CAD
CAD (Computer-Aided Design) in fashion is like a digital drawing board that helps designers create and modify clothing designs on computers. Instead of only sketching by hand, designers use these special computer programs to draw, adjust, and perfect their designs. Popular fashion CAD programs include Adobe Illustrator, CLO3D, and Optitex. These tools help speed up the design process and make it easier to share designs with manufacturers. Think of it as the digital equivalent of traditional pencil and paper sketching, but with added benefits like easy editing, precise measurements, and the ability to create detailed technical drawings that factories need.
Examples in Resumes
Created technical packages using CAD software for a collection of 30 pieces
Developed Computer-Aided Design patterns for women's wear line
Utilized CAD systems to draft and modify patterns for mass production
Typical job title: "Fashion CAD Designers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Fashion CAD Designers
Online Communities
Professional Networks
Job Boards
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you manage a team working on CAD designs for a large collection?
Expected Answer: Look for answers about organizing files, setting standards for the team, quality control processes, and experience coordinating with manufacturers. They should mention how they ensure consistency across different designers' work.
Q: How do you handle design modifications when there are technical limitations from the manufacturer?
Expected Answer: The candidate should discuss their problem-solving approach, experience working with factories, and ability to adapt designs while maintaining the original creative vision.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What CAD software do you use and how do you choose which one for different tasks?
Expected Answer: They should be familiar with multiple software options and explain when they use each one - for example, one program for technical drawings and another for 3D visualization.
Q: How do you ensure your CAD patterns will translate accurately to physical garments?
Expected Answer: Look for understanding of proper measurements, grading rules, and experience with sample making. They should mention the importance of including proper notches and instructions.
Junior Level Questions
Q: Can you explain the basic process of creating a technical package using CAD?
Expected Answer: Should be able to describe creating flat sketches, adding measurements, writing construction notes, and organizing the information in a clear way.
Q: What's the difference between designing for CAD versus drawing by hand?
Expected Answer: Should understand the benefits of CAD (precision, easy editing, sharing capabilities) while acknowledging the importance of basic drawing skills.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic pattern drafting in CAD
- Creating simple technical drawings
- Understanding measurements and sizing
- Basic garment construction knowledge
Mid (2-5 years)
- Pattern grading and modifications
- Detailed technical package creation
- Multiple CAD software proficiency
- Production pattern preparation
Senior (5+ years)
- Complex pattern development
- Team management and training
- Factory communications
- Advanced technical design solutions
Red Flags to Watch For
- No understanding of garment construction basics
- Unable to work with measurements and size charts
- No experience with technical packages
- Lack of knowledge about production processes
- No practical experience with major CAD software programs
Related Terms
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