Pattern Grader

Pattern Grader: Pattern graders are responsible for changing the shape of pattern pieces to allow for changes from small to larger sizes (S, M, L). This is done by hand using charts or by computer. In small companies they may still grade the patterns by hand, but they are more likely to use a computer.

They put the shape of the standard pattern into the computer. Then place each pattern piece on a digitizing table - a device which tells the computer the position of a point when it is touched with a light pen - and feed in the co-ordinates for various points around its outline. They then use a special computer program to alter the shape for each size needed. The finished pattern may be printed out full size for cutting out the fabric, or passed on to a computerized cutting machine.