KNITWEAR CLOTHING MANUFACTURERS UK
At Clothing Manufacturers UK, quality is at the core of everything we do. Our experienced team of artisans and technicians work diligently to ensure that every piece of knitwear we produce meets the highest standards. From the selection of premium materials to the final finishing touches, our meticulous attention to detail guarantees products that are not only stylish but also durable and comfortable.
ADVANTAGES OF LOCAL PRODUCTION
Partnering with a UK-based manufacturer like us offers numerous advantages:
- FASTER LEAD TIMES: Local production significantly reduces the time it takes to bring products to market. This agility allows us to respond swiftly to customer demands and market trends. In fact, brands that utilise local manufacturers can expect lead times to be reduced by up to 50% compared to overseas production.
- ACCESSIBLE CUSTOMER SUPPORT: Being based in the UK means that our clients benefit from clear and direct communication. Our customer support team is readily available to assist with any inquiries or concerns, ensuring a smooth production process.
- QUALITY ASSURANCE: By manufacturing locally, we maintain strict quality control over our production processes. This oversight ensures that every garment meets our high standards before it reaches our clients.
WHAT TYPES OF KNITWEAR WE CAN MAKE
SWEATERS
We can create various styles, including crewnecks, turtlenecks, and V-necks. Crafted from high-quality yarn, these sweaters provide warmth and comfort, making them perfect for any season. The global market for sweaters is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.5%, reaching £34 billion by 2027, reflecting the increasing demand for knitwear.
CARDIGANS
Versatile and stylish, cardigans are ideal for layering. Available in various lengths and designs, they can be dressed up for formal occasions or worn casually for everyday wear. According to market research, the cardigan segment is witnessing a resurgence, with a projected growth rate of 3% annually.
DRESSES
Knit dresses combine comfort with style, offering a flattering fit for any body type. These dresses are a versatile addition to any wardrobe and are suitable for casual outings or more formal settings. The global knit dress market is anticipated to grow by 4.2% per year, driven by increasing demand for comfortable yet stylish clothing.
SCARVES
Our knitted scarves add a touch of elegance to any outfit. Made from soft, durable materials, they are perfect for keeping warm during the colder months while enhancing your overall look. The accessories market, including scarves, is projected to reach £25 billion by 2025, showcasing the importance of quality knitwear accessories.
PREMIUM MATERIALS, RESPONSIBLY SOURCED
MATERIAL OPTIONS
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We believe that the quality of our knitwear starts with the materials we choose. At Clothing Manufacturers UK, we offer a wide range of yarns and fibres, including:
WOOL
Renowned for its warmth and durability, wool is a staple in our knitwear collection. We source high-quality, British wool known for its superior insulation properties. The UK wool market is valued at approximately £1.6 billion, highlighting its significance in the textile industry.
CASHMERE
For those seeking luxury, our cashmere options provide unmatched softness and warmth. We are committed to sourcing cruelty-free cashmere, prioritising animal welfare. The global cashmere market is valued at around £1 billion, with demand steadily increasing.
COTTON
Soft and breathable, cotton yarns are perfect for lightweight knitwear. Our cotton is sourced from sustainable farms, ensuring a reduced environmental impact. In the UK alone, around 1.3 million tonnes of cotton are consumed annually, driving the need for sustainable sourcing.
ECO-FRIENDLY OPTIONS
We offer a selection of sustainable yarns, including organic cotton and recycled fibres. These materials are certified and adhere to strict eco-friendly practices, reflecting our commitment to sustainability.
ECO- FRIENDLY & SUSTAINABLE KNITWEAR FABRICS
At Clothing Manufacturers UK, we recognise the importance of sustainable fabrics in the knitwear industry. Our commitment to eco-friendly materials ensures that our products are stylish, comfortable, and environmentally responsible. Here’s a closer look at the sustainable fabrics we use in our knitwear production:
1. Organic Cotton
Organic cotton is a key fabric in our sustainable knitwear range. Grown without the use of harmful pesticides, herbicides, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs), organic cotton promotes healthier soil and biodiversity. This environmentally friendly option requires significantly less water than conventional cotton—up to 90% less—making it an ideal choice for eco-conscious consumers.
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- Benefits for Knitwear: Soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic, organic cotton is perfect for everyday wear, providing comfort against the skin. Its durability ensures that knitwear made from organic cotton lasts, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
2. Recycled Polyester
Recycled polyester, made from post-consumer plastic bottles, is a standout choice for sustainable knitwear. This fabric helps divert plastic waste from landfills and requires up to 76% less energy to produce compared to virgin polyester.
- Benefits for Knitwear: Recycled polyester is ideal for activewear and casual knitwear, offering excellent durability and moisture-wicki. It retains the same quality as virgin polyester while significantly lowering environmental impact, making it a popular choice in our collections.
