You want to start your own clothing brand, but finding an affordable knitwear manufacturer is challenging. You need options that provide quality knitwear at prices you can afford. Many clothing manufacturers claim to offer low prices for startups, but you want one that understands the needs of new brands. Perhaps you require a custom clothing manufacturer with straightforward policies. You can discover knitwear options that align with your style, budget, and brand. These clothing selections will help you grow and gain visibility in the knitwear market.
Key Takeaways
Decide how much money you can spend before picking a knitwear manufacturer. Knowing the price helps you keep track of your costs.
Find manufacturers with low minimum order quantities. This lets you try new designs without spending a lot of money at first.
Make sure the products are good by asking for samples. Samples show if the knitwear is what you want before you buy more.
Think about customization choices. Pick manufacturers that let you choose colors, patterns, and materials to make special products.
Check where the manufacturer is located. Local manufacturers may ship faster and talk with you more easily. Overseas manufacturers might have cheaper prices.
Build good relationships with your suppliers. Talking well with them can give you better service, prices, and help for your brand.
Get ready to grow by talking about future orders with your manufacturer. Knowing how much they can make helps you plan for more products.
Be open to new ideas and changes. Trying small batches of new styles helps you keep up with trends and what customers like.
Top 10 Affordable Knitwear Manufacturers
Knitup
Location
Knitup is in China, but you can order from anywhere. They ship to many countries. They have a strong website and are easy to find online.
Main Products
Knitup makes many kinds of knitwear. You can get sweaters, cardigans, dresses, and accessories. They use natural and synthetic fibers. You can pick what works best for your brand.
Pricing & Affordability
Knitup is a knitwear manufacturer with flexible prices. You do not have to pay a lot at first. Their prices are good for new brands. You can start with a small order. This makes them one of the best clothing manufacturers for beginners.
Minimum Order Quantities
Knitup has no minimum order. You can buy just one piece to try a style. This helps you save money and not waste products.
Tip: Most knitwear manufacturers want big orders, but Knitup does not. You can test new ideas with just one piece.
Here is a table that shows how their minimum order is different:
Manufacturer | MOQ (pieces per style) |
|---|---|
Knitup | No Minimum |
DGjiayan | 20 |
Knitwise | 50 |
Customization Options
Knitup lets you make custom knitwear. You can choose colors, patterns, and materials. They help you with design and samples. You can make clothes that match your ideas.
Description | |
|---|---|
Customization Expertise | Specializes in custom knitwear tailored to brand specifications. |
Comprehensive Production Services | Provides design support, prototyping, and full-scale manufacturing. |
Pros
You can use high-quality materials and new knitting machines.
No minimum order means you can order as much or as little as you want.
Knitup cares about the environment and makes products responsibly.
Their team uses new technology to help you make great knitwear.
Cons
Shipping can take longer if you do not live in Asia.
Talking to them may be slow because of time differences.
DGjiayan
Location
DGjiayan is in Dongguan, China. They work with brands from many countries and ship worldwide.
Main Products
DGjiayan makes sweaters, pullovers, cardigans, and other knitwear. They use cotton, wool, acrylic, and mixed yarns. You can find both classic and new styles.
Pricing & Affordability
DGjiayan is a knitwear manufacturer with low prices. You get good quality for less money. This is great for startups that want to save.
Minimum Order Quantities
DGjiayan lets you order just 20 pieces per style. This is good if you want to try out your ideas or start small.
Customization Options
You can make custom knitwear with DGjiayan. They help you with design and let you pick colors, patterns, and labels. Their team helps turn your ideas into real clothes.
Customization Option | Description |
|---|---|
Custom Design Services | Works closely with brands to create unique, bespoke knitwear. |
Pros
Low minimum order helps you start small.
Many yarns and styles to pick from.
Their team helps with custom knitwear.
Cons
It can take longer to get your order when they are busy.
Some styles do not have many custom options.
Knitwise
Location
Knitwise is in the United States. You can work with them if you want a local knitwear manufacturer or need fast shipping in North America.
Main Products
Knitwise makes sweaters, vests, scarves, and hats. They offer both classic and modern knitwear. You can pick from many yarns and colors.
