Host Heather Zager talks all about tech packs, spec sheets, and patterns in today’s episode. She explains the differences between each one and the function each one performs. A spec sheet is short for a specification sheet. The single difference between it and a tech pack is that a spec sheet is just one page. A tech pack - or technical package or technical specification package - is essentially an instruction manual with all the information needed to create a sewn product. A pattern is a paper pattern used for sewing a product.

Heather goes into great detail about what a tech pack could and should include. The summary of the points she discusses is:

1. A cover page or an overview page.
2. Fabrications page.
3. Pattern layout page by fabrication.
4. Bill of materials
5. Pattern pieces list, also known as a cutters must or a pattern parts list.
6. A sequence of construction, also known as the order of operations.
7. Several pages of annotations which are callouts:
   1. Just stitch types, just the fabrications, and just colorways.
   2. Possibly a close-up or a more detailed illustration.
8. Supplier information.
9. You might also include packaging information.
10. A space for special notes and another space for version updates.

The possible variations and trade-offs in information included in tech packs are explained by Heather and she breaks down exactly how a pattern works, when spec sheets are useful, and what other episodes of her podcast will explain certain pieces of information in greater detail. Heather’s knowledge and expertise help to make the process of designing and manufacturing sewn goods easier to understand and less daunting to attempt. 

About Heather Zager | MADE Apparel Services Founder and Owner

Heather Zager found her calling when she signed up for a beginning pattern-making course and realized she had a passion for technical design. She subsequently enrolled in the Apparel Design and Development program at Seattle Central College and graduated two years later with her Associate of Applied Science Degree.

After graduation, she began working with Meta assisting in developing and designing augmented and virtual reality wearable tech gear. In 2020, MADE Apparel Services was born with the idea of helping makers, inventors and designers bring their own sewn product ideas to manufacture. Since then, she has worked with various businesses such as Santa’s Tailor, Feathered Friends, Wolfpack Gear and Classic Accessories, helping them achieve their goals in design, development, pattern making, sewn construction and manufacture.

Today, Heather continues to grow her knowledge and share her experiences with others to bring their visions to reality.

__

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Episode 8: Concept to Customer Part 4 - Preparing for Manufacture
• MADE Apparel Services: Sample Tech Pack

__

Contact Heather Zager | MADE Apparel Services: 

• Website: MADEApparelServices.com
• Facebook: MADEApparelServices
• Instagram: MADEApparelServices
• Linkedin: MADEApparelServices