Understanding how a silk scarf is made helps wholesale buyers set realistic specs, timelines, and quality checks. This FAQ covers the full manufacturing process, from raw fibre to finished, inspected piece. YANYAN, based in Hefei, Anhui, works with importers and private-label brands on 6A mulberry silk and cashmere scarves, with a 20-piece MOQ and worldwide shipping. Below are the questions buyers ask most when sourcing from China.
What are the main steps in silk scarf manufacturing?
The process begins with raw mulberry silk fibres, which are reeled, twisted, and woven into fabric such as silk twill. The greige fabric is then degummed, dyed, and printed or jacquard-woven. After printing, the fabric is steamed, washed, and dried to set colours. Next comes cutting to size, hemming (often hand-rolled), and quality control. Finally, scarves are pressed, labelled, packed, and prepared for export. At YANYAN, the full sequence is managed in Hefei, Anhui, with AQL inspection before dispatch. Each step affects drape, colour fastness, and hand feel.
What silk grade and momme weight should I specify?
For premium scarves, specify 6A mulberry silk twill. Grade 6A is the highest raw silk classification, meaning long, uniform fibres with few defects. Momme weight measures density: 16 momme is a common choice for 90×90 cm squares, offering a substantial hand and good drape. Lighter weights like 12–14 momme suit twillies and bandanas, while 19–22 momme works for heavy shawls. YANYAN’s standard spec example is 6A mulberry silk twill, 16 momme, 90×90 cm, hand-rolled hem, 20 pieces per colour. Always confirm momme and grade in your purchase order, as these directly affect cost and perceived quality.
Which printing method is best for my design and order size?
Digital printing suits small batches and complex, multi-colour artwork with no setup cost. Screen printing is cost-effective for larger runs and bold, simple designs, but each colour adds a screen and setup fee. Jacquard weaving creates the pattern in the weave itself, ideal for luxury, reversible, or textured scarves. For orders under 100 pieces per design, digital is usually the practical choice. For 500+ pieces, screen printing can reduce per-unit cost. YANYAN offers all three methods and can advise based on your design and target retail price. The right method balances image detail, colour vibrancy, and budget.
How long does sampling and production take?
Sampling typically takes about 7–10 days after artwork and specs are confirmed. This includes fabric sourcing, printing, hemming, and finishing of a pre-production sample. Once the sample is approved, bulk production lead time is generally 7–14 days for stock designs, and longer for complex custom orders. Factors that extend timelines include hand-rolled hemming, special dyes, and peak season congestion. For a 5,000-piece order, expect a staged schedule with clear deposit and balance milestones. Always build a buffer for shipping. YANYAN provides a 30% deposit to start production, with the balance before dispatch after AQL inspection.
What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ) for private label?
YANYAN’s MOQ starts at 20 pieces per colour for stock scarves. For private-label or OEM projects, the MOQ can be higher depending on custom printing, labelling, and packaging. A typical private-label run might require 100–300 pieces per design to absorb setup costs. If you are testing a new design, start with a stock scarf to validate demand, then scale to custom. OEM and ODM are both welcome. The 20-piece start makes it feasible for boutique retailers to test multiple colourways before committing to larger volumes. Always clarify MOQ per colour and per design in your inquiry.
How is quality checked before shipment?
Quality control follows an AQL (Acceptable Quality Limit) inspection before dispatch. Inspectors check for print defects, colour consistency, hem stitching, size accuracy, and fabric flaws. A standard AQL level II inspection samples a statistically valid number of pieces from the batch. For hand-rolled hems, check that stitches are even and tight, with no loose threads. For printed scarves, verify colour fastness and registration. YANYAN performs AQL inspection on every order and can share reports. Buyers may also arrange third-party inspection. This step protects you from receiving substandard goods and reduces the risk of returns.
What is the hand-rolled hem and why does it matter?
A hand-rolled hem is a traditional finishing technique where the edge of the silk is rolled and stitched by hand. It creates a soft, rounded edge that looks luxurious and allows the scarf to drape naturally. Machine-rolled or flat hems are faster and cheaper but can look stiffer and less refined. Hand-rolling is labour-intensive, which increases cost and lead time. For premium retail positioning, a hand-rolled hem is a strong selling point. YANYAN offers hand-rolled hems on silk twill scarves. When specifying, confirm the hem type, stitch density, and whether the thread colour matches the print.
How should I plan packaging and export packing?
Export packing must protect silk from moisture, light, and crushing. Standard export packing includes individual polybags, tissue paper, and cartons with desiccant where needed. For private label, custom boxes, ribbons, and branded cards can be added. Packaging affects both landed cost and retail presentation. YANYAN can advise on packaging that justifies a premium price. For bulk orders, cartons are typically palletised for sea freight or packed for air/express. Always confirm carton dimensions, gross weight, and labelling requirements. Proper packing reduces damage claims and ensures your scarves arrive retail-ready.
What shipping methods and lead times apply?
Shipping options include express, air, and sea. Express is fastest (days) but highest cost per kg, suitable for samples and urgent small orders. Air freight balances speed and cost for medium volumes. Sea freight is most economical for large, non-urgent orders, with longer transit times. YANYAN ships worldwide. Lead time from order confirmation to dispatch is typically 7–14 days for stock, plus transit. For a 5,000-piece order, plan production in stages and book freight early. Always account for customs clearance. Provide accurate HS codes and documentation to avoid delays. Your incoterms (FOB, EXW, etc.) determine who arranges and pays for freight.
How do I start a sourcing inquiry with YANYAN?
Begin by defining your spec: material, momme, size, print method, hem, quantity per colour, and packaging. Then request a quote and sample. YANYAN’s catalogue includes over 1,000 designs across six categories, including silk scarves, square bandanas, winter scarves, shawls and wraps, neck twillies, and hair headbands. Share your target retail price and timeline. The team will confirm MOQ, lead time, and deposit terms. Sampling takes about 7–10 days. After sample approval, production starts with a 30% deposit, followed by AQL inspection and balance payment before dispatch. Contact YANYAN in Hefei, Anhui, to discuss your next order.