Pricing & Affordability
Knitwise has fair prices for small brands. You do not need a lot of money to start. Their prices are clear, and you can get a quote fast.
Minimum Order Quantities
Knitwise asks for a minimum order of 50 pieces per style. This is more than some, but less than many other knitwear manufacturers.
Customization Options
You can make custom knitwear with Knitwise. They help with design, samples, and making the clothes. You can pick your own colors, patterns, and packaging.
Customization Option | Description |
|---|---|
Customization & Flexibility | Tailor designs, materials, and production quantities to fit your brand’s needs. |
Pros
They are in the US, so shipping is fast and it is easy to talk to them.
Good for brands that want to say “Made in USA.”
They help with design and samples.
Cons
Minimum order is higher than some other companies.
Prices can be a bit higher because they are made in the US.
If you want to see minimum order amounts, look at the table above. This helps you choose the knitwear manufacturer that is right for you.
Luxury Knit
Location
Luxury Knit is in Bangladesh. You can talk to their team online or by phone. They send knitwear to many countries. You can work with them no matter where your brand is.
Main Products
Luxury Knit has many knitwear choices. They make sweaters, cardigans, pullovers, and knit dresses. You can also buy hats and scarves. Their clothes include both classic and trendy styles.
Pricing & Affordability
Luxury Knit has good prices for new brands. You can start your line without spending a lot. Their prices help you save money and keep costs low.
Minimum Order Quantities
You can order as few as 30 pieces per style. This small order lets you try new designs and control your budget. You do not have to buy big batches, so you can test different styles.
Customization Options
Luxury Knit lets you change many things about your clothes. You can pick yarn types, colors, and patterns. Their team helps you make samples and change designs. You can add your own labels and packaging to make your brand special.
Pros
You get knitwear that does not cost a lot and you can order small amounts.
Their team helps you with design and making the clothes.
You can change your clothes to fit your brand.
They ship to many places and are reliable.
Cons
Shipping might take longer if you are not in Asia.
It can be slower to talk to them when they are busy.
Ohio Knitting Mills
Location
Ohio Knitting Mills is in Cleveland, Ohio. You can visit their building or talk to their team online. They send knitwear all over the United States and to other countries.
Main Products
Ohio Knitting Mills has both classic and modern knitwear. You can get sweater dresses, knit tunics, and warm winter styles. They also make custom patterns and colors. You can build a special clothing line with their choices.
Pricing & Affordability
Ohio Knitting Mills has fair prices for new brands. You get good quality for a good price. They have made knitwear for a long time, so they know how to keep costs down.
Minimum Order Quantities
You need to order at least 50 pieces per style. This is good if you want to start a small collection or try new ideas.
Customization Options
You can change many things at Ohio Knitting Mills. You can pick yarns, colors, and styles. You can also add your own label. Their team helps you make knitwear that fits your brand.
Pros
Ohio Knitting Mills has made knitwear since 1927. You get good service and quality. Their experience makes them a good choice for new brands. Their team knows the clothing business and helps you grow.
Cons
You have to order more pieces than with some other companies.
It can take longer to make custom designs.
Simply Knitting Mills, Inc.
Location
Simply Knitting Mills, Inc. is in Los Angeles, California. You can talk to their team easily or visit if you are close. They send knitwear all over North America and other places.
Main Products
You can buy sweaters, cardigans, knit tops, and accessories from Simply Knitting Mills, Inc. They have both simple and stylish clothes. You can pick from many yarns and finishes.
Pricing & Affordability
Simply Knitting Mills, Inc. helps you save money. Their prices are clear, so you know what you pay for each piece. You do not need a lot of money to start working with them.
Minimum Order Quantities
You do not have to order a lot at once. You can buy just one piece to try a design or make small batches. This helps new brands start new lines easily.
Customization Options
You can change every part of your knitwear. Their team helps you pick yarns, colors, and patterns. You can add your own labels and packaging. They help you from design to delivery.
Note: Simply Knitting Mills, Inc. makes clothes only when you need them. This means you do not waste materials and can follow new trends fast.
