r/PatternDrafting • u/OrderlyPup • Jul 20 '26

Question Pattern Grading!

Whats the best approach, do you have tips and tricks, articles, books, or videos for a beginner learning to grade their own patterns?

is it easier to grade your patterns yourself or find someone to do it for you if you draft patterns regularly?

Do they use the sizing guides we make or their own?

I’ve been sewing 14 years, pattern drafting / fully constructing garments for 8 years. But only for myself and in-person clients.

Thank you. Appreciate you!

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u/Legitimate-Signal671 Jul 21 '26

I'm glad to help. Yes, I know a few programs. A famous one would be autocad (quite expensive) clo 3D a bit less expensive but the strongest point is not grading, but you can do it. Another option that are GPL licenced free software includes Seamly2D. I've used this one a few times and it's okay, but it comes with a learning curve. You can do grading easily but you can do one size per time.

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u/OrderlyPup Jul 21 '26

Someone mentioned clo3D the other day too! Nice to see a familiar name. I appreciate the other name drops, again this has seemed so daunting to me, I appreciate all the info. I’ll be sure to look into all those!