Advanced textile manufacturing involves intricate processes that take months or even years to master. It’s not surprising, then, that it’s tempting to outsource to China where manufacturing costs are lower and factories are more readily available. Here are some factors you need to consider before taking the leap into outsourcing advanced textile manufacturing in China.
1) Do you know what advanced textiles are?
There are several different definitions for advanced textiles, but there is no one strict definition. In general, advanced textiles incorporate technology in some way. Whether that’s a high-tech fabric or something as simple as using computer programming software to create new designs, advanced textiles are made with technology and engineering at their core. Another common theme among advanced textiles is sustainability. The basic premise of many advanced fabrics is that they use less energy, water and other resources than traditional fabrics – which means you can do your part for the environment while saving money on manufacturing costs. As it turns out, many sustainable materials happen to be more attractive, stronger and longer lasting than non-sustainable ones – which means they’re also highly valued by consumers worldwide.
2) How outsourcing helps in advanced textile manufacturing?
If your business is expanding, you might think about looking into outsourcing as a way to scale up without breaking bank. For example, Chinese manufacturers can help you develop new products or redesign existing products at a much faster pace than if you had internal staff do it. In addition, workers overseas are often highly skilled and may have specialized knowledge that your domestic employees lack. Take advantage of advanced textile manufacturing services. for example, not many US companies have developed real expertise with 3D-printed textiles — even fewer have mastered sublimation print on performance fabrics and garments — but if you’re seeking quick turnaround on small-batch orders and customized designs, outsourcing advanced textiles manufacturing could be a game changer for your company.
3) Is it possible to outsource manufacturing of advanced textile to China?
Yes, it is very possible to outsource advanced textile manufacturing to China and it’s been done for decades. But you need to know what you’re doing or you could end up with a massive headache on your hands. For example, if you’re outsourcing a fabric printing project (or any other type of apparel-related work), be sure that your Chinese manufacturer knows how to print on fabric (many don’t). If they don’t have experience with your product type, make sure they’ll do their research before accepting your order. In addition, ask them if they can provide samples of their previous work so that you can see what quality level you should expect from them.
4) How can advanced textile technology can help with manufacturing your product?
You’ll probably want to limit your search to advanced textile manufacturing technology that is relevant and applicable for a specific type of product. For example, if you are developing a new fabric or texture for apparel, any company that specializes in weaving advanced fabrics will probably be able to help. It’s important that you find someone who specializes because although some advanced textiles can be knitted and manufactured via standard machinery, many fabrics are produced by knitting thread together one at a time. When choosing which fabric manufacturer (if any) you want to work with, make sure they have experience creating textiles using high-tech machinery before getting into your project details!
If you need to, consider bringing in an expert who can verify whether or not your fabric meets quality standards and is feasible for mass production. If your garment design requires technical textiles that no one has ever made before, try reaching out to manufacturers specializing in research and development with experience; chances are good they’ve created prototypes similar to what you’re looking for.
5) Why choose fabrics with special characteristics instead of common fabrics?
Fabric with special characteristics can better serve your product than that with common fabrics, as it makes your product more functional. When selecting fabric for a particular purpose, it is important to first determine what characteristics are needed from that fabric. Certain fabrics can be made of different materials. Fabric can be made from natural fibers such as cotton, linen, wool or silk; and synthetic fibers such as nylon or polyester. Synthetic fibers are used because they are man-made and thus far easier to manufacture into specific desired patterns than natural fibers.
In addition, there are also blends of both that result in unique fabrics with properties that suit certain applications better than others. The choice of material depends on many factors including cost, comfort, durability and aesthetics. For example, satin (rayon) has a smooth surface which makes it ideal for apparel like dresses or blouses. Satin is often used in bridal gowns because its slippery surface allows clothing to glide easily over other garments.
6) What should you consider when choosing an advanced textile manufacturer in China?
It is estimated that labor costs have increased by around 40% year on year. This figure includes workers, machinery and industrial buildings as well as land and raw materials. Some advanced textile manufacturers have been faced with a choice: either pass these substantial increases on to customers or reduce their workforces. In order for companies to keep up with market demands they must invest heavily into innovation processes and production equipment, which can be an extremely costly process!
C2W takes pride in our highly skilled workforce, many of whom are qualified engineers that work at some of our clients’ sites worldwide. We ensure employees receive regular training on all aspects of textile manufacturing, from design software through to advanced embroidery techniques including PFDs(Prepared for Dyeing) / digital printing / sublimation processes. With our 16 years of manufacturing experience in China and our bilingual in-house team, we can assure you smooth process of advanced textile manufacturing. Contact us if interested!
