Use words that describe the actual decision.
A pattern, a yarn effect and a material can coexist in the same cloth. Keep those attributes separate when making a brief.
Terms at the sample table.
Scroll the table horizontally on small screens.
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Motif | The recognisable visible pattern element. |
| Pattern repeat | The interval at which the complete design recurs along and across the cloth. |
| Warp | The lengthwise yarn direction in a woven cloth. |
| Weft | The crosswise yarn direction in a woven cloth. |
| GSM | Grams per square metre, a weight-per-area unit. |
| Usable width | The width available for the agreed cutting task, distinct from total width when edges are excluded. |
| Bouclé | A looped yarn or surface effect, not a fixed fibre composition. |
| Slub | Local yarn thickness variation that contributes to texture. |
| Handfeel | The tactile character assessed with a physical sample. |
| Drape | How the cloth hangs and responds in the intended garment task. |
| Ground | The principal background colour role. |
| Accent | A smaller contrasting or highlighting colour role. |
| Sample cutting | A piece requested to support a defined review task. |
| Approval reference | The specifically identified sample and revision representing agreed decisions. |
| MOQ | Minimum order quantity; confirm its style, colour and process basis for the actual programme. |
| Lead time | Timing to be agreed with the actual scope, dependencies and conditions. |
Keep units and identity attached.
A measurement needs a unit and direction. An approval needs a sample identifier and version. Technical-looking words without those details do not make an instruction precise.
Ask when terminology is ambiguous.
Include a reference photograph, sample or sketch if the name may be interpreted differently. Describe the actual appearance and garment task in plain language alongside the technical term.
A precise reference line.
- Actual sample identifier
- Motif and surface as separate attributes
- Known composition and weight units
- Usable width basis
- Measured repeat in two directions
- Approval version and open questions
Apply the glossary.
Use a measurable reference and a structured brief.
Separate Weave, Pattern and Yarn Effect
Map a visual description to technical questions.
Read the guideHow to measure and describe a tweed pattern repeat
Record repeat dimensions and sample coverage.
Read the guideHow to write a useful tweed fabric specification
Prepare a tweed development brief with garment, motif, colour roles, confirmed requirements, targets, sampling needs and commercial questions.
Read the guide