Standard MOQ is typically 150 pcs per style / colour. Selected library trial programmes may start from 100 pcs per colour, subject to fabric availability. Orders below 100 pcs / style / colour carry a combined 15% surcharge for extra fabric scattered-cut costs and additional generation fees. Custom fabric typically ~500 m / colour.

How much is a sample and how long does it take?

Library samples start from US$45 per garment piece (sets charged by piece count). Custom patterns, prints, trims and fabric development are quoted separately. Typical lead 7–9 working days after confirmation. Eligible library sample fees may be credited against a confirmed bulk order, subject to the quoted sample terms. Courier charges are excluded and never credited.

When does the bulk clock start?

Typical bulk lead time is 25–30 days after PPS (pre-production sample) approval. Deposit is taken after PPS sign-off.

What are your payment terms?

30% deposit after PPS sign-off and 70% after passed final AQL. FOB Shenzhen or DDP on request.

Home / Insights / Pilling & Colourfastness Tests Activewear Buyers Should Spec

Fabrics & Compliance · 7 min read · 2026-09-09

Pilling and Colourfastness — Tests Buyers Should Spec

Pilling and colour loss destroy reviews. Spec methods early, then check sample-to-bulk consistency on the approved fabric lot.

Quick answers

Write pilling method + grade into the brief.
Write colourfastness methods for wash / rub / perspiration (and chlorine for swim).
Approve a fabric lot, not only a garment photo.

Pilling control for leggings

Hand, yarn, finish and garment abrasion zones all matter. Brushed vs non-brushed behaves differently — see also brushed vs terry for knit programmes. For yoga opacity/squat gates, use squat-proof testing.

Colourfastness testing map

Programme	Prioritise
Yoga / studio	Wash + rub + perspiration
Swim / pool	Chlorinated water (ISO 105 E03 class) + light
Tennis / outdoor	Wash + light + rub

Swim lab narrative: chlorine-resistant swimwear fabric tests.

Sample vs bulk fabric consistency

Keep the same mill code, GSM window, finish and lot references from proto → PPS → bulk. If the mill changes lot, re-check pilling and colourfastness — do not assume.

ZIESHINE path

Fabric tests · named bases · yoga manufacture.

Next steps

Open the manufacture hub for OEM / private-label programmes.
Browse related products in the library.
Review the matching fabric path.
Download buyer checklists (deal sheet / capacity / cert pack).
Submit a development brief — Export desk replies within 12 h.

Related styles

FAQ

How do I prevent leggings pilling?

Choose the right hand and finish, avoid abrasive trims in test, and lock yarn lot + finish before bulk.

Which colourfastness tests matter?

Wash, rub (dry/wet), perspiration; swim also needs chlorinated-water fastness.

Why did bulk pill more than the sample?

Often a different yarn lot, finish, or construction tweak — demand sample vs bulk fabric consistency checks.

Do brushed fabrics pill more?

They can show wear differently; spec pilling grades for the actual finish you will buy.