Patternmaking is the art of constructing a pattern to make a perfect fitting garment. You use certain design and measurement for a style, and then shape the pattern on paper based on the dimensions. Patternmaking started as far back as the fifteen century. It is one of the first steps taken to manufacture well tailored clothing. It requires a lot of technical skills, knowledge and practice. One has to go through an apprenticeship program to enter this line of work.

Patternmaking involves creating designs, marking, grading sizes, plot layout, and design detail for a clothing manufacture. Patternmaking can be learnt manually or by using computer tools and techniques. It is based on using measurements relating to the contour of the body. If you are a creative person, it is a very wide and interesting field of work. The most common method of patternmaking is called the Flat method.  It is preferably used because it is easy and accurate. Every step taken to learn this program leds to more experience and creativity to make beautiful designs of clothing.

Patternmaking in today’s computerized age, is mostly done by computers for the fast pace fashion industry. One work pattern created can then be used to modify parts of the pattern for different sizes and styles. Once the pattern is made on paper, it is tested by transferring the pattern on the fabric with the necessary markings. Then made into a sample and tested by sewing the different pieces together to make sure the style is correctly designed.

Patternmaking is done for every type of garment: military, sports, work, school, medical uniforms, theatrical costumes, leisure clothing, shirts, pants or dresses. The patternmaker uses the pattern to create different designs and styles. It is then used to be adjusted to fit varying sizes and sent to the manufacturer for production of the garment. Once a pattern is used to fit certain size, it can be modified to create different styles by adding more details to the pattern.

Today’s technology is quite advanced in patternmaking, to make changes in patterns and designs very quickly to suit the fast pace of fashion. A designer can use software such as Fashion CAD to create patterns from scratch in a few simple steps. This technology also assists in eliminating many tasks associated with making patterns from scratch.

Patternmaking is an enjoyable skill to develop. Once you understand the concepts of making patterns, you will able to make good tailored garments. You can also have the option of selling your patterns once you find how easy it can be done. Patternmaking is essential for proper fitting clothing.

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