How to Specify a Custom Cap in Four Lines

A cap order is decided before anything is cut, in the specification. Four lines settle most of it, and none of them is the price.The first is panels and crown height. Six panels is the default: the crown is symmetrical, the front seam sits in the centre, and a centred logo has an axis to align to. Five panels remove that seam and give one clean front panel, which suits a wide logo or a single line of type. Seven panels belong to flat-bill shapes. Crown height is quoted as low, mid or high - roughly 8.5, 10 and 11.5 cm - but the only number that binds anyone is the one measured on your approved sample.The second is fabric and weight. Cotton twill runs from about 180 to 260 gsm, and 240 is the usual retail weight. Below 200 the crown softens quickly and a 3D logo can pull the panel out of shape. Above 260 the cap gets stiff, and every carton gains weight you pay to ship. Ask for the shrinkage figure as well - cotton twill commonly pulls in two to three percent through a wash, mostly in the crown.The third is the back. A plastic snap or a metal buckle keeps the cap one size. A closed back does not, so it has to be made in sizes, and three sizes means three stock codes, three sets of labels and a minimum order that triples. If you want closed back, send head circumference in centimetres before anything else is discussed.The fourth is decoration. Embroidery is priced by stitch count, and a front logo usually lands between 6,000 and 12,000. Every position is a separate charge: front, visor, side panel, back, back strap. Small type needs a stroke of about 0.8 mm or it closes up on the machine.Write those four lines down and the sample becomes a confirmation rather than a negotiation.Our standard minimum is 100 pieces per design and colourway in common fabrics, and a sample leaves the sampling room about five working days after artwork approval.