew

Step 3: Yarn and Color Matching

Color Options

• PANTONE matching: We match to your specified colors
• Yarn card selection: Choose from our standard yarn library
• Custom dyeing: For unique colors (larger minimums apply)

Yarn Library

We maintain a library of commonly used yarns for quick sampling:

• Cotton (combed, organic, recycled)
• Merino wool and lambswool
• Acrylic and blends
• Cashmere and luxury fibers

Step 4: Sample Production (7-10 Days)

Stage 1: Pattern Programming

Your design is converted into machine instructions using computerized design systems.

Stage 2: Sample Knitting

Garment pieces are knitted on our partner factory machines.

Stage 3: Linking and Assembly

Pieces are joined using specialized linking machines for clean seams.

Stage 4: Finishing

Washing, steaming, and pressing to achieve final dimensions and hand feel.

Stage 5: Quality Check

Your sample is inspected against specifications before delivery.

Step 5: Sample Review

Check These Points

1. Fit and measurements: Compare to spec sheet
2. Fabric hand feel: Does it match expectations?
3. Color accuracy: Against PANTONE reference
4. Stitch quality: Consistent tension and pattern
5. Overall appearance: Does it match your vision?

Providing Feedback

Be specific in your revision requests:

• "Shorten sleeve by 2cm" (not "make sleeves shorter")
• "Soften hand feel, add enzyme wash" (not "make it softer")
• "Lighten color to PANTONE 12-4303" (not "make it lighter")

Step 6: Revisions and Final Approval

Most designs require 1-2 sampling rounds:

• First sample: Validates design direction
• Second sample: Fine-tunes fit and finish
• Third sample: Rare, usually for complex designs only

Common Design Requests and Solutions

”I want a chunky knit but lightweight”

Solution: Use hollow-core yarn or loose tension at 5GG-7GG

”I want a smooth, refined look”

Solution: Fine gauge (12GG-14GG) with tightly twisted yarn

”I want an oversized fit but not too heavy”

Solution: Relaxed tension on 7GG with lightweight yarn

”I want colorblocking without bulk”

Solution: Intarsia knitting creates clean color transitions

Our Custom Design Service

Our ODM team works with emerging and established brands to develop exclusive knitwear collections. From initial concept through production, we manage every step.

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Ready to turn your sketches into samples? Contact our design team.