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Lab 05

Fabric Sample & Prototype Workshop

From specification to finished sample — developed, proven, and ready for production

Seekingtex fabric prototype workshop

Where specification becomes reality

A fabric specification, no matter how detailed, cannot reveal how a textile will actually perform until it is produced. That is why our Fabric Sample & Prototype Workshop is designed to translate specifications into physical samples as quickly and accurately as possible. Every new Seekingtex fabric — and every significant custom development — passes through this workshop before production tooling is committed.

The workshop is fully equipped for small-lot weaving, knitting, dyeing, and finishing. This integrated approach cuts prototype lead time to 15-20 working days from specification, compared to the industry norm of 30-45 days. When your application demands a specialised solution, we can move from concept to validated sample in under three weeks.

Workshop capabilities

WorkstationEquipmentPurpose
Sample weavingMini rapier loom, sample dobby loomSmall-lot woven fabric samples for evaluation
Sample knittingCircular knitting machine, flatbed knitterKnit fabric samples and structure development
Dyeing & finishingLaboratory dyeing machine, padder, stenter frameColor development, finish application, fixation
Testing stationPortable tensile tester, thickness gauge, balanceIn-process quality verification

The prototype journey — step by step

  1. Specification handover — The fabric specification (yarn type, construction, finish, target properties) is formally reviewed. Any manufacturing concerns are flagged and resolved before production begins.
  2. Sample production — Yarn is prepared and woven or knitted according to specification. Initial greige fabric is inspected for construction accuracy.
  3. Finishing & dyeing — Fabric is processed through required finishing steps: scouring, dyeing, drying, and chemical application.
  4. Quality testing — Sample undergoes tensile testing, GSM verification, color measurement, and dimensional stability check.
  5. Client review — Sample and test report are submitted for client approval. Feedback incorporated into final specification.
  6. Production release — Upon approval, the specification is formalized and released for bulk production.

Custom prototyping for unique applications

The Prototype Workshop is where we solve the problems that standard fabrics cannot address. Recent examples include:

Client involvement

We encourage our clients to review sample submissions at key milestones during development — particularly the initial strike-off and the finished sample. Your feedback during these stages is invaluable in fine-tuning the fabric before it enters production.

Start your fabric development project

Tell us about the fabric you need and we will propose a development plan.

Contact our development team