CAD software that is not compatible with the equipment and file formats used in production may require additional conversions, manual checks and higher operating costs. This article explains what to check before purchasing CAD software for dressmaking patterns.
What features might a CAD suite for pattern-making include?
A CAD suite for the garment industry may include several modules, ranging from pattern design and grading to nesting and preparing files for cutting. The features available and how they interact with one another vary from one solution to another.
- Pattern digitisation (from paper to digital). A pattern drawn or constructed on paper or card is converted into a digital file, usually using a digitising table (a surface with sensors on which the outline is traced with a cursor) or, in newer versions, via a dedicated scanner. From this point onwards, the pattern exists as a set of digitally editable points and lines, not merely as a physical object.
The software must be able to import the formats used by clients, suppliers and existing equipment, including exchange formats such as DXF-AAMA, where these form part of the production workflow. The import must also be tested in terms of scale, dimensions, notches, thread lines and other technical information relating to the pattern. - Automatic grading by size. Starting from a base pattern, rules for increasing or decreasing the sizes within the production range are defined at each point on the outline. The CAD software automatically applies these rules and generates the entire set of sizes, without the patternmaker having to redraw each variant manually.
- Marker planning – optimisation of fabric consumption. The pattern pieces, in all required sizes, are arranged on the fabric surface so that the unused space (‘waste’) is minimised. The nesting algorithm takes into account the width of the fabric roll, the direction of the weave and, where applicable, the fabric pattern (stripes, checks, prints).
- Data preparation and transfer to the cutting system. Once the nesting is complete, the data is exported in a format accepted by the CAM system or the cutter. Depending on the configuration, the transfer may be direct or may go via the machine’s control software. At this stage, it is essential to verify that the dimensions, orientation of the pieces, notches, cutting lines and other information required for production are correct
Compatibility with the cutting system: the first technical criterion to check
Compatibility between the CAD software, the nesting module and the cutting system directly affects the continuity of the production flow.
The check should not be based solely on the file extension. Two systems may recognise the same format but interpret units of measurement, sizes, seam allowances, notches, thread lines, orientation or part names differently.
Prior to purchase, the supplier must test the entire workflow using patterns and layouts representative of the company’s production: importing existing files, modifying and grading patterns, creating layouts and transferring them to the cutter.
A tested integration reduces manual conversions and checks, but does not automatically eliminate every possibility of error.
Selection criteria
Criterion | Why it matters | What to ask the supplier |
Import of existing files | The pattern library must be transferred without any reworking or loss of information | Can you test the import of our patterns and grading rules? |
Compatibility with the cutting system | Additional conversions may cause delays and errors | Have you tested the full workflow with our cutter model? |
Grading | It matters how the rules are defined, modified and reused | How are sizes updated when the base pattern is modified? |
Fitting | This affects fabric consumption and set-up time | Can you compare the result using some of the markers we use? |
Total cost | The price includes licences, modules, updates, maintenance and additional workstations | What is the estimated total cost over three or five years? |
Implementation and support | Adoption depends on configuration, training and support | What does implementation include, and how quickly does technical support respond? |
Common mistakes when choosing
The CAD software and the cutter are chosen separately, without a full workflow test
The order in which the two systems are purchased is not relevant, but the lack of a comprehensive check is. The CAD software, the nesting module and the cutter must be tested together before the investment is made, including by importing existing patterns and running a file on the cutting equipment.
Features are purchased but not used
Many CAD packages include modules such as 3D simulation, material libraries or advanced integrations that remain unused in day-to-day production. The result is higher purchase and maintenance costs for features that the team never ends up using.
Modules should be chosen based on the company’s actual workflow. 3D simulation can be valuable for virtual prototyping, product validation and reducing the number of physical samples, but the investment must be justified by the actual use of the feature. For other companies, priorities may include 2D processing speed, grading, sizing or integration with production.
Long-term licensing costs are overlooked
The decision to purchase is frequently made based on the initial price, without a clear projection of costs over three or five years: annual maintenance, the cost of additional workstations as the team expands, and the differences between a perpetual licence and a subscription-based model. A solution that is cheaper to purchase may result in higher costs in the long term if the licensing model is not analysed carefully.
The migration of existing patterns has not been tested
A company may have thousands of templates, grading rules and sizing tables created in the previous system. If their transfer is not tested prior to purchase, implementation may involve manual corrections, loss of information or the rebuilding of part of the library. The demonstration must also be carried out on legacy files, not just on examples prepared by the supplier.
Open CAD solution or integrated ecosystem?
An open CAD solution can communicate with equipment from multiple manufacturers and offers greater flexibility when the company changes or uses multiple cutting systems. However, each integration must be verified for the specific formats and equipment used in production.
In an integrated ecosystem, the software and the cutting system are designed or configured to work together, which can simplify data transfer. The choice depends on the company’s priorities: the flexibility to combine multiple brands, or a standardised workflow managed through a single configuration.
What solutions does Texco distribute?
TEXCO distributes Crea Solution for the design, modification, grading and layout of patterns, as well as Bullmer automated cutting systems.
In a project combining the two solutions, compatibility must be checked for the specific cutter model, the formats used and the production workflow configuration. Patterns and layouts can be prepared in Crea Solution and transferred to the cutting system once the integration has been configured and tested.
The advantage for the company is the ability to coordinate evaluation, implementation, training and technical support through a single supplier. However, this does not mean that every Crea Solution and Bullmer configuration is automatically compatible without testing and configuration.
Frequently asked questions about choosing a CAD programme for patterns
Can patterns created in the previously used software be transferred?
Generally speaking, yes, provided the new software can import the existing file formats. However, the transfer must be tested on actual files, as differences may arise regarding dimensions, seam allowances, notches, thread lines or grading rules.
Is it necessary to migrate the entire pattern library?
Not necessarily. The migration can be carried out in stages, starting with patterns currently in production or those used frequently. Before implementation, it must be determined which files are to be transferred automatically and which patterns require checking or correction.
How long does it take to implement a CAD programme?
The duration depends on the number of users, the modules selected, the volume of files to be migrated and integration with the cutting system. Implementation may include installation, format configuration, workflow testing, pattern migration and staff training.
What hardware does the software require?
Requirements vary depending on the modules and the workload. The configuration of the computers, the operating system, storage space, the connection to the cutter and compatibility with the digitising table, scanner or plotter used must be checked.
Who owns the files created in the programme?
The company must check where the designs are stored, in what format they can be exported, and whether they remain accessible if the licence or subscription is not renewed. This is particularly important for cloud-based solutions or proprietary formats.
The next step
Before purchasing, request a demonstration using the patterns, grading rules and nesting configurations employed in your production. The test should include importing the existing library, modifying the patterns, the nesting result and transferring the data to the specific cutting machine model.
The Texco team can analyse your current workflow and configure the CAD solution and cutting system to suit your company’s equipment, materials and production volumes.
Request a technical assessment and a demonstration using your own files.
