Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Sewing • Flatlock • Coverstitch

Spreading

Term from Apparel Manufacturing industry explained for recruiters

Spreading is a fundamental process in clothing manufacturing where fabric is laid out in multiple layers on a long table before cutting. Think of it like making a layered sandwich - but with fabric instead of bread. This step is crucial because it allows manufacturers to cut many identical pieces at once, which saves time and ensures consistency. The person doing this job needs to make sure there are no wrinkles or tension in the fabric, as any mistakes at this stage will affect all the garments made from those layers. It's similar to laying out wrapping paper before cutting - it needs to be smooth and even for the best results.

Examples in Resumes

Managed spreading operations for a high-volume clothing factory producing 10,000 units daily

Trained new operators in proper spreading and fabric handling techniques

Reduced fabric waste by 15% through efficient spreading methods

Typical job title: "Spreading Operators"

Also try searching for:

Spreading Machine Operator Fabric Layer Fabric Spreading Technician Textile Spreader Spreading Room Supervisor Cut and Spread Operator

Where to Find Spreading Operators

Professional Associations

Online Resources

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle spreading different types of fabrics with different characteristics?

Expected Answer: A senior spreader should explain how different fabrics require different tension, laying methods, and tools. They should mention experience with delicate fabrics, stretchy materials, and heavy textiles, and how to adjust spreading techniques accordingly.

Q: How do you manage quality control in a spreading department?

Expected Answer: Should discuss checking for fabric defects, ensuring proper tension, monitoring spreading speed, training staff, and implementing quality checkpoints throughout the process.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What methods do you use to minimize fabric waste during spreading?

Expected Answer: Should explain proper fabric alignment, careful end-piece management, and how to plan spreading according to marker requirements and fabric width.

Q: How do you maintain spreading equipment to ensure consistent performance?

Expected Answer: Should discuss regular cleaning, checking alignment, maintaining proper tension settings, and identifying when maintenance is needed.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic steps in the spreading process?

Expected Answer: Should be able to describe laying fabric layers, checking for wrinkles, maintaining proper tension, and basic operation of spreading equipment.

Q: How do you check fabric quality before spreading?

Expected Answer: Should mention examining fabric for defects, checking width consistency, and ensuring the fabric meets specifications before starting the spreading process.