This article presents a proposal for applying lean manufacturing concepts to a sewing production line from a typical apparel company that produces knit garments for export, in order to reduce lead time, in-process inventory and processing delays. Using value stream map and seven wastes approach, the paper presents and analyzes the current configuration of a typical sewing line, identifying the most important wastes throughout the process. It proposes a lean production system consisting of five elements, aimed at reducing the main factors of waste caused by the conventional production system: a) reducing the size of the line, b) implementation of a unit production system), c) implementation of a line-controlled load system (pull system), d) implementation of group incentives, and e) increasing delivery frequency of outgoing garments to finishing department. As a result, the proposed model is able to reduce lead time, cycle time, in-process inventory and unnecessary movements.