CMT vs FPP: Which Clothing Manufacturing Method is Right For You?
Choosing the right clothing manufacturing method can make or break your clothing brand’s production strategy. Two popular manufacturing models, CMT (Cut, Make, Trim) and FPP (Full Package Production), offer vastly different experiences, costs, and levels of control. If you’re a clothing brand owner trying to decide between CMT and FPP, you’re in the right place.
This guide will explain the types of clothing manufacturing, their advantages and disadvantages, costs, control, customization, and more, so you can confidently choose what’s best for your apparel business.
There are several types of clothing manufacturing, but the two most common are:
Understanding these models helps align your manufacturing model with your apparel brand’s vision, budget, and growth stage.
CMT stands for Cut, Make, Trim, a model where the clothing brand provides materials, patterns, and technical packs to the factory. The CMT clothing manufacturer only handles the manufacturing assembly.
This method is common among boutique labels and designers who want full control over materials, fabric sourcing, and packaging.
Pro tip: CMT allows you to stay hands-on, but it requires deeper production knowledge and strong supply chain management.
CMT gives you maximum control over the final product. You choose the materials, trims, and even the stitching details. This is especially beneficial for boutique labels and designers with a clear vision and unique styling needs.
Another advantage is that CMT clothing manufacturers often allow smaller production runs. That’s ideal for brands testing the market or offering limited collections.
With control comes complexity. You’re responsible for sourcing materials, creating tech packs, and coordinating logistics, often from multiple vendors.Additionally, the lack of centralized accountability can create bottlenecks and delays, especially if you’re not experienced in managing the garment production process.
FPP, or Full Package Production, is an end-to-end solution where the manufacturer sources everything, fabric, trims, patterns, labels, and even packaging. It’s ideal for those seeking a hands-off production experience.
Many DTC clothing brands and newcomers opt for FPP clothing manufacturers to reduce complexity and speed up time to market.
Pro tip: FPP simplifies the process, which is perfect if you’re launching your first fashion line or clothing brand or want to avoid dealing with raw material sourcing.
FPP offers convenience. The manufacturer handles everything from sourcing to packaging, freeing you up to focus on marketing, branding, or design.
It also ensures consistency in production, which is ideal for scalable fashion businesses that prioritize timely delivery and uniform quality.
However, this convenience can come at a price. You may have to compromise on customization, as manufacturers often work with a fixed range of materials and trims.
Also, FPP manufacturing typically involves higher MOQs and requires more upfront investment, which may not suit very early-stage startups.
The difference between CMT and FPP lies in control and responsibility. With CMT, you handle sourcing and logistics. With FPP, the manufacturer handles everything from start to finish.
Best for beginners: FPP may be the superior choice if you’re not ready to manage suppliers and trims independently.
Feature | CMT | FPP |
Material Sourcing | Brand handles | Manufacturer handles |
MOQ | Often lower | Often higher |
Control & Customization | High | Moderate |
Production Speed | Slower due to coordination | Faster due to streamlined workflow |
Ideal for | Experienced brands | New brands or time-sensitive production |
Cost Transparency | Low upfront, variable logistics costs | Higher upfront, more predictable pricing |
Customization Level | Maximum | Limited to standard options |
Risk | Higher due to split responsibilities | Lower, central accountability |
Summary: CMT offers flexibility and control. FPP provides convenience and speed. Your brand’s stage, goals, and resources determine the best method for garment manufacturing.
CMT offers greater flexibility, perfect if you’re using unique trims, custom dyes, or special fabrics. You dictate every detail.
FPP offers less customization but excels in consistency. It suits brands with standard products like sportswear, casualwear, or basic collections.
Best for creative control: Choose CMT when your product line demands unique or rare materials.
CMT clothing manufacturers often have lower clothing MOQs, especially if you provide ready-to-sew materials. That makes it easier for small-batch testing.
FPP manufacturers may require higher MOQs to streamline their sourcing and production pipeline.
Startup tip: Go with CMT if you’re testing your first 30–50-piece collection.
With CMT, you’re responsible for fabric quality, pattern accuracy, and fit testing. That means more oversight but higher risk.
In FPP, quality is bundled into the service. Reputable FPP manufacturers include in-house QC teams, reducing your workload.
Takeaway: FPP is more hands-off but requires trust. CMT puts you in the driver’s seat—ideal if you demand tighter quality control.
New clothing brands often start with FPP to save time and avoid sourcing headaches. It
Accelerates the garment production process.
Established brands with existing supply chains prefer CMT for cost control and creative freedom.
Decision tip: If you’re new, FPP is your launchpad. If you’re scaling or niche-focused, CMT may serve you better.
Here are the key steps to follow when selecting the best partner for your manufacturing journey:
Before reaching out to any factory, list your brand’s priorities, low MOQ, high customization, fast lead time, sustainable sourcing, etc.
Look for manufacturers experienced in your product category and business model. Read reviews, explore case studies, and shortlist 3–5 suitable partners.
Ask about their MOQ, sourcing capabilities, timeline guarantees, quality control processes, and what type of clothing manufacturer they are (CMT or FPP).
Always test quality before committing to full-scale production. Samples will reveal stitch quality, fabric handling, and communication clarity.
Good manufacturers act as partners, not just suppliers. Look for those who are transparent, responsive, and genuinely care about your success. At My Global Threads, we pride ourselves on clear communication during every phase, especially the sampling stage, because that’s where trust and product quality truly begin.
Pro tip: Don’t just choose the model, choose a manufacturer aligned with your brand goals.
Both CMT and FPP are valid options; what matters most is what fits your business needs today.
Final tip: Start with FPP if you’re launching fast and lean. Shift to CMT when you need custom detailing or want to optimize costs.
Choosing between CMT vs. FPP clothing manufacturers isn’t about finding the “best method” overall; it’s about finding the right manufacturing model for your brand’s needs.
Whether you want to control every seam or prefer a turnkey solution, understanding both models will help you make a confident, cost-effective decision.
The main difference lies in control and responsibility. CMT means you handle materials and logistics; FPP means the manufacturer handles everything from sourcing to final packaging.
Not always. While CMT may have a lower upfront cost, it can incur hidden expenses related to sourcing, logistics, and quality control. FPP, though more expensive initially, may save time and reduce risk.
FPP is often a better fit for small or new brands due to its simplicity and speed. CMT works best if you already have sourcing knowledge and want maximum creative control.
Absolutely. Many brands start with FPP to get to market quickly, then transition to CMT for better cost control or customization once they scale.
Not requesting samples, ignoring communication quality, and failing to align production capabilities with your specific product category are some of the most common mistakes.
Have questions or need assistance with custom apparel manufacturing? Fill out the form below, and a member of our team will get back to you promptly. Whether it’s about custom orders, product details, or general inquiries, we’re here to provide expert guidance and solutions for your B2B apparel needs.
Professional assistance for inquiries, orders, and project customization.
A curated selection of premium materials, including sustainable and performance-grade fabrics.
Expertise in sublimation, embroidery, and DTF printing for superior results.
Create apparel that reflects your unique vision with our custom design services.
AI-crafted designs tailored to your brand.
My Global Threads specializes in custom apparel and printing, offering high-quality fabrics and personalized designs for businesses, with a commitment to sustainability and great customer service.
©myglobalthreads 2025 All rights reserved (Powered by Genxintegratedsystems)