Start with the environment and use
Define the expected surface, wind conditions, number of users, carrying method, cleaning method and any accessory restrictions. A lightweight woven mat, a more substantial blanket construction or another proposed build may suit different briefs. Final suitability should be based on the complete specification and representative sample results. See the beach mat construction questions.
Fabric and construction options
- Fabric: Request the exact composition, weave or knit, yarn or denier information, finished weight, coating and care instructions. Labels such as ripstop or parachute nylon do not define the complete construction.
- Edges and corners: Compare hems, seams, reinforcement, loops, stakes, fillable corner pockets and storage concepts against expected use and sample test criteria.
Terms such as sand-free, quick-dry and water-resistant should be converted into measurable sample checks with stated conditions and acceptance criteria.
Specification and sample verification
- State finished dimensions, tolerances, fabric identification, target finished weight, edge finish and corner construction.
- Define artwork placement, color references, print method, label content, accessory count, storage method, packed dimensions and packaging.
- Agree how sand release, drying, colorfastness, seam quality, dimensional stability and anchor or loop strength will be checked.
- Keep the approved sample, artwork and test criteria linked to the final purchase specification.
RFQ guidance
Include intended use, surface conditions, dimensions, fabric preferences, artwork files, branding method, anchor or corner requirements, packaging, quantity by design, destination, testing needs and requested delivery window. Ask for sampling charges, tooling, unit pricing, trade terms, production timing and shipping assumptions to be stated in the written quote; these details are project-specific.
Specification worksheet
- Fabric
- Record composition, construction, finished weight, coating, color reference and care requirements
- Dimensions
- State finished length, width, tolerance, fold method and packed size
- Edges and corners
- Define hems, seams, reinforcement, loops, stakes, pockets and attachment criteria
- Branding
- Provide artwork, placement, dimensions, color references, label copy and approval method
- Sample checks
- Define sand-release, drying, colorfastness, seam and attachment tests for intended use
- Commercial details
- Confirm quantity, price, production timing, trade terms and shipping assumptions in the quote