Historically pattern creation has relied on labor intensive manual methods where plastic or mylar is draped over prototypes, marked and measured, and then cut into pattern pieces. Initial results were seldom accurate as the process was really just educated guesswork.

What’s the problem anyway?

Previous attempts to automate patterning utilized 2D illustration tools or costly proprietary software products which were out of reach for all but the largest Soft Goods manufacturers. What's needed is a simple, cost-effective way to create the 3D model and then to convert it into accurate 2D patterns.

Converting 3D Designs Into 2D Flat Patterns

The introduction of the current generation of 3D to 2D software like ExactFlat disrupts the current guesswork paradigm. Using these tools Designers have the ability to

segment the 3D model into individual 3D pieces,
convert the 3D pieces into 2D patterns and then,
quickly optimize the pattern for sag and strain.

In most cases the entire 3D to 2D process can be complete in a matter of minutes.

With the new generation of 3D to 2D flattening tools like ExactFlat designers can convert their concepts to production ready patterns in minutes.

Not only is this new generation of digital patterning software accurate, fast and cost efficient, but it can be paired with almost any 3D CAD product. This means that manufacturers can now access a virtually unlimited community of 3D designers rather than having to recruit experts or to train their existing designers to work with 3D.

What’s Next?

With 3D CAD and ExactFlat, it’s a simple process to:

Get help developing an accurate digital representation of your design
Customize the model to quickly generate different versions of “sizes”
Convert the 3D design into the desired 2D patterns in minutes

If you want to know more about Digital Design and Patterning and how it supports the workflow for design and production of garments and apparel, click the link below and book time to talk to an expert.