Launching or scaling a fashion brand requires more than just great designs—it starts with finding the right clothing manufacturer. At Rad Sourcing, we’ve helped brands of all sizes navigate this decision, from emerging labels to established retailers. Understanding the different types of manufacturers can save you time, money, and headaches down the road.
1. Cut, Make, Trim (CMT) Manufacturers
CMT manufacturers focus on the essential steps: cutting fabric, assembling garments, and finishing them with trims. This option is best for brands that already have:
✔ Their own fabric and designs
✔ Established material suppliers
✔ Smaller production runs
💡 Rad Sourcing Case Study: We worked with a boutique streetwear brand that wanted more control over fabric sourcing. By partnering with a CMT manufacturer, they maintained their unique fabric selection while keeping production costs low.
2. Full Package Production (FPP) Manufacturers
For brands needing an all-in-one solution, FPP manufacturers handle everything, including:
✔ Design assistance
✔ Fabric sourcing
✔ Pattern making & grading
✔ Production & quality control
✔ Packaging and shipping
This option is great for startups or brands that want a seamless production experience. It removes the need for separate suppliers and streamlines the entire process.
💡 Rad Sourcing Tip: If you’re launching a new line and need expert guidance, an FPP manufacturer is often the best choice. We’ve helped brands go from concept to finished product without the hassle of managing multiple suppliers.
3. Private Label Clothing Manufacturers
Private label manufacturing allows brands to customize pre-designed clothing with their own labels. Benefits include:
✔ Faster turnaround times
✔ Lower minimum order quantities (MOQs)
✔ Access to trending designs without extensive development
💡 Rad Sourcing Insight: Many growing brands use private label manufacturing to test new products without heavy investment in custom designs. We’ve seen businesses scale quickly by leveraging this approach.
4. Custom Clothing Manufacturers
For brands that need full creative control, custom manufacturers offer:
✔ Unique, made-to-order designs
✔ Exclusive patterns and styles
✔ Custom branding and detailing
This is ideal for luxury fashion, high-end streetwear, or niche apparel brands that want to stand out in a crowded market.
💡 Rad Sourcing Case Study: A designer swimwear brand approached us looking for premium-quality materials and custom cuts. By partnering with the right custom manufacturer, we helped them achieve a signature look that set them apart from competitors.
5. Sustainable & Ethical Manufacturers
More brands are prioritizing sustainability, and eco-friendly manufacturers focus on:
✔ Organic and recycled fabrics
✔ Ethical labor practices
✔ Low-waste and sustainable production methods
Look for manufacturers with certifications like:
🌱 GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard)
🤝 Fair Trade Certification
♻ OEKO-TEX for chemical-free textiles
💡 Rad Sourcing Tip: Sustainability isn’t just about materials—it’s also about responsible supply chains. We help brands find ethical factories that align with their values.
6. Domestic vs. Overseas Manufacturers
The decision to manufacture locally or overseas depends on your priorities:
✅ Domestic Manufacturing (USA, Canada, UK, EU)
✔ Higher quality control
✔ Faster shipping & production timelines
✔ Easier communication and IP protection
🌍 Overseas Manufacturing (China, India, Bangladesh, Vietnam)
✔ Lower production costs
✔ Access to a larger variety of fabrics & techniques
✔ Ability to scale with high-volume orders
💡 Rad Sourcing Case Study: A DTC fashion brand wanted premium quality but struggled with pricing in the U.S. We helped them find an ethical overseas factory with high standards and lower costs, striking the perfect balance.
Which Clothing Manufacturer is Right for You?
The best clothing manufacturer for your brand depends on factors like:
✅ Budget – Are you optimizing for cost or premium quality?
✅ Product Complexity – Do you need full-service production or just assembly?
✅ Turnaround Time – Do you need faster delivery or can you work with longer lead times?
Choosing the right manufacturer ensures a smoother production process, higher quality control, and better margins for your business.
Work with Rad Sourcing for Your Clothing Manufacturing Needs
At Rad Sourcing, we connect brands with the best clothing manufacturers for their needs—whether it’s private label, custom apparel, or sustainable sourcing. We make the process simple, ensuring high-quality, cost-effective production.
📩 Ready to start manufacturing? Contact us at www.radsourcing.com to bring your vision to life!