Denim manufacturing in China ranges from mass-market basics to genuinely premium selvedge denim produced in specialized mills. Understanding fabric weight and wash technique options helps you brief factories clearly and avoid mismatched expectations.
Denim Weight and What It Means for Your Product
Denim weight is measured in ounces per square yard. Lightweight denim (under 10oz) suits warm-climate or fashion-forward stretch jeans; mid-weight (11-13oz) is the standard for most commercial denim; heavyweight (14oz+) is used for raw/selvedge denim aimed at durability-focused or heritage-style positioning.
Wash and Distressing Techniques
Stone washing, enzyme washing, and sandblasting each produce different fade patterns and hand-feel. Note that sandblasting for distressed effects has been restricted or banned in some regions due to silicosis health risks to factory workers — confirm your factory uses laser distressing or safer alternatives if this matters for your supply chain ethics positioning.
MOQs for Custom Denim Programs
Using a factory’s existing fabric and wash program with your own labeling typically starts around 500-1,000 units per style/wash combination. Fully custom fabric development (a unique weave or stretch blend) usually requires mill minimums in the range of 3,000-5,000 meters, which translates to significantly higher unit commitments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What denim weight is best for everyday commercial jeans?
11-13oz mid-weight denim is the most common choice, balancing durability, comfort, and cost for general retail jean lines.
Is sandblasted distressed denim still commonly produced?
It’s been restricted in various regions due to worker health concerns; laser distressing has become the more common and safer alternative among responsible factories.
What’s a realistic MOQ for a small denim brand’s first order?
Using existing fabric and wash options with custom labeling, 500 units per style/wash is a reasonably achievable starting MOQ with many factories.
