What is a “Tech Pack”?

Does your company use a “tech pack”? It is one of the most crucial tools to developing your product and making the communication process more efficient between you and your manufacturer, yet many new designers overlook this vital step. You may be asking what a tech pack is, why you need it, or how to make one. Let’s break it down:

What is a tech pack?

A tech pack is an informative sheet that designers create to communicate with a manufacturer all the necessary components needed to construct a product. Typically designers will include measurements, materials, colors, trim, hardware, grading, labels, tags, etc. Any crucial aspect of your design needs to be described in your tech pack. The more detailed a tech pack is, the less room there is for error.

 Screen Shot 2015-08-10 at 1.54.47 PM

Academy CTA

Why do you need a tech pack?

With a tech pack, designers are more likely to get a sample or product made correctly with minimal errors. Supplying a tech pack to a manufacturer gives them a concrete guideline to your product, so without one it can be difficult for manufacturers to translate your idea into an actual product. It also allows the manufacturer to make a product without having to refer back to the designer several times. When creating products, manufacturers can reference the tech pack to make sure they aren’t overlooking any aspect of your design.

How do you make a tech pack?

Designers can use Adobe Illustrator to create a tech pack, or work with a technical designer. When creating a tech pack with Adobe Illustrator, you can export them into a PDF  to send digitally or add to your brand project on Maker’s Row. Designers can also find templates online that can format the layout for you.

Related Reading:  Counting Backwards to Create a Production Timeline That Works

Interested in making a tech pack for your brand? Take a look at these 28 companies on Maker’s Row who can help you out:

Technical Designers and Pattern Makers

Special thanks to Liz Long and Ryan Clott for the great advice on tech packs!