Advantage | Description |
|---|---|
Sustainability | You do not waste materials or make too many clothes. |
You can start your brand without spending a lot of money. | |
Fast Production Times | They make knitwear quickly, so you get your clothes fast. |
Ability to Test Small Batches | You can see what people like and make more if needed. |
On-Demand Production | They make only what you need, so you can follow trends. |
Pros
You can order any amount, even just one piece.
They make clothes fast and respond quickly.
You do not waste money or materials.
Their team helps you test new ideas fast.
Cons
Prices can be higher if you order very few pieces.
Some special changes may take more time to make.
Ball of Cotton, Inc.
Location
Ball of Cotton, Inc. is in Los Angeles, California. You can talk to their team online. You can visit their studio if you live close. They send knitwear to people in the United States and other countries.
Main Products
Ball of Cotton, Inc. makes many kinds of knitwear. They make sweaters, cardigans, ponchos, and knit tops. Their styles are classic and trendy. You can pick from lots of yarns and colors for your brand.
Pricing & Affordability
Ball of Cotton, Inc. has good prices for new brands. You do not need a lot of money to start. Their prices are clear, so you know what you pay. You can order small batches to test your ideas and save money.
Minimum Order Quantities
You can order just 12 pieces of each style. This low minimum helps you start your brand or try new designs. You do not have to buy a lot, which is good for startups.
Customization Options
Ball of Cotton, Inc. lets you change your knitwear. You can pick yarns, colors, and patterns. Their team helps you with design and samples. You can add your own labels and packaging to make your clothes special.
Customization Feature | Description |
|---|---|
Yarn Selection | Pick cotton, wool, or blends |
Color Options | Many colors to choose from |
Labeling | Add your own brand labels |
Packaging | Custom packaging for your clothes |
Pros
You can order small amounts to test the market.
Their team helps you with design and making clothes.
You can make special knitwear for your brand.
Small batches are made quickly.
Cons
Prices can be higher if you order very few pieces.
Hard designs might take more time to make.
Tailored Industry
Location
Tailored Industry is in Brooklyn, New York. You can talk to their team online or visit if you live nearby. They send knitwear to people in the United States and other countries.
Main Products
Tailored Industry makes sweaters, hats, scarves, and other knitwear. You can find classic and modern styles. Their clothes use good yarns and new knitting machines.
Pricing & Affordability
Tailored Industry has flexible prices for startups. You do not need a lot of money to begin. Their on-demand model helps you save by making only what you need. You do not pay extra for storage or shipping.
Minimum Order Quantities
You can order just one piece of each style. Tailored Industry has no minimum order. You can try new designs or start your brand without risk.
Tip: You can begin with one item and order more later. This helps you avoid making too many clothes and wasting materials.
Customization Options
Tailored Industry lets you change your knitwear in many ways. You can pick yarns, colors, and patterns. Their software helps you design and order clothes fast. You can add your own labels and packaging.
Pros
No minimum order lets you start small and grow.
On-demand making saves money and cuts waste.
WHOLEGARMENT® machines make clothes fast and nice.
You can ship products to customers in a few days.
Their service helps you keep up with trends.
Cons
Prices can be higher for single pieces.
Some special changes may take more time.
Hongyu Apparel
Location
Hongyu Apparel is in Guangzhou, China. You can talk to their team online or visit if you live close. They send knitwear to many countries, so you can reach lots of customers.
Main Products
Hongyu Apparel makes sweaters, cardigans, knit dresses, and accessories. You can pick from many styles and yarns. Their clothes are classic and trendy.
Pricing & Affordability
Hongyu Apparel has good prices for new brands. You do not need a lot of money to start. Their prices are clear, so you know what you pay. You can order small batches to test your ideas.
Minimum Order Quantities
You can order 50 pieces of each style. This minimum helps you start your brand or try new designs. You do not have to buy huge amounts.
Customization Options
Hongyu Apparel helps you at every step. You can pick yarns, colors, and patterns. Their team helps with design, samples, and making the clothes. You can add your own labels and packaging to make your clothes stand out.
