How to Talk to a Factory (When You’re Just Starting Out)

The first email to a factory is intimidating because it feels like a test. It isn’t. Factories want prepared partners, not perfect ones.

What follows is what I wish someone had told me before I sent my first inquiry: what to say, what to attach, and what to leave out.

Your factory is your production partner. Not your design partner.

1. Be clear about who you are

Keep the intro short and specific. You’re not expected to be an expert. You do need to show you’re serious.

Include your name, your brand (if you have one), and the stage you’re at: sampling, tech pack ready, sourcing fabric.

Example: “I’m launching a small activewear line and am currently in development. I’m looking for a factory that can produce leggings and sports bras with low MOQs and clear communication.”

2. Say what you need

A vague “can you make this?” tells a factory nothing. Tell them:

• Type of product
• Quantity, or projected MOQs
• Timeline: a rough production window
• Services needed: cut and sew, full package, patternmaking

Example: “I’m looking to produce 150–200 units per style to start, with two styles in the first run. I’d like to sample in March and move to production in May.”

Do not rush them. You are not their only client, and a factory that feels rushed in the inquiry will pass on the work.

3. Attach what you have

Even an incomplete package is better than none:

• A tech pack (rough is fine)
• Flat sketches
• Fabric direction or sourcing progress
• Reference images

If you have none of these, do not send the email yet. A factory cannot solve clarity issues. Get the foundation right first. That is design work, not production work.

4. Common mistakes to avoid

• Asking “how much will this cost?” without any details
• Sounding casual or vague
• Mass-emailing thirty factories with the same message
• Making demands without doing the groundwork

5. End with a clear ask

Make it easy for them to say yes, or to point you somewhere better.

Example: “Would you be open to reviewing my tech pack and discussing sampling options? I’d like to understand if we’d be a good fit.”

A template you can adapt

Hi [Factory Name],

My name is [Your Name], and I’m starting a [type of brand] focused on [short brand vision]. I’m currently in development and looking for a factory that can produce [type of product] with low minimums.

I’ve attached my [tech pack/sketches/specs] for reference. I’m hoping to sample in [month] and move to production shortly after.

Please let me know if you’re open to working with small-batch brands, or if there’s someone else I should speak with.

Thanks, [Your Name] [Email] [Instagram/Website]

You don’t need a big budget or a polished deck to open the conversation. You need clarity, preparation, and respect for the factory’s time.

Being organized is what sets you apart. If you’re not there yet, that’s the work to do before the email goes out, and it’s the work I help founders through.