Grading
Grading in fashion design refers to the process of adjusting a base pattern into different sizes. It's like taking one perfect design in a medium size and creating versions of it in small, large, and other sizes while keeping the style and proportions correct. This is essential for making clothing that fits different body types and ensuring consistency across a clothing line. The term might also appear as "pattern grading" or "size grading" in job descriptions. This skill is crucial for mass production of clothing, as it allows one design to be manufactured in multiple sizes efficiently.
Examples in Resumes
Created size charts and performed Grading for women's wear collection
Utilized computer-aided design software for Pattern Grading of children's clothing line
Managed Size Grading projects for major retail brands
Typical job title: "Pattern Graders"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Pattern Graders
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you approach grading a complex design with multiple style lines across a full size range?
Expected Answer: Should explain their systematic approach to maintaining design integrity across sizes, including how they handle challenging elements like ruffles or asymmetrical designs, and mention experience with different body types and size ranges.
Q: Tell me about a time when you had to develop grading rules for a new market with different size requirements.
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate experience in creating new size specifications, understanding of different market needs, and ability to adapt grading rules for different demographics.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What factors do you consider when grading between sizes?
Expected Answer: Should mention proportional changes, maintaining style lines, consideration of fabric properties, and understanding of body measurements and their relationships.
Q: How do you ensure accuracy in your grading work?
Expected Answer: Should discuss quality control methods, measurement checking procedures, and sample testing processes.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is the difference between grading even and uneven intervals?
Expected Answer: Should explain basic concepts of size intervals and how measurements might change differently between sizes.
Q: What basic measurements do you need to grade a simple shirt?
Expected Answer: Should list essential measurements like chest, waist, length, sleeve length, and shoulder width, showing understanding of basic garment construction.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic pattern grading concepts
- Understanding of body measurements
- Knowledge of size charts
- Basic computer skills for pattern making software
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex pattern grading
- Multiple size range experience
- Technical specification creation
- Problem-solving fit issues
Senior (5+ years)
- Advanced grading techniques
- Multiple market expertise
- Team leadership
- Standard development
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic body measurements and proportions
- Lack of experience with pattern making software
- Unable to explain basic grading concepts
- No understanding of different fabric properties and their impact on grading
Related Terms
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
Automated Scorecards in ATS Systems: Your Secret Weapon for Smarter Hiring Decisions
Refining Job Descriptions to Expand Applicant Pools: Casting a Wider Talent Net
Micro-Internships: The Game-Changer in Project-Based Learning