Hongyu Apparel gives lots of help to startups. They help you find fabric and guide you until you get your clothes. Their focus on quality and service makes them a good partner if you want special knitwear.
Pros
Their team helps you at every step.
Their quality control makes sure your clothes are good.
You can change your knitwear to match your brand.
They ship to many places and help you find new customers.
Cons
Minimum order is more than some other companies.
Shipping can take longer if you are not in Asia.
Lemura Knitwear
Location
Lemura Knitwear is in Tiruppur, India. You can talk to their team online or by phone. They work with brands from many countries. You can visit their factory if you want. Being in India helps them keep prices low. They can also ship quickly to lots of places.
Main Products
Lemura Knitwear makes many kinds of knitwear. You can get sweaters, cardigans, pullovers, and knit tops. They have both classic and new styles. You can also buy scarves and hats. They use cotton, wool, and blended yarns. You can pick the materials that fit your brand.
Pricing & Affordability
Lemura Knitwear knows you want to save money. You do not need a big budget to start. Their prices are clear and easy to understand. You can ask for a price before you order. They offer low-cost choices for small batches. This is good for startups that want to try new ideas.
Minimum Order Quantities
You can order just 20 pieces of each style. This small order lets you test new designs. You do not have to buy a lot at once. You can launch a small collection or try out the market. Lemura Knitwear helps small brands by letting you start small.
Tip: Start with a small order to lower your risk. You can order more later when your brand grows.
Customization Options
Lemura Knitwear lets you change your clothes in many ways. You can pick yarns, colors, and patterns. Their team helps you with design and samples. You can add your own labels and packaging. If you want eco-friendly fabrics, they help you choose them. You get help from the start to the end.
Customization Feature | Description |
|---|---|
Yarn Selection | Choose cotton, wool, or blends |
Color Options | Wide range of colors available |
Pattern Design | Create your own patterns |
Labeling & Packaging | Add custom labels and packaging |
Sustainable Fabric Guidance | Get help picking eco-friendly materials |
Pros
You get many good things when you pick Lemura Knitwear. Here is a table that shows why they are good for startups:
Advantage | Description |
|---|---|
Expert guidance on sustainable fabric sourcing | Helps you make informed choices on materials |
Low MOQ production tailored for startups | Lets you produce smaller quantities |
Ethical, efficient manufacturing in India | Ensures responsible production practices |
You get advice on picking eco-friendly fabrics.
You can order small batches to save money.
Lemura Knitwear uses fair and safe ways to make clothes.
Their team helps you from design to delivery.
Cons
Shipping can take longer if you are not in Asia.
Some custom designs may take more time to make.
You might wait longer for samples if you want special fabrics.
Note: Ask about how long production takes before you order. This helps you plan and avoid waiting too long.
How to Choose an Affordable Knitwear Manufacturer
Picking a manufacturer for your knitwear brand can be tough. You want to make choices that help your budget and help your startup grow. Let’s look at the main things you should think about.
Key Factors for Startups
Pricing & Budget
You need to know your spending limit. Pricing changes how much money you make. Ask for clear prices and check what is included. Some manufacturers let you buy small batches. This helps you control your budget.
Minimum Order Quantities
Minimum order quantities can change your plans. If you want to try new designs, pick manufacturers with low MOQs. This way, you do not spend too much or get stuck with extra clothes.
Product Quality
Quality is important. Customers want knitwear that feels soft and looks nice. Always ask for samples before you buy a lot. Good quality helps your brand stand out and keeps buyers coming back.
Customization
You want your clothes to be special. Customization lets you pick colors, patterns, and labels. Some manufacturers help you make tech packs. Tech packs show every part of your design. They make production easier.
Location & Shipping
Where your manufacturer is matters for shipping and cost. Domestic manufacturers ship faster and talk to you more easily. Overseas manufacturers may have lower prices and can make more clothes. Think about what is best for your brand.
Communication & Support
Good communication helps you solve problems. You want a team that answers your questions. Support is important when you are new to making clothes.
