Pattern making & grading
Pattern making and grading for clothing brands.
Develop the patterns behind your garment, from the base size to the size range you plan to offer. Flatfell works from your design, references or existing garment to translate the intended shape, fit and construction into pattern files.
For brands developing a new style, refining an existing pattern or preparing an approved base for additional sizes.
Work directly with LuísIndependent studio · Spain
What you take forward
A base pattern and, where contracted, a graded set of patterns in the size range and file format agreed for your project.
Start with the fit you want
A useful pattern brief brings together the design, intended wearer, fit, measurements and fabric behaviour. We review these inputs before setting the scope. An approved base pattern is the reference for grading; changes to that base need to be resolved before extending the size range.
What your project can include
- Development of a base pattern for the agreed garment and base size.
- Pattern adjustments within the agreed design and review rounds.
- Grading across the contracted sizes, using agreed size specifications and grade rules.
- Identification of pattern pieces and relevant construction information.
- Delivery of the agreed files, with their version and the changes made.
What to share at the start
Send the design or reference garment, intended materials, fit references, base-size measurements and required size range. If a manufacturer is already involved, include its file requirements. Existing patterns can be reviewed before deciding whether adjustment or redevelopment is the better route.
How we work
- Review the design, fabric, fit requirements and available references.
- Agree the base size, deliverables, file compatibility and review process.
- Develop or adjust the base pattern and complete the contracted validation and corrections.
- Grade the agreed base if included, then deliver the identified files.
Connect the pattern to the next stage
If you need support with physical samples, this can be included as a separate part of the same project. Observations from the sample can then feed into planned pattern corrections. A tech pack can also document the construction and measurement decisions for your manufacturer.
Practical details
Before we begin.
The base size, size range, files and review rounds are defined in your proposal.
Can I commission pattern making without grading?
Yes. You can start with one base size and commission grading once the base is approved. The proposal separates these deliverables so you can choose the stage you need.
Can you work with an existing pattern?
Yes, subject to a review of the files, measurements and intended changes. The quote will distinguish adjustments from work that requires a new base pattern.
Which file formats can you deliver?
Delivery formats and compatibility with your manufacturer's workflow are confirmed before work begins. Share the required format with your enquiry so it can be checked before a quote is agreed.
Does the service include a physical fitting?
Physical sampling, fitting arrangements and sample reviews are included when specified in the proposal. They are useful steps for checking real fabric behaviour and fit; their requirements depend on the garment.
How are sizes, revisions and pricing agreed?
The quote states the base size, graded size range, review rounds and required outputs. Complexity, existing inputs and validation work affect the fee and schedule. Changes to the design or size range are reviewed before additional work starts.
Let's develop your next garment
Build the pattern behind your next style.
Share your design, intended fit, materials and size range. We can define the right starting point.