Record the colour impression without a recipe
A mixed-looking colour character can be an appearance preference, but a photograph does not reveal its exact fibre or yarn recipe. Write what you see and want to preserve, such as a varied close surface with a coherent larger field. Keep that description separate from the weave or pattern direction. Ask the textile team which article and development route could support the goal rather than naming an assumed manufacturing method from a photo.
Keep the yarn or cloth reference identified
If you have a yarn or fabric colour reference, label it clearly and state what it represents. Record whether it is a target, an inspiration or a sample under review. Do not apply one reference's composition or colour information to another merely because the overall impression is similar. Keep physical cuttings or standards available for the discussion, with photographs acting as supporting views rather than replacing the reference identity.
Compare close detail with the larger field
A close view can emphasise individual colour variations that merge differently across a wider panel. Use matching views of the same sample and record lighting and direction. Describe both results in the record so the team knows whether the close variation or overall impression is the priority. When the intended garment has large fronts or long legs, request a cutting that can answer that field question instead of deciding from a small crop alone.
Ask for the correct colour sample stage
Discuss whether the next step should be an existing article sample or another colour-development reference. Ask the team to identify the material and stage, and keep the approved reference and conditions with any decision. A colour comparison should not silently become approval of finished weight, usable width, surface or garment performance. Those properties need their own article information and appropriate samples.
Keep batch and supply questions open
When a particular colour character is selected, ask how the supplied sample relates to a proposed article and later production. Request the relevant shade or roll information if it matters to a coordinated garment. Do not promise a universal match from an online image or imply stock availability. Your brief should state the garment, colour reference, quantities per colour and unresolved article questions so the team can respond to the actual project.
Keep the overall colour goal readable
Use the selection record to explain which view drives the preference. If the mixed-looking detail is attractive close up but the larger field needs to remain quiet, say so explicitly. Keep an original image or physical inspiration available, with its source and role. Ask the team which sample can show the proposed colour character at both views. When several candidates are compared, record their identities and any differences in material or finish instead of merging them into one imagined article. A physical standard and an appearance description can support different parts of the discussion. Keep both roles clear when the project moves to colour review. This allows the team to respond to the actual garment goal without an unverified fibre recipe or a screen image becoming the final specification.
Your decision and record
| Check | Decide | Keep with the reference |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Separate mixed colour character from pattern direction. | Close and larger observations. |
| Reference | State whether the physical item is a target or inspiration. | Reference ID, source and role. |
| Sample stage | Choose an existing article or colour-development discussion. | Stage, material identity and questions. |
| Approval | Limit a colour decision to the property and sample reviewed. | Physical standard and viewing conditions. |
| Supply | Confirm the relationship to proposed article and rolls. | Quantity, shade questions and written response. |
Questions for this step
Can a photo establish a melange recipe?
No. It can communicate an appearance preference. Ask the textile team for the proposed article and its confirmed material or colour-development information.
Does melange describe the herringbone structure?
Record colour character separately from the pattern and construction. A mixed appearance does not establish the underlying weave or article composition.
What should I send for colour development?
An identified physical reference where possible, the close and larger appearance priorities, the intended garment, quantity plan and questions about the next sample stage.