Here’s a table to help you compare important things:
Factor | Description |
|---|---|
Manufacturer Capabilities | Check their experience, equipment, and ability to make your style of knitwear. |
Minimum Order Quantities | Make sure their MOQ matches your budget and inventory needs. |
Location | Decide if you want domestic speed and quality or overseas pricing and capacity. |
Tech Packs | Use tech packs to outline every detail of your product for smooth production. |
Evaluating Knitwear Suppliers
Requesting Samples
Ask for samples before you order a lot. Samples show you the quality and help you find problems.
Comparing Quotes
Get prices from different suppliers. Compare costs, how fast they work, and what you get. This helps you pick the best one for your budget.
Checking References
Talk to other brands that used the manufacturer. References give you real feedback about how reliable and helpful they are.
Factory Visits
Visit the factory if you can. Seeing how they make clothes helps you know their skills and quality.
Mistakes to Avoid
Hidden Costs
Watch out for extra fees. Ask about shipping, packaging, and other costs that might surprise you.
Ignoring Lead Times
Lead times are important. If you need knitwear fast, make sure the manufacturer can deliver on time.
Unclear Terms
Read every contract carefully. Make sure you know payment rules, delivery dates, and what happens if something goes wrong.
Tip: Many startups forget to pick their target market, focus on quality, make special products, or plan for growth. Avoid these mistakes to build a strong brand.
Working with Custom Knitwear Suppliers
Building Relationships
When you work with custom knitwear suppliers, building a good relationship makes everything easier. Start by introducing yourself and your brand. Share your goals and what makes your knitwear special. Ask questions and show interest in their process. People like to help when they feel respected.
Stay in touch with your supplier. Send updates about your plans. Give feedback on samples and thank them for their hard work. If you have a problem, talk about it early. Most suppliers want to fix issues quickly.
Tip: Use video calls or voice messages. These help you connect better than just emails.
A strong relationship can lead to better prices, faster service, and more support. You might even get early access to new yarns or styles.
Negotiating MOQs & Terms
MOQs, or minimum order quantities, can feel scary for startups. You do not always need to accept the first number a supplier gives you. Ask if they can lower the MOQ for your first order. Explain that you are testing the market. Many suppliers will work with you if you are honest.
Here are some things you can negotiate:
Lower MOQs for new styles
Payment terms (like paying part now and part later)
Sample costs
Delivery times
What to Negotiate | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
MOQ | Lets you start small |
Payment Terms | Helps with cash flow |
Sample Fees | Saves money on testing |
Lead Times | Keeps your launch on schedule |
Note: Always get agreements in writing. This avoids confusion later.
Managing Production & Quality
Managing production means checking every step. Ask your supplier for a timeline. Make sure you know when you will get samples, when production starts, and when shipping happens.
Check the quality of your knitwear before you approve the full order. Ask for photos or videos during production. If you can, visit the factory or hire someone local to check the work.
Here’s a simple checklist:
Approve samples before bulk production
Ask for updates at each stage
Check labels and packaging
Review finished products before shipping
If you find a problem, tell your supplier right away. Good custom knitwear suppliers want you to be happy. They will fix mistakes if you catch them early.
Tip: Keep a record of all messages and photos. This helps solve problems fast.
Working closely with your supplier helps you get the best results. You will feel more confident as your brand grows.
Planning for Growth
You want your brand to get bigger. You dream about seeing your knitwear in more stores and on more people. Growth sounds exciting, but you need a plan. If you work with custom knitwear suppliers, you can set yourself up for success.
Start by thinking about your goals. Do you want to add new styles? Maybe you want to sell in other countries. Write down what you want to achieve. When you share your goals with your supplier, they can help you reach them.
You should talk to your supplier about future orders. Ask them how much they can make if you need more knitwear. Some suppliers can grow with you. Others might have limits. It helps to know this early.
Here are some steps you can follow:
Review your sales every month. Look for styles that sell well.
Ask your supplier about making bigger batches. See if they offer discounts for larger orders.
Plan your new collections ahead of time. Give your supplier enough notice.
Test new ideas with small batches before you go big.
Keep your designs fresh. Try new colors or patterns each season.
Tip: Suppliers like working with brands that plan ahead. If you tell them your ideas early, they can get ready for bigger orders.
