PATTERN GRADING FOR EVERY BODY
One-size-fits-all is rarely true when it comes to clothes, and certainly not true when it comes to pattern graders.
Understanding how to make a full size run requires finesse. How many sizes can you add on before you’ve gone too far, and what do you do when your existing grading doesn’t work for your customer anymore? Solving these complex problems requires pattern making experience, precision, collaboration, and an understanding of inclusivity.
PATTERN GRADING FOR READY-TO-WEAR & HOME SEWING PATTERN BRANDS
PATTERN GRADING SERVICES
Includes digital, production-ready pattern files and/or hard copy patterns mailed to you or your manufacturer.
Ideal For:
Clothiers that want to keep long-term customers happy with reliable and consistent sizing
Apparel brands that want to be known for inclusive sizing across petites, straight sizes, and plus sizes
Busy designers ready to focus on their genius and outsource the technical stuff
New designers and fashion startups looking to build long term relationships
Established clothing brands needing reliable solutions
Sewing pattern brands needing graded output as Adobe Illustrator files
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Size Chart Creation
Standardize your fit and help your customers select the correct size the first time with a professionally-vetted size chart.
$100
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Pattern Digitizing
Have the pro turn hard copies of your patterns into digital files, and make pattern storing and sharing easier!
$80
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Pattern Hard Copies
Get a hard copy of your graded patterns printed and sent to your studio, or your manufacturer’s factory.
$3 per yard
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Production Ready Markers
Optimize your production and reduce waste with custom apparel markers
$20 each
“Grading has always been my least favorite task. I am happy to hand off my patterns to Betsy to grade according to my specifications. I receive the graded file in an easy to edit format and the turnaround time works with my release date timing.”
— Kelli, True Bias
The Pattern Grading Process
INQUIRY —
You decide grading your own patterns isn’t worth the stress, and reach out. Smart choice! You’ll tell me what sizes you need, if you have a size chart, and what the final format you need the output in. Then we’re off to the races!
GRADING —
I’ll use your base pattern and sizing chart to quickly and efficiently grade your garment. Ah, the beauty of the digital era. Each size, seam, and notch is checked and double-checked for accuracy.
DELIVERY —
Within two weeks of our start date (but probably sooner!), your patterns have been professionally graded and are ready for production. Digital files will be delivered to your inbox, or if you opted for hard copies, those will be printed and mailed to you or your manufacturer.
ANSWERS TO YOUR QUESTIONS
What types of patterns will you grade?
I offer professional pattern grading services for womens, mens, childrens and plus size apparel, including any type of garment from outerwear to evening gowns.
Can you help me make my grading inclusive?
Yes! Every situation is unique so let’s chat about where you are starting from and where you want to be.
What types of digital files do you work with?
I work with all of the standard digital file formats: .AI (Adobe Illustrator), .DXF, and .PDS.
What do you need from me to grade my patterns?
I will need copies of your base pattern and a basic size chart to accurately grade your patterns. All pattern grading is done digitally; if your base patterns are hard copies, I can digitize them for an additional fee before grading. The size chart you provide must include chest, waist, and hip measurements. Don’t have a size chart? I’d be happy to create one for you for an additional fee.
I want a hard copy of my patterns. How will I receive those?
Hard copy printouts, set up as single size markers, can be mailed to you for an additional fee. Hard copy patterns are printed on a standard lightweight plotter paper, and shipped as a roll.
Can you take an existing sewing pattern and grade up/down to my own size for me?
Unfortunately grading services are scaled for producers. There is a $100 minimum for grading services, so this probably isn’t the most viable solution for your needs.
I love working with sewing pattern designers, apparel brands, and clothing retailers who like to think outside of the box. And in the garment industry, that means making every size look sharp. Do you love working with a pattern grader who is obsessed with fit, incredibly thorough, and incredibly experienced?