In the garment industry, whether you are a manufacturer, importer, or brand, you must understand the importance of quality control in this business. This industry shifts swiftly, and any time lost in shipment or defect fixings can lead to unimaginable losses. Moreover, quality issues can quickly disseminate in the digital age, giving competitors an advantage. Therefore, quality control is essential, and quality inspection is the most commonly used method. In this post, we will guide you through the steps of a garment quality inspection, the key checkpoints to focus on, and how can C&Z expertise support your garment quality control.
The Fado costume, deeply rooted in Portugal’s musical heritage, embodies elegance with its dark fabrics, intricate lace, and symbolic shawls (xailes). However, preserving its cultural significance while meeting modern safety and regulatory standards demands rigorous quality control. As a trusted third-party inspection company, C&Z Quality ensures every stitch and fabric aligns with global benchmarks. Below, we explore common defects, regulatory requirements, and actionable strategies.
Traditional materials like lã preta (black wool) or seda (silk) may be substituted with synthetic blends. Suppliers might use polyester instead of burel (traditional felted wool), violating Portugal’s NP 2987 textile standards.
Validate fiber content via FTIR spectroscopy and audit suppliers for OEKO-TEX® certification.
Hand-embroidered bordados (floral motifs) or renda de bilros (bobbin lace) may loosen due to weak thread tension. A 2024 study found 18% of shawls failed due to detached ponto de cruz (cross-stitch) details.
Conduct tensile strength tests (ASTM D5034) on seams and verify thread purity via XRF analysis.
Black dyes or metal fíbulas (brooches) may contain cadmium or nickel. EU REACH reports indicate 15% of exported costumes exceeded phthalate limits in 2024.
Test dyes via HPLC and enforce EN 16711 standards for accessory compliance.
Specifies fabric density and color fastness (≥ Grade 4).
Restricts azo dyes, formaldehyde, and heavy metals.
Certifies chemical content analysis for textiles.
A 2024 Lisbon Customs report linked 17% of Fado costume rejections to pH imbalances in black dyes, emphasizing pre-shipment audits.
Partner with certified artesãos like Oficina do Burel, using organic dyes and traditional tear manual (handloom) techniques.
Validate embroidery integrity, dye safety (AATCC 61), and button durability (ASTM D2061).
Ensure designs adhere to regional styles (e.g., Lisbon alfacinha vs. Coimbra academic influences).
Mastery of azulejo-inspired patterns and filigrana (filigree) metalwork.
Alignment with NP, EU REACH, and ISO standards.
Balancing modern testing with respect for Portuguese saudade craftsmanship.