Field Study in Modern Apparel Manufacturing
Course Description
This 30-hour immersive field study provides hands-on exposure to the complete apparel manufacturing process through direct learning at UNYX Production Units. Designed for aspiring fashion entrepreneurs, product developers, and manufacturing professionals, the program emphasizes real-world experience in sample development, material sourcing, quality control, production management, and sustainability practices. Participants observe day-to-day factory operations, interact with industry experts, and gain practical insights into managing manufacturing workflows from concept to shipment.
Detailed Modules
Module 1:
- Introduction to Modern Apparel Manufacturing (3 hours)
- Overview of the apparel production ecosystem.
- Key departments and flow of factory operations.
- Role of technology, automation, and digital systems in production.
- Compliance, certifications, and global standards (ISO, SEDEX, WRAP).
Module 2:
- Fabric and Material Management (4 hours)
- Understanding fabric types, composition, and sourcing strategies.
- Material testing, GSM measurement, and shrinkage control.
- Fabric inspection and inventory tracking methods.
- Supplier evaluation and cost negotiation techniques.
Module 3:
- Pattern Making, Sampling, and Pre-Production (5 hours)
- Pattern development workflow: digital vs. manual.
- Proto, Fit, PP, and Size Set sampling stages.
- Marker planning, fabric consumption, and waste minimization.
- Co-ordination between design, sampling, and production teams.
Module 4:
- Production Floor Operations (8 hours)
- Production layout: line setup and efficiency optimization.
- Sewing line workflow and operator performance balancing.
- Inline and end-line quality control systems.
- Cutting, stitching, finishing, and packing demonstrations.
- Real-time factory walk-through with mentor-led explanations.
Module 5:
- Quality, Compliance, and Sustainability (4 hours)
- Quality Assurance standards and AQL inspection methods.
- Environmental and ethical compliance audits.
- Sustainable sourcing, waste management, and circular fashion initiatives.
- Case studies on sustainable manufacturing methods.
Module 6:
- Supply Chain, Export, and Business Management (6 hours)
- Production planning and order tracking.
- Costing, budgeting, and vendor communication.
- Documentation for domestic and export shipments (Invoices, Packing Lists, GST, Export Licenses).
- Integration of digital tools in manufacturing management (ERP, PLM).
- Mentorship session: Scaling from domestic production to export business.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the course, participants will be able to:
- Identify and analyze each stage of the apparel production process.
- Evaluate fabrics and raw materials for specific garment categories.
- Interpret sampling and technical documentation for production readiness.
- Apply quality control practices and operational efficiency methods.
- Understand factory compliance requirements and sustainability frameworks.
- Manage production planning, costing, and vendor coordination for small and large-scale orders.
Prerequisites
- Basic understanding of fashion design, textiles, or apparel business operations (recommended).
- Completion of a beginner-level fashion or product development course (preferred but optional).
- Strong interest in manufacturing, sourcing, or building a fashion brand.