Textiles Technology Visiting Bentwoods factory

Bentwoods is a textile manufacturer specialising in clothing mainly for Marks and Spencer. Their sites include: §a design and cutting factory §a factory to make up garments §a site to ‘finish’ garments or for special orders

The pictures begin as the designs are being made up for the first time. In the picture you can see the prototype being cut out from the original pattern ready to be made up. This is the design area.

Here prototypes are produced. One machinist is making up the whole garment.

The patterns are being developed : different sizes; graded patterns; making up patterns to ensure they work.

By computer, the pattern is graded for the different sizes. The operator is also working out the most economical way to lay out the pattern on the material, to avoid waste and so lose money.

The plotter cutter. The operator and computer have worked out the most economical lay plan. The machine then plots and cuts out the correct pattern ready for the next stage.

These are the cutting tables. Look at the multiple layers of cloth on the table and the roll of fabric above. They are held in place by hydraulic suction.

The cloth is being cut out, note the lay plan on top and others lower down. There may be different sizes and different parts being cut from this one lay plan, depending on how the pattern fit the cloth.

Testing fabrics is done in a number of ways: testing strength/tear, testing for pilling (both below). Also wearer trials, washing tests and creep tests are carried out.

Now the garments have been cut out and sorted into bundles - the same sizes and the same pieces - all sleeves, all fronts, etc.

It is someone’s job to sort all the sleeves, bands, etc. onto a carousel. Then the machinists can make up the garments.

The production line where all the garments are made up

The garments are now complete. The check list at the front tells us what is on the rack - number, sizes. It will be checked to ensure it is correct - quality control.

Once checked, the garment is bagged to keep it clean.

The completed garments are ready for delivery