What is the Question of Quality in an Interview?

If you’re attending an interview for a Quality Assurance (QA) role in the garment industry, you might face questions related to quality standards, inspection methods, defect handling, and process improvements. Below are some common QA interview questions and suggested answers:

1. What is Quality Assurance (QA) in garments?

✅ Answer:
Quality Assurance (QA) in garments refers to the systematic process of preventing defects in products by setting quality standards and monitoring production from raw materials to the final product. It includes fabric inspection, in-line and final inspections, testing, and process improvement to ensure that garments meet customer requirements.

2. What is the difference between Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC)?

✅ Answer:

• QA (Quality Assurance) is a preventive approach focused on improving processes to avoid defects before production starts.
• QC (Quality Control) is a corrective approach that involves checking finished products for defects and ensuring they meet quality standards.

Example:
QA ensures the right fabric, stitching methods, and trained workers are used, while QC inspects the final garment for stitching errors, measurement issues, or defects.

3. What are the key stages of quality inspection in garment manufacturing?

✅ Answer:
The key stages of quality inspection include:

1. Pre-Production Inspection – Checking fabric, trims, patterns, and samples.
2. In-Line Inspection – Monitoring stitching, seam quality, and finishing during production.
3. End-Line Inspection – Checking the final garment for defects before packaging.
4. Final Inspection – Performing an AQL (Acceptable Quality Level) check before shipment.

4. What is the AQL standard in garment quality inspection?

✅ Answer:
AQL (Acceptable Quality Level) is a globally recognized sampling method used in garment inspection to determine the maximum number of acceptable defects. Common AQL levels in apparel include:

• AQL 1.5 – High-quality requirement (e.g., luxury brands).
• AQL 2.5 – Standard quality for most clothing brands.
• AQL 4.0 – Basic quality requirement (e.g., budget-friendly garments).

5. What are common garment defects, and how do you handle them?

✅ Answer:
Common defects in garments include:

• Stitching Defects – Loose threads, open seams, skipped stitches.
• Fabric Defects – Stains, weaving faults, color shading issues.
• Measurement Issues – Size variations, incorrect fit.

To handle defects:

1. Identify the root cause.
2. Implement corrective actions (e.g., retraining workers, improving machine calibration).
3. Reinspect before shipment.

6. How do you ensure garment quality meets buyer requirements?

✅ Answer:
To meet buyer requirements:

• Follow buyer-approved samples and tech packs.
• Use standardized operating procedures (SOPs) for production.
• Conduct regular inspections and AQL-based final checks.
• Ensure proper labeling, packing, and documentation.

7. How do you manage quality issues if a large batch of garments has defects?

✅ Answer:
If a large batch has defects:

1. Analyze defects to identify patterns.
2. Separate defective pieces and assess rework feasibility.
3. Improve processes to prevent future defects.
4. Discuss with production teams to implement corrective actions.
5. Negotiate with buyers on possible solutions (discount, rework, or remake).

8. What is your experience with quality management tools?

✅ Answer:
Some common quality management tools in garments include:

• 6 Sigma (DMAIC): For process improvement and defect reduction.
• 5S Methodology: For workplace organization and efficiency.
• Ishikawa (Fishbone) Diagram: For root cause analysis of defects.
• Pareto Analysis (80/20 Rule): To identify the most common defects affecting quality.

9. How do you stay updated with the latest garment quality standards?

✅ Answer:
I stay updated by:

• Attending training and workshops on textile testing and quality control.
• Following international standards like ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and Oeko-Tex.
• Reading industry reports and buyer compliance guidelines.

10. Why should we hire you as a QA professional?

✅ Answer:
I have strong experience in garment quality assurance, including fabric inspection, in-line and final inspections, AQL standards, and defect prevention strategies. I am skilled in team coordination, root cause analysis, and process improvement to ensure high-quality garments and reduce rework costs. My ability to implement QA best practices can help improve production efficiency and customer satisfaction.

11. What is the Quality of Clothes?

The quality of clothes refers to how well a garment is made in terms of fabric, stitching, durability, comfort, and overall finish. High-quality clothing lasts longer, maintains its shape and color, and provides a good fit and feel.

12. How to Check Clothing Quality Before Buying?

✅ Feel the fabric – It should be soft, breathable, and strong.
✅ Check the seams – They should be straight, even, and secure.
✅ Stretch and release – The fabric should return to its original shape.
✅ Look for defects – Avoid clothes with loose threads, stains, or uneven stitching.
✅ Test zippers and buttons – They should work smoothly and be firmly attached.

