# Stitch Authority resource comparison Generated: 2026-08-04T18:08:13.757Z Comparison: This file preserves the published decision metadata for the selected routes. It is not a recommendation, provider approval, compliance decision, or record of project-specific due diligence. ## 1. ZDHC Manufacturing Restricted Substances List Permanent record: Source page: - Primary job: Check standards - Area: Standards - For: Apparel brands - Location or jurisdiction: Global - Access: Open access - Format: Reference - Source type: Industry organization - Linked page reviewed: 2026-07-21 - Next review due: 2026-10-19 ### Best for Chemical-input controls during manufacturing ### What the source establishes ZDHC's current scope defines the MRSL as restrictions on intentional use of listed substances in commercial chemical formulations for textile, leather, rubber, foam, adhesive, and trim processing. Covered inputs include cleaners, dyes, auxiliaries, coatings, finishing agents, maintenance, wastewater-treatment, sanitation, and pest-control chemicals. ZDHC's help centre identifies version 3.1 as the current official MRSL and distinguishes it from restrictions measured in finished products. ### Know before using The MRSL controls manufacturing inputs within its stated scope. It does not by itself prove a facility's chemical inventory, implementation, worker protection, emissions, wastewater performance, formulation conformance, or finished-product compliance. Verify the current version, law, brand program, safety rules, chemical-product certificates and status, facility records, and finished-product RSL and testing requirements. ## 2. CFDA Production Directory Permanent record: Source page: - Primary job: Source production - Area: Production - For: Apparel brands - Location or jurisdiction: United States ยท North America - Access: Open access - Format: Directory - Source type: Industry organization - Linked page reviewed: 2026-07-21 - Next review due: 2027-01-17 ### Best for Building a US manufacturer shortlist ### What the source establishes CFDA publishes this as an open-access directory of United States fashion contract manufacturers with no registration required. The page supports sorting by service, product, category, and sample or production minimums and publishes an email route for manufacturers to add, update, or remove a listing. ### Know before using CFDA states that it collects basic business information but does not audit, certify, or monitor the listed facilities, and that inclusion is not endorsement, recommendation, a quality guarantee, or CFDA membership. Verify identity, ownership, capabilities, materials, equipment, minimums, capacity, price, lead time, quality systems, labor and environmental practices, compliance, references, contracts, and product fit directly before selection. ## 3. Threadloop Sewing Pattern Database Permanent record: Source page: - Primary job: Find patterns & fit - Area: Patterns & fit - For: Makers - Location or jurisdiction: Global - Access: Free account - Format: Community - Source type: Community database - Linked page reviewed: 2026-07-21 - Next review due: 2027-01-17 ### Best for Searching current and out-of-print sewing patterns ### What the source establishes Threadloop's official guide describes an independent, fully crowdsourced database covering available and out-of-print sewing patterns. Its search supports pattern type, fabric type, age group, body type, cup size, level, format, file features, language, measurements, availability, and other filters; members can also track a stash, wishlist, projects, reviews, and discussions. ### Know before using Community members add and quality-control the records, so confirm sizing, measurements, fabric suggestions, format, availability, errata, license, and purchase terms with the designer or publisher. Adding an entry to a stash does not provide the pattern files. Saved searches and private PDF storage are paid Plus features, and a listing or review does not establish pattern accuracy or fit. ## Next checks 1. Remove any route whose audience, jurisdiction, access, or scope does not match the job. 2. Open the permanent record and source page for every remaining route. 3. Recheck facts that can change after the listed review date. 4. Verify project-specific capability, terms, test evidence, and legal requirements with the responsible source or provider. 5. Record the reason for the final choice outside Stitch Authority.