Critique Of Pattern Grading

Pattern grading is the process of turning base size or sample size into different sizes depending on size specification or grading increments. This concept is considered to be an important topic in fashion related courses.  It helps in creating differently sized and shaped garments of the same design.

Pattern grading is necessary for a designer as it helps them to make garments that can be donned by people with different body shapes and sizes.  Grading can be done manually or digitally with specialized softwares. The increments are referred to as garment grading rules. These rules differ from market area to market area and each level has different grading rules.

Grading is important before approaching sample manufacturers or factories because they need exact measurements for specific patterns for ordering garments. This technique determines how one dress fits all sizes. It does not create shape but just increases or decreases size of original shape. Having different sizes for each garment fills out minimum garment order cost effectively.

Generally a pattern is developed in one size and is graded up and down to fit all the standard sizes. Cut and spread, Pattern shifting and computer grading are the three methods used for grading. The three methods have their positives and negatives, so one cannot be said to be superior over other.

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