Computer Applications in Fashion Technology
What the exam tests
CAD/CAM uses in pattern making, grading, marker making, illustration and production, plus basic digital file and calculation knowledge.
Core rules
- Pattern CAD (Gerber, Lectra, Optitex) is used for drafting, grading, marker making and data exchange; 3D virtual sampling reduces physical samples.
- Vector graphics (Illustrator, CorelDRAW) suit technical flats because they scale without loss; raster graphics (Photoshop) suit textures and retouching.
- CMYK is for print; RGB is for screen.
- A marker is the layout of pattern pieces on fabric. Marker efficiency = total pattern area ÷ marker area × 100.
- PLM systems track styles, bills of materials, samples and approvals.
Worked example
A marker contains pattern pieces with a total area of 4.6 m² and is laid on 5.0 m² of fabric. Reasoning: efficiency = 4.6 ÷ 5.0 × 100 = 92%. The remaining 8% is waste between pieces and at the ends. If the marker is lengthened without adding pieces, efficiency falls because the same pattern area is spread over more fabric.
Traps
- Confusing marker efficiency with fabric yield; yield also depends on width and shrinkage.
- Drawing technical flats as raster images and then enlarging them.
- Assuming CAD grading is automatic without grade rules.