Understanding the Global Apparel ManufacturingProcess 2.02

How our clothing is created…

From Design to Reality… Once a prototype, or example of the

product has been created, then the manufacturing process begins…

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Developing a Production PatternThere are four steps to the process of creating a pattern for a manufactured apparel product:

1. Grading2. Marking3. Spreading4. Cutting

ImageSource: http://www.artec3d.com/upload/iblock/ee2/Pattern-production.jpg

Creating Different Sizes Most apparel products come in various sizes.

Patterns have to be created for each size. This process is called grading.

Image Source: http://www.patternsandgrading.com/sitebuilder/images/grading_only-540x355-540x351.png

How is Grading Done

Grading can be done by: a CAD (Computer Aided Design)

software program or By hand on paper

Developing a Marker Marking is the process that uses a computer or

paper to create an outline of the shape of the pattern piece .

The markers are then placed on the fabric in a way ensure the least amount of wasted fabric possible.

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Spreading the Fabric Spreaders are machines used to place

multiple layers of fabric so they can be cut into pieces ready for assembly.

Cutting It All Out… The cutting process usually involves

one of two primary types of machines:

1. Electric Cutting Knife

2. Laser Cutting Machine

Electric Knife Machine

Computerized Laser Cutter

Assembling the ProductApparel assembly usually involves one of four basic methods:

1. Tailoring/Whole Garment2. Progressive Bundle/Piecework3. Unit Production4. Modular Manufacturing

Tailoring/Whole Garment One person creates the design, pattern and assembles the garment from start to finish.

Image Source:http://images.clickliverpool.com/admin/article/articleimages/1263472034-tailor.jpg

Progressive Bundle/Piecework Each operator does different parts of the

assembly process

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Unit Production This system

involves transporting all of the parts of the product together in a carrier through the entire assembly process.

Image Source: http://img.diytrade.com/cdimg/437786/4273562/0/1189404064/Euratex_Unit_Production_System.jpg

Modular Production Multiple operators work together as a

team to create the product with each individual performing multiple steps.

Standards of Quality ControlWhen measuring the quality of a finished product, there are two different types of quality to consider

• Design Quality• Manufacturing Quality

Design Quality Design quality takes into consideration

the features that are part of the design of a garment. Certain sewing techniques and seam finishes are used on higher quality garments that would not be seen on garments of lesser quality – ie. bound seams, top stitching etc.

Manufacturing QualityManufacturing quality considers the care with which a garment has been created. Workers in this area of inspection would look for: 1. color defects 2. construction defects3. sizing defects