Understanding Pattern Cutting and the Fashion Cycle
In this episode we answer that burning question that you all ask….
“What the hell is a PATTERN MAKER?!”
How we describe our job:
“Clothing is made up of flat puzzle pieces that come together and make a 3d form…these pieces are called a pattern, and a pattern cutter is in charge of deciding the shape and size of those pieces and how they fit together.”
The Fashion Cycle, in brief:
- Design brief or sketch from the designer to the pattern cutter
- 1st Pattern development
- Give the pattern to the cutter to cut the fabric
- Machinist sews up the sample
- Toile is complete
- Fit the toile with the designer and decide on what amendments to do
- 2nd pattern development…Altering the pattern based on the fit
- Real sample development – repeat cutting and sewing
- Sample goes down the runway or lookbook/photoshoot/presentation
- Sample goes to sales and showrooms, where external buyers put in orders
- Production development based on sales/orders- Sample fittings, pattern alterations and Pre-production (PP) fittings
- Grading – ready for factories – patterns and fabric sent to factories for production
- Shipping, QC and shop floor
Is there a topic you’d like us to cover? We’d love to hear from you! Contact Kathryn and Caroline directly with any comments / feedback on fashionhalfcut@gmail.com. Alternatively you can reach out on instagram @fashionhalfcut.
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