Apparel Patternmaker how-to

How to Grade a Pattern into Sizes

Grading keeps fit across sizes.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Grading keeps fit across sizes. In short: set; apply; check, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Set the base size.

  2. Apply grade rules.

  3. Check proportions.

  4. Check seams match.

  5. Walk the pattern.

  6. Approve.

Safety reminders for apparel patternmakers

  • Use cutting tools safely
  • Use ergonomic setups
  • Protect design files
  • Take breaks

Block · Sloper · Grading · Marker · Muslin · Draping: see the full apparel patternmaker glossary.

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