13. What is GSM in Fabric?

GSM (Grams per Square Meter) is a measurement that indicates the weight of fabric per square meter. It helps determine the thickness, density, and durability of the fabric. Higher GSM fabrics are typically thicker and more durable, while lower GSM fabrics are lighter and more breathable.

14. Why is GSM Important in Garments?

1. Determines Fabric Strength: Higher GSM fabrics are stronger and last longer.
2. Affects Comfort & Wearability: Lighter GSM fabrics are airy, while higher GSM provides warmth.
3. Impacts Suitability for Seasons:
   • Low GSM – Ideal for summer (breathable & lightweight).
   • High GSM – Suitable for winter (warm & insulating).
4. Helps in Cost Calculation: Higher GSM fabrics usually cost more due to their durability and material density.

15. How to Measure GSM of Fabric?

1. Cut a fabric sample (10 cm x 10 cm)
2. Weigh the sample in grams using a precision scale.
3. Multiply the weight by 100 to get GSM.

16. How to Classify Fabrics by GSM?

Fabrics can be classified into three categories based on GSM:

17. How to Identify 100% Cotton Fabric?

If you want to check whether a fabric is 100% cotton, you can use four main methods: Touch & Feel, Burn Test, Water Absorption Test, and Label Verification.

18. How to Check Cloth Quality Before Buying?

To ensure good quality clothing, check these key factors: fabric, stitching, durability, finishing, and fit.

✔ Feel the Fabric: Soft, breathable, and comfortable fabrics indicate high quality.
✔ Check Thickness (GSM): Higher GSM fabrics are denser and more durable.
✔ Test Stretch & Recovery: Stretch the fabric slightly and see if it returns to shape.
✔ Check for Pilling: Rub the fabric lightly—if small balls form, it may be low quality.
✔ Color Fastness: Rub a damp white cloth on the fabric—if color transfers, it may fade after washing.

👉 Tip: Natural fibers (cotton, wool, silk) usually indicate higher quality than synthetic ones.

19. How to check cloth Stitching & Construction quality?

✔ Check Seam Strength: Look inside the garment—strong seams mean longer durability.
✔ Count Stitches per Inch (SPI): More stitches per inch = stronger and better-made fabric.
✔ Check for Loose Threads: Loose or uneven threads suggest poor manufacturing.
✔ Align Patterns & Stripes: Good-quality clothes have well-matched seams in prints/stripes.

👉 Tip: Gently pull a seam—if it opens easily, the stitching is weak.

20. How to check cloth Finishing & Appearance quality?

✔ Smooth Surface: No visible defects, snags, or irregular weaving.
✔ Proper Pressing: Well-ironed and wrinkle-free garments indicate quality control.
✔ Secure Zippers & Buttons: Zippers should move smoothly; buttons should be tightly sewn.

👉 Tip: Flip the garment inside out—if it looks as neat as the outside, it’s well-made.

21. How to check cloth Finishing & Appearance quality?

✔ Shrinkage Control: Pre-washed fabrics don’t shrink much after washing.
✔ Check Labels: Look for washing instructions and fiber composition.
✔ Check for Breathability: Hold the fabric up to light—excessive transparency may mean it’s too thin.

👉 Tip: Good-quality clothes hold their shape after multiple washes.

22. How to Identify Polyester Fabric?

Polyester is a synthetic fabric made from petroleum-based products. If you’re trying to identify polyester or its blend in clothing, you can use several methods, including visual inspection, touch, smell, and burn test

23. What is the Weight of Linen?

The weight of linen fabric is typically measured in grams per square meter (GSM) or ounces per yard. The weight of linen determines its thickness, durability, and suitability for different uses.

24. Which Linen Weight is Right for You?

• For Light, Breezy Fabrics: Go for lightweight linen (120-180 GSM).
• For Versatile, Everyday Use: Medium weight linen (180-220 GSM) is ideal for shirts, dresses, and casual wear.
• For Durable, Winter-Ready Linen: Choose heavyweight linen (220-300 GSM) for structured garments like pants, jackets, and coats.

25. What is Extra Heavyweight Linen (300+ GSM)

✔ GSM Range: 300+ grams per square meter
✔ Use: Used for heavier garments like overcoats, bags, and furnishing fabric like upholstery.
✔ Characteristics: Extremely durable and long-lasting. It is less flexible and may be more rigid, but it provides maximum durability.

26. Heavyweight Linen (220-300 GSM)

✔ GSM Range: 220-300 grams per square meter
✔ Use: Best for trousers, jackets, coats, upholstery, and curtains.
✔ Characteristics: More durable, with a thicker feel. This weight of linen is great for winter wear and home textiles. It retains its shape better and is more resistant to wear and tear.

These QA interview questions and answers will help you prepare confidently for your job interview in the garment industry. Let me know if you need more! 😊