Flat Sketching
Flat sketching is a fundamental skill in fashion design where designers create two-dimensional, technical drawings of garments as they would appear when laid flat. These drawings, also called "flats" or "technical drawings," are like detailed blueprints for clothing that show exactly how a garment should be constructed. Unlike artistic fashion illustrations, flat sketches are precise, to-scale drawings that manufacturers use to understand garment details, measurements, and construction requirements. Think of it as the universal language that helps designers communicate their ideas clearly to pattern makers and manufacturers.
Examples in Resumes
Created detailed Flat Sketches for a 20-piece summer collection
Developed technical Flat Sketching packages for overseas manufacturing
Used Adobe Illustrator to produce Technical Flats and Flat Sketches for denim collection
Typical job title: "Fashion Technical Designers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Fashion Technical Designers
Online Communities
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you ensure technical flat sketches are accurately interpreted by overseas manufacturers?
Expected Answer: A senior designer should discuss creating detailed specification sheets, including measurements, construction notes, and multiple views of the garment. They should mention experience with clear communication methods and solving production issues.
Q: How do you manage a technical design package for a full collection?
Expected Answer: Should explain organizing multiple designs, maintaining consistency across styles, managing revisions, and coordinating with pattern makers and manufacturers while meeting deadlines.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What software do you use for flat sketching and why?
Expected Answer: Should be able to discuss common design software like Adobe Illustrator, explaining its benefits for creating accurate technical drawings and sharing files with manufacturers.
Q: How do you indicate specific construction details in your flat sketches?
Expected Answer: Should explain methods for showing seams, stitching types, closures, and special details clearly in technical drawings, including proper notation and callouts.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is the difference between a fashion illustration and a flat sketch?
Expected Answer: Should explain that flat sketches are technical, precise drawings showing exact construction details, while fashion illustrations are artistic renderings meant to convey style and mood.
Q: What basic elements must be included in a flat sketch?
Expected Answer: Should mention front and back views, construction details, stitching lines, placement of closures, and proper proportions of the garment.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic garment flat sketching
- Understanding of garment construction
- Basic Adobe Illustrator skills
- Knowledge of fashion terminology
Mid (2-5 years)
- Detailed technical packages creation
- Advanced digital design tools
- Understanding of manufacturing processes
- Ability to communicate with manufacturers
Senior (5+ years)
- Full collection technical development
- Team leadership and training
- Advanced problem-solving in production
- Process optimization and efficiency
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to use industry-standard design software
- Lack of understanding of basic garment construction
- Poor attention to detail in technical drawings
- No knowledge of manufacturing processes
