“How many do I need to order?” is usually the first question a new brand asks us. For custom woven labels the answer is typically 1,000 pieces per design, and as the manufacturer running the looms ourselves we can explain exactly where that number comes from and how to plan around it.
Once you see the logic, you can design your label set so that every piece you order ends up sewn into a garment.
What counts as one design
The minimum applies per design, not per order. A design is defined by four things: the artwork, the thread colours, the weaving width and the finished size. Change one of them and the loom needs a new set-up, so it becomes a separate design.
| Scenario | Number of designs |
|---|---|
| One logo, one size, one colourway | One |
| Same logo, black on ivory and ivory on black | Two, because thread colours change |
| Same logo at 15 mm and 20 mm width | Two, because weaving width changes |
| Same woven label with a different fold | Often one, because folding happens after weaving; ask us for your case |
| Size tabs S to XL sharing base, colours and dimensions | Often one run split across sizes |
Why looms work this way
Programming the jacquard head
Each design is translated into a weaving file that tells the loom which warp threads to lift for every pass of weft. Preparing, testing and adjusting tension and density takes the same time for 300 labels as for 3,000.
Setting up threads
The warp, which usually forms the background colour, is set before production, and weft yarns in your colours are loaded on the machine. For a very short run, the set-up time outweighs the weaving time.
One design per run
Labels are woven as long ribbons, often several side by side. A loom position weaves the same design until the run is complete, and the first metres are checked against your approved proof before cutting, folding and packing begin.
Minimums across other label types
Woven labels are not the only product with a minimum. Typical starting points in our range:
- Woven size labels: usually 1,000 pieces per design, often split across sizes.
- Printed care labels: usually 1,000 pieces per design.
- Hang tags: usually 1,000 pieces per design.
- Silicone, leather and metal labels: confirmed per project, as they depend on mould or tool making.
Every quote states the exact figure for your specification.
One order, several designs
A launch order might include a main neck label, a small hem flag and a set of size tabs. Each has its own minimum, but we produce and ship them together. That keeps planning simple and colours consistent across the set.
Planning strategies for new and growing brands
Build one universal brand label
Use a single main label across all products and move product-specific information onto printed care labels or hang tags.
Keep sizes off the main label
A separate size label allows the brand label to stay identical across the whole size range.
Choose a colourway that works everywhere
Instead of one label for light garments and another for dark, look for a neutral combination that suits both. Many brands find one well-chosen pairing covers the entire collection.
Think in seasons, not drops
Labels are small, light and do not expire. A thousand neck labels fit in a box the size of a shoebox. Order once and use them across two or three collections.
Merge near-identical variants
Before requesting a quote, list every variant you think you need. We frequently find that two or three can become one design without any visible loss.
Reorders made simple
For every approved design we keep the weaving file and colour specification. A reorder needs only a quantity confirmation, with no new proof, and the colours match the previous run. Plan reorders when stock reaches roughly a quarter of the original quantity, so production lead time never holds up sewing.
Samples before you commit
You approve a digital proof first. If you want to check thread colours, feel and edges, ask for a physical sample before full production. Production typically takes 10 to 20 working days after approval, with delivery across the EU.
A quick planning worksheet
- List every garment style and the labels each needs.
- Mark which labels can be shared across styles.
- Merge variants that differ only slightly.
- Estimate usage for the next two or three seasons.
- Send the list to [email protected] and we return a proposal per design.
See constructions and finishes on our woven labels page.
What is the usual minimum for custom woven labels?
Typically 1,000 pieces per design. A design is defined by artwork, thread colours, width and finished size, and the exact figure is confirmed in every quote.
Does a different fold create a new design?
Often not, because folding and cutting happen after weaving. We confirm this for each specific case.
Can I combine several designs in one order?
Yes. Each design has its own minimum, but all of them are produced and shipped together.
Do reorders need a new proof?
No. We keep the weaving file and colour specification for approved designs, so a reorder only needs a quantity confirmation.
How can a small brand reach the minimum easily?
Use one universal brand label across all products, keep sizes on separate tabs and choose a colourway that works on every garment.
