Case Study: Custom Stretchy Knit Swaddle for a National Retail Chain in China
Source:Stretchy Knit Swaddle /
Time:2026-09-18
Stretchy Knit Swaddle for a National Retail Chain in China
A National Retail Chain approached us with a stretchy knit swaddle requirement for China. 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
- Color drift between lab dips and bulk fabric
- Unclear responsibility when a defect shows up after washing
What we specified
| Product | Stretchy Knit Swaddle |
|---|---|
| Client type | A National Retail Chain |
| Market | China |
| Order volume | 500 pieces across 2 colourways |
| Base fabric | Viscose |
| Decoration | DTG Digital Printing |
| Size range | XS-3XL |
| Sampling rounds | 3 |
| Delivery window | 12 weeks from PO to ex-factory |
How it was resolved
- We rebuilt the tech pack around Viscose and locked shrinkage allowance before grading.
- Decoration was moved to DTG Digital Printing 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
- 500 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 1.0%.
- 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?
Book a 20-minute call with our merchandising team and get a written quotation within 48 hours.
