Pattern Grading

Accurate pattern grading for apparel manufacturing. Custom specifications and industry-standard sizing are available.

What is Pattern Grading?

Pattern Grading is systematically adjusting a base pattern’s size while preserving its original style and shape. Each apparel style has a defined range of sizes, and grading ensures that the pattern accurately reflects each size’s required proportions and measurements. This is achieved by following the manufacturer’s specific grade rules or size charts.

Prior to grading, the base pattern is digitized to create a digital file that can be easily manipulated and scaled. Once the average size (typically size 8) is approved, the pattern is graded using a set of grade rules. These grade rules serve as a size chart, allowing the manufacturer to systematically increase or decrease the middle-sized pattern to achieve the desired size.

At Top Notch, we specialize in precise pattern grading based on your custom specifications or industry standard. Our expert team excels in accurately grading your patterns to meet the desired sizing requirements for your target audience. We can offer guidance based on industry standards if you need help deciding which sizes to choose from. Trust us to ensure that your graded patterns maintain consistency and proportionality across different sizes.

Close up of a graded paper pattern on table showing the size increase from the base size after being digitized.
Computer software, ModarisV6R1, CAD showing the pattern grading from the base size, ranging sizes from XXXS to XXL

Why is Pattern Grading Important?

Consistent Sizing: Grading ensures that a garment is available in a range of sizes that cater to different body types. By systematically increasing or decreasing the size of a base pattern, grading allows for consistent sizing across the entire size range of a particular apparel style. This helps to meet the diverse needs and preferences of consumers.

Proportional Fit: Grading maintains the proportions of a garment as it transitions from one size to another. Each size variation is carefully adjusted to ensure that the garment retains its intended style, shape, and design details. This ensures that the fit remains balanced and visually appealing across different sizes.

Efficient Production: Grading facilitates efficient production processes. Once the base pattern is graded, it can be used as a template for creating patterns in various sizes. This reduces the need for individually drafting or modifying patterns for each size, saving time and effort during the production phase.

Cost Savings: Grading allows for optimized fabric utilization and material efficiency. By grading patterns, manufacturers can maximize the use of fabric by cutting multiple sizes from a single marker, reducing fabric waste and minimizing production costs.

Our Pattern Grading Services Include The Following:

Well-versed with the Industry Standards

Expertise in industry standards for precise pattern grading that meets current sizing guidelines.

Matching Grading Specs To Tech-Pack

Align your grading specifications seamlessly with your tech pack requirements.

Lectra & Gerber Software

Leverage our expertise in industry-leading Lectra & Gerber software.

24-48 Hour Turn Around Times

We offer speedy turnarounds, ensuring results are delivered within 24-48 hours to maintain efficient production timelines.

Pattern Grading FAQ’s

What are the key factors to consider when grading patterns?

When grading patterns, it is crucial to consider factors such as size increments, which determine the interval between each size; ease allowances, which ensure comfort and movement in different sizes; and proportional adjustments, which maintain the balance and aesthetics of the garment across the size range. These factors collectively contribute to achieving accurate and well-fitting garments for various body types.

Grading plays a vital role in ensuring the overall fit of a garment remains consistent across different sizes. By systematically adjusting the size of the base pattern while preserving its style and shape, grading maintains the intended proportions and design elements of the garment. This ensures that each size retains its desired fit providing a harmonious and visually appealing result.

Yes, patterns can be graded in both directions, allowing for both upsizing and downsizing. Grading techniques are flexible and adaptable, enabling the expansion or reduction of patterns to meet the requirements of various size ranges. Whether it’s scaling up for larger sizes or scaling down for smaller sizes, grading techniques allow for proportional adjustments to ensure accurate fit and consistent styling.

Grading significantly contributes to production efficiency in clothing manufacturing. Manufacturers can create a size chart or set of grade rules by establishing a graded pattern based on a standard size (typically size 8). These rules guide the systematic increase or decrease of the middle-sized pattern to achieve the desired sizes. This standardized approach streamlines the pattern-making process, reducing the need for individual pattern adjustments for each size. The result is improved efficiency, faster production times, and streamlined workflow.