Case Study: Custom Sleeping Bonnet for a Cycling Team in Ireland
Source:Sleeping Bonnet /
Time:2026-09-18
Sleeping Bonnet for a Cycling Team in Ireland
A Cycling Team approached us with a sleeping bonnet requirement for Ireland. The brief was specific: a defined look, a hard launch date and a unit cost that had to survive shipping and duty. This case study records what was specified, what went wrong in sampling and how the bulk order was delivered.
The challenge
- Inconsistent sizing between production runs
- Suppliers who disappear once the deposit is paid
- Packaging that arrives crushed and unsellable
What we specified
| Product | Sleeping Bonnet |
|---|---|
| Client type | A Cycling Team |
| Market | Ireland |
| Order volume | 3,000 pieces across 6 colourways |
| Base fabric | Selvedge Denim |
| Decoration | Embossing |
| Size range | XS-3XL |
| Sampling rounds | 2 |
| Delivery window | 12 weeks from PO to ex-factory |
How it was resolved
- We rebuilt the tech pack around Selvedge Denim and locked shrinkage allowance before grading.
- Decoration was moved to Embossing after strike-off tests showed better wash durability.
- A pre-production sample was approved and retained as the golden reference.
- Production ran with in-line inspection and a mid-run photo report.
- Cartons were packed to the client's own barcode and size ratio specification.
Result
- 3,000 pieces delivered inside the 12-week window.
- Unit cost held within 4.5% of the original quotation.
- Return rate linked to fit or workmanship stayed under 1.5%.
- The specification is now on file, so reorders reproduce the approved sample.
What we would repeat
Keep one process owner on both sides. Most delays come from hand-offs, not from machines.
Planning something similar?
Send us your tech pack or even a rough sketch — we will come back with fabric options, a costed sample plan and a realistic production calendar.
