Material approval · TGM KNOWLEDGE BASE
Lab Dips, Strike-Offs and Colour Approval
Colour and artwork need controlled approval before bulk processing.
What brands need to know
A lab dip is a small dyeing submission used to approve a target shade, commonly against a Pantone reference. A strike-off tests printed artwork, colour, scale and technique on the intended fabric. Embroidery swatches serve a similar purpose for thread, density and dimensions. Colour must be viewed under agreed lighting because fibre and finish affect appearance. Approval should identify the submission code and date. Digital screens are useful for communication but should not replace physical colour approval for critical projects.
Production checklist
- Use an agreed colour standard
- Specify viewing light
- Approve coded physical submissions
- Keep one approved reference
How this affects your quotation
A reliable quotation depends on the final design, construction, fabric, GSM, colours, size range, quantity per style and colour, branding, packing, delivery country and target date. Commercial feasibility and material availability are reviewed before a price is confirmed.