3. Tencel™ (Lyocell)
Tencel™ is a sustainable fabric derived from the pulp of sustainably sourced eucalyptus trees. The production process employs a closed-loop system that recycles water and solvents, minimising waste, and environmental harm.
- Benefits for Knitwear: Tencel™ is renowned for its softness, breathability, and moisture management, making it a luxurious option for knitwear. It also has a beautiful drape, perfect for creating stylish and comfortable garments.
4. Hemp
Hemp is one of the most sustainable fibres available, as it grows quickly and requires minimal resources. It thrives without the need for synthetic pesticides or fertilizers and enriches the soil it’s grown in.
- Benefits for Knitwear: Hemp fibres are strong, durable, and naturally resistant to mould and UV light. This makes hemp an excellent option for knitwear designed for outdoor wear, offering longevity and protection.
5. Bamboo
Bamboo is a rapidly renewable resource that requires very little water and no pesticides. The fabric produced from bamboo has natural antibacterial properties and is incredibly soft, making it a comfortable choice for knitwear.
- Benefits for Knitwear: Bamboo’s moisture-wicking and thermal-regulating qualities enhance the wearability of knit garments, making them suitable for various climates. This versatility adds to its appeal as a sustainable knitwear option.
6. Linen
Linen, derived from flax plants, is one of the oldest fabrics used in textile production. Flax is a hardy crop that requires less water and pesticides compared to cotton, making linen a more sustainable alternative.
- Benefits for Knitwear: Linen is highly breathable and becomes softer with each wash, ensuring comfort and durability. Its natural texture adds a unique aesthetic to knitwear, appealing to consumers looking for distinctive and eco-friendly options.
7. Recycled Wool
Recycled wool is created from post-consumer wool garments, helping to reduce waste and the environmental impact associated with new wool production. This sustainable fabric retains the warmth and comfort of virgin wool.
- Benefits for Knitwear: Recycled wool is perfect for cosy knitwear, offering excellent thermal insulation. It allows brands to create stylish, warm garments while promoting circular fashion principles.
FROM CONCEPT TO CREATION: OUR MANUFACTURING PROCESS
At Clothing Manufacturers UK, we transform your creative ideas into tangible, high-quality garments through a meticulous and collaborative process. Here’s a step-by-step look at how we bring your loungewear concepts to life:
PATTERN MAKING & DEVELOPMENT
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A technical designer develops patterns for the knitwear, considering garment shape, fit, and construction.
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A sample is created using the selected yarn and knit techniques to evaluate design details, fit, and fabric behaviour.
YARN SOURCING
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Sourcing and procurement of yarn from approved suppliers, ensuring quality, colour matching, and availability for bulk production.
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Yarn testing is conducted to ensure the yarn is suitable for the intended knitwear design (e.g., durability, softness, shrinkage properties).
KNITTING SET-UP
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The appropriate knitting machines (flat-bed, circular, or automated) are set up according to the garment specifications.
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The sample is tested on the machine, adjusting tension, gauge, and stitch types for the desired outcome.
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Production begins with the creation of fabric panels that are knitted in the required dimensions and pattern.
GARMENT ASSEMBLEY
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The individual knitted panels (front, back, sleeves, etc.) are sewn together by workers.
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Finishing techniques such as linking, hand-stitching, or machine stitching are employed to assemble the garment.
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Trims, labels, and any additional elements (e.g., buttons, zips) are applied.
QUALITY CONTROL:
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Garments undergo finishing processes such as steam pressing or blocking to shape and smooth the fabric.
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Any loose threads are trimmed, and the garment is prepared for final quality check.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What types of knitwear products do you manufacture?​
We manufacture a wide range of knitwear products, including sweaters, cardigans, scarves, beanies, and knit dresses, tailored to meet your brand's needs.
Do you offer custom designs and private labelling for knitwear?
Yes, we offer extensive customisation options, including design modifications and private labelling services to reflect your brand identity.
What materials do you use for knitwear production?
We use a variety of premium materials, including wool, cotton, cashmere, and eco-friendly options, all responsibly sourced to ensure quality and sustainability.
Can you provide eco-friendly or sustainable knitwear options?
Absolutely! We offer a selection of sustainable materials, including organic cotton and recycled fibres, and adhere to eco-friendly practices throughout our manufacturing process.
What quality control measures do you have in place?
We implement rigorous quality control processes at every stage of production, ensuring that each garment meets our high standards before it reaches our clients.
Can you handle small batch production for start-ups?
Yes, we specialise in small batch production, making us an ideal partner for start-ups looking to establish their brand.
Are there any setup fees for custom knitwear orders?​
Setup fees may apply depending on the complexity of the designs and customisations requested. However, we strive to keep costs competitive and transparent.
