Hoodies and sweatshirts are deceptively simple. The difference between a private label program that sells through and one that returns is usually in the details: fleece weight, shoulder fit, rib recovery, wash hand and label placement. KARSAN TEKSTİL produces heavyweight fleece, zip-through and crewneck programs for brands in 13+ export markets.
Key takeaways
- Fleece weight and fit must be decided together — a heavy fleece does not drape like a midweight one.
- Garment dye and wash add character but change shrinkage; always test on the bulk fabric.
- Rib quality decides how long cuffs and hems keep their shape.
- Label and trim approval belongs on the pre-production sample, not on the shipment.
Choosing the fleece
Most retail hoodies sit between 280 and 320 gsm. That range holds shape, takes embroidery well and works across seasons. Oversized and premium streetwear programs often move to 380–450 gsm for a denser, more structured hand.
Brushed fleece is softer against the skin; loopback is cooler and more stable in wash. The choice affects both the feel and the finishing route, so it should be locked before sampling.
Fit and construction
Fit is defined by shoulder drop, body width, sleeve length and rib tension. An oversized hoodie needs a wider body and a dropped shoulder; a classic fit needs a closer armhole and a shorter body. Both can use the same fabric and still behave like different products.
- Heavyweight hoodie: 400 gsm fleece, dropped shoulder, double-layer hood, wide rib.
- Zip-up: matched panel weight, tape-stabilised zip, clean neck binding.
- Crewneck: rib neck with elastane, flatlock or twin-needle hem.
Wash, dye and finishing
Garment dye gives a softer, lived-in colour but introduces shrinkage and shade variation between lots. Soft-hand washes change the surface and can affect embroidery coverage. If the design depends on a wash, test it on the actual fleece before approving bulk.
Embroidery, screen print, puff print and patches all behave differently on brushed versus loopback fleece. Artwork should be approved on the final fabric, not on a digital mock-up.
Labels and packing
Private label programs usually need a main label, care label, size label and flag tag, plus any compliance marks the market requires. Placement is confirmed on the pre-production sample. Cartons are packed by size and colour ratio agreed with the buyer, with export marking applied before shipment.
FAQ
What fleece weight should a hoodie use?
Midweight 280–320 gsm fleece suits year-round retail programs. Heavier 380–450 gsm fleece gives a structured, premium hand for oversized fits. The weight must match the fit and the wash — heavy fleece plus garment dye shrinks differently.
Can hoodies be garment dyed or washed?
Yes. Garment dye and soft-hand washes are common for private label programs. They add a finishing step and affect shrinkage, so the wash must be tested on the actual fabric before bulk.
What labelling is needed for private label?
Main label, care label, size label, flag tag and any required compliance marks. Placement and artwork are confirmed on the pre-production sample so bulk labelling matches exactly.
Build a fleece program
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