Types of Garment Merchandising: Knit, Woven and Sweater Merchandising

Types of Garment Merchandising

Garment merchandising covers the commercial and technical coordination required to execute apparel orders. The responsibilities may differ depending on the product category, fabric structure, manufacturing process and buyer requirements. In the export-oriented garment industry, knit, woven and sweater merchandising are three important areas.

1. Knit Garment Merchandising

Knit merchandising deals with products manufactured from knitted fabrics. Common products include T-shirts, polo shirts, leggings, sweatshirts, hoodies and other knitwear.

A knit merchandiser needs to understand fabric construction, GSM, yarn requirements, shrinkage, dyeing, finishing and garment specifications. Coordination with knitting, dyeing, cutting, sewing and finishing teams is important for successful order execution.

2. Woven Garment Merchandising

Woven merchandising covers products made from woven fabrics. Shirts, trousers, jackets, dresses and uniforms are common examples.

Woven products may require close attention to fabric construction, pattern matching, shrinkage, interlining, garment washing and sewing specifications. The merchandiser coordinates sample development, fabric and trims approval, production readiness and shipment follow-up.

3. Sweater Merchandising

Sweater merchandising focuses on knitted garments produced through specialised knitting machines. Products may include pullovers, cardigans, knitted tops and other fashion knitwear.

Important technical considerations include yarn count, stitch structure, gauge, knitting programming, linking, washing and finishing. Yarn selection and fabric appearance are especially important in sweater development.

Common Responsibilities Across Merchandising Types

• Buyer communication and order review.
• Sample development and approval follow-up.
• Costing and price negotiation.
• Fabric, yarn, trims and accessories follow-up.
• Production monitoring and delivery coordination.
• Quality and shipment follow-up.

Although product knowledge differs, all merchandising categories require strong coordination. Read about the definition of garment merchandising and the duties and responsibilities of a merchandiser for a broader understanding.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main types of garment merchandising?

Knit, woven and sweater merchandising are three major product-based categories.

What is knit merchandising?

It involves managing orders for garments made from knitted fabrics, such as T-shirts and polo shirts.

What is the difference between knit and woven merchandising?

They differ mainly in fabric construction, product characteristics and some manufacturing requirements.

Conclusion

Understanding the different types of garment merchandising helps professionals develop product-specific knowledge and coordinate the correct manufacturing processes for each order.