A practical explanation of OEM and ODM knitwear development routes for apparel brands and sourcing teams.
A practical explanation of OEM and ODM knitwear development routes for apparel brands and sourcing teams. This guide walks you through the manufacturing journey with Licheng Knitwear.
Get a free catalog or submit an RFQ today. Our team will respond within 24 hours.
OEM projects usually start with a buyer's design, tech pack or reference sample. The factory reviews the specification and confirms whether the yarn, gauge, measurements, trims and finishing method are practical for production. OEM is suitable when the brand already knows what it wants to develop.
ODM projects start from a factory sample direction, existing construction idea or product concept. The buyer can select a base style and adjust material, color, fit, labels and packaging. This is useful for buyers who need faster sample direction or do not yet have a complete tech pack.
Both OEM and ODM projects need a clear requirement review. Buyers should share target market, quantity, price direction, sample deadline, packaging needs and any compliance expectations. This review helps the factory recommend the right development route.
After the plan is confirmed, the factory develops the sample. The sample should be checked for fit, measurements, texture, color, workmanship, label placement and overall appearance. Any correction should be specific and measurable so the next sample can be improved efficiently.
Bulk production should begin only after sample approval, yarn and trim confirmation, label artwork approval and packing instruction confirmation. This reduces the risk of quality issues or shipment delays during the final stage.
A clear development flow keeps samples, costing and bulk production aligned before your order moves forward.
Share your idea, tech packs and requirements.
We recommend yarns and create an initial direction.
Develop samples for fit, look and function.
Bulk production with stage-based quality control.
QC checks help confirm workmanship, measurements and packing.
Packing and delivery details are discussed by order.
The right yarn defines handfeel, performance and durability. Material choice can be adjusted by season, market and target price.
Wool, cotton, cashmere and silk directions
Wool blends, cotton blends and acrylic blends
Organic cotton and recycled fiber discussions
Merino, anti-pilling and functional yarn directions
From reference photos to tech packs and pattern review, our team helps turn ideas into a manufacturable knitwear direction.
Quality is not only one step in the process. It is checked throughout development and production.
20+
Years Experience
500+
Global Clients
98%
On-time Delivery
Plan each detail clearly before bulk production to reduce risk and improve buyer communication.
Plan each detail clearly before bulk production to reduce risk and improve buyer communication.
Plan each detail clearly before bulk production to reduce risk and improve buyer communication.
Cost and timeline depend on yarn, gauge, construction, color count, quantity and packaging requirements.
MOQ
Reviewed by style, yarn and project
Sample Lead Time
Confirmed after material and gauge review
Bulk Lead Time
Confirmed by quantity and production plan
Use these practical points to make sampling and bulk production easier to manage.
Clear Tech Packs
Realistic Timelines
Open Communication
Plan Future Reorders