You can use a simple table to track your growth plans:
Month | Styles to Launch | Expected Order Size | Supplier Contact Date |
|---|---|---|---|
January | 2 | 50 | Dec 1 |
April | 3 | 100 | Mar 1 |
August | 4 | 200 | July 1 |
If you want to sell in new places, ask your supplier about shipping. Some suppliers can help you ship knitwear to other countries. They might know about customs and taxes.
Stay flexible. Sometimes you need to change your plan. If a style does not sell, try something new. If you get a big order, ask your supplier if they can make it fast.
Building a strong partnership helps you grow. Suppliers want you to succeed. If you work together, you can reach your goals and make your brand bigger.
Clothing Manufacturers for Startups: Tips & Insights
Startup-Friendly Practices
You want your brand to stand out. Choosing the right clothing manufacturer can make a big difference. Some manufacturers use startup-friendly practices that help you grow faster and avoid common problems.
Here are a few things to look for:
Low Minimum Orders: You can test new styles without buying too much.
Clear Communication: Good manufacturers answer your questions quickly. They explain each step so you know what to expect.
Flexible Payment Terms: Some let you pay part now and the rest later. This helps you manage your money.
Sample Support: You can order samples before making a big order. This lets you check the quality and fit.
Design Help: Many manufacturers offer design advice. They help you turn your ideas into real products.
Tip: Always ask about extra fees. Some companies charge for samples, labels, or special packaging.
You can use this table to compare manufacturers:
Practice | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
Low Minimum Orders | Less risk for new brands |
Fast Sample Turnaround | Quicker product launches |
Design Assistance | Easier for first-time founders |
Scaling Your Knitwear Brand
You start small, but you dream big. Growing your knitwear brand takes planning and smart choices. Here are some steps you can follow:
Track Your Best Sellers: Write down which styles sell the most. Focus on these when you reorder.
Build Strong Supplier Relationships: Stay in touch with your manufacturer. Share your plans and ask for advice.
Plan for Bigger Orders: As your brand grows, you may need more products. Ask your manufacturer if they can handle larger orders.
Try New Styles: Test new colors or patterns in small batches. See what your customers like before making a big order.
Improve Your Packaging: Good packaging makes your brand look professional. It can help you get more repeat buyers.
Remember: Growth takes time. Celebrate small wins and learn from mistakes.
You can use a simple checklist to stay on track:
Review sales every month
Talk to your supplier often
Plan new collections early
Test new ideas in small batches
With the right steps, you can turn your small brand into something bigger. Stay flexible and keep learning as you grow.
You want your brand to succeed, so picking the right knitwear manufacturer matters. The top 10 list gives you a strong place to start, but you need to do your homework. Try these steps:
Contact a few manufacturers.
Ask for samples.
Compare prices and options.
Ready to launch? You can build something great. Startups like yours can make a mark in the knitwear market in 2025.
FAQ
What is a minimum order quantity (MOQ)?
MOQ means the smallest number of pieces you can order at one time. Some manufacturers let you buy just one item. Others ask for 20, 50, or more. Always check before you order.
Can I get samples before placing a big order?
Yes, you can ask for samples. Samples help you check quality and fit. Most manufacturers offer samples for a small fee. You should always test before you buy a lot.
How long does production usually take?
Production time depends on the manufacturer and your order size. Most orders take 2 to 6 weeks. If you want custom designs, it might take longer. Ask for a timeline before you start.
Do manufacturers help with design?
Many manufacturers help you with design. You can share your ideas, colors, and patterns. Some offer design support or tech packs. If you need help, just ask!
What if I want eco-friendly knitwear?
You can choose eco-friendly yarns like organic cotton or recycled fibers. Some manufacturers offer sustainable options. Tell them you want green materials when you start your order.
How do I pay for my order?
Most manufacturers accept bank transfers, PayPal, or credit cards. Some ask for part of the payment up front. You pay the rest when your order ships. Always check payment terms first.
Can I add my own labels and packaging?
Yes, you can add your own labels and packaging. Manufacturers let you customize these details. This helps your brand stand out. Ask about options when you place your order.
