How to Ace Garment Fittings: A Pattern Maker's Guide

Preparing for garment fittings as a pattern maker is not just a task; it’s a vital part of the design journey. This phase connects your design ideas with the final product, ensuring that the clothing fits perfectly according to the specifications. A well-executed fitting can save an immense amount of time and avoid costly revisions later.

Understand the Garment

Before entering the fitting room, it is crucial to have a comprehensive understanding of the garment. This involves measuring the garment meticulously and inspecting every seam, stitch, and finish. For instance, if you are working on a fitted dress, take special care to measure around the bust, waist, and hips. Even a slight variation of 1/2 inch in these areas can significantly impact the fit.

Additionally, make detailed notes about any potential fit problems that might arise during the fitting. Understanding the fabric behavior, its drape, and any previous issues with similar designs can help you preemptively identify problems.

Prepare the Fit Model

The fit model must represent the intended audience for the garment. It is essential to ensure that the model’s measurements are up-to-date; professionals often recommend measuring fit models every month. For example, if the industry standard size is a 10, the fit model should closely match that with measurements generally around 38-31-40.

Documenting these measurements not only clarifies expectations but also ensures consistency across fittings. A fit model whose size does not match the design specifications can result in a misunderstanding regarding fit.

Self-fitting a shirt.

Plan the Fitting Session

Fittings typically last anywhere from 10 to 15 minutes per garment, depending on the complexity involved. Before the fitting, outline areas to focus on, such as shoulder seams or hem length. Concentrating solely on fit issues—not design elements, costs, or color choices—is crucial. This focused strategy streamlines the fitting process, ensuring that the important issues are prioritized.

Studies show that dedicating specific time to identify fit problems can reduce overall fitting time by up to 30 percent, which is vital in fast-paced environments.

Taking Detailed Notes

During the fitting, observe intently and document everything meticulously. Take notes not just about what needs improvement but also about what works well. For example, if the garment has excellent shoulder definition, make a note of it. Use photographs from multiple angles—front, back, and side—to capture specific problem areas visually. This information will be invaluable for future fittings and production stages.

Annotated drawings can also be beneficial; marking areas for adjustments on a sketch can help communicate changes effectively to the design team.

Final Adjustments

The ultimate goal of the fitting is either to correct any fit issues or confirm that the garment is ready for production. If adjustments are necessary, ensure clear communication with the design team to make sure everyone's on the same page. For example, if the waist seems too tight, specify whether it requires releasing 1/2 inch or more.

Remember, a smooth fitting process not only refines the garment but also promotes teamwork. When everyone's aligned, operations run more smoothly, leading to better outcomes.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for garment fittings as a pattern maker involves careful planning, sharp attention to detail, and effective communication. By fully understanding the garment, accurately measuring the fit model, and maintaining a structured approach during fittings, you can create beautiful, well-fitting garments that satisfy market demands.

Refining these skills doesn’t just help you master each fitting; it significantly contributes to the overall success of the clothing line. By following these guidelines, every fitting becomes an opportunity to move closer to the ultimate goal: delivering well-crafted garments that customers love. Remember, fit is King. Reyburn

Apparel Fit Engineer Reyburn Brown

The Reyburn School of Apparel Pattern Making