Fashion Terms — the Apparel Search fashion terminology directory
The fabric cutting process is the manufacturing step that turns cloth into garments: fabric is cut into pattern pieces following the marker created during marker making and grading. It is a crucial step because precision and efficiency here decide the quality and consistency of everything sewn afterward. The work runs in a set order - machinery and equipment from cutting tables to computerized CNC cutters, the laying of fabric with inspection, spreading and marker placement, the cutting itself, and finally piece marking, bundling and quality control so the cut work reaches the sewing floor organized by size and style.
The fabric cutting process is a crucial step in apparel manufacturing that involves cutting fabric into pattern pieces according to the marker created during marker making and grading. It requires precision and efficiency to ensure the quality and consistency of the final garments. Let's break down the fabric cutting process:
Machinery & Equipment Used for Cutting:
The fabric cutting process relies on specialized machinery and equipment to ensure accurate and efficient cutting. Some of the key tools and machines include:
Cutting Tables: Large, flat tables with a smooth surface that provide ample space for spreading fabric and laying out markers.
Cutting Machines: Various types of cutting machines are used, including:
Straight Knife Cutter: A hand-operated or automated machine with a straight blade used for cutting single layers of fabric.
Round Knife Cutter: Similar to the straight knife cutter but with a round blade, it's often used for cutting curves and smaller production runs.
Band Knife Cutter: Ideal for cutting intricate patterns and curves, this machine has a long, continuous blade.
Die Cutting Machine: Utilized for cutting fabric using pre-designed dies or templates. Common for cutting uniform shapes and components.
Computerized Cutting Systems: These are advanced cutting machines controlled by computers and equipped with digital cameras and laser sensors to precisely follow marker lines. Examples include CNC (Computer Numerical Control) cutters.
Pattern Weights: Used to hold pattern pieces in place on the fabric during cutting.
Cutting Tools: Various cutting tools like rotary cutters, scissors, and snips are used for trimming and finishing.
Laying Fabric for Proper Cutting:
Properly laying out fabric is essential to ensure accurate cutting and minimize wastage. Here's how fabric is typically laid out:
Fabric Inspection: Before cutting, fabric is inspected for defects, such as stains or flaws, to avoid cutting these into the garment.
Spreading: The fabric is spread out smoothly on the cutting table, aligning the selvedges and ensuring it lies flat without wrinkles or folds.
Marker Placement: The printed marker, which serves as a guide for cutting, is placed on top of the fabric. It is carefully aligned to ensure pattern pieces are placed according to the marker's instructions.
Pattern Weights: Pattern weights or pins are used to secure the marker and fabric in place, preventing shifting during cutting.
Cutting Direction: The direction in which the fabric is laid can affect the garment's appearance and stretch properties. Grains and patterns must be considered when positioning the fabric.
Bundling Fabric for the Next Steps:
After the fabric is cut into pattern pieces, it needs to be organized and prepared for the subsequent stages of the production process. This is typically done by bundling the cut pieces:
Piece Marking: Each cut piece is often marked with identification labels or tags to indicate size, style, and any other relevant information.
Bundle Creation: Pieces for each garment or size are grouped together into bundles. These bundles are organized and labeled for easy tracking during sewing and assembly.
Quality Control: Before bundling, quality control checks are performed to identify any defects or issues in the cut pieces. This ensures that only quality components are passed to the sewing stage.
Storage: Bundles may be stored in designated racks or shelves, ready for the sewing department to pick up and start the assembly process.
The fabric cutting process in apparel manufacturing involves the use of specialized machinery and equipment, careful fabric spreading and marker placement, and the bundling of cut pieces for efficient organization and preparation for the next stages of production. Precise cutting and proper organization contribute to the overall quality and efficiency of the apparel manufacturing process.
Tips on setting up an efficient cutting room for garment manufacturing. Check our apparel cutting room layouts.
If you are planning on cutting small amounts of fabric, you can also cut fabric with pinking shears.
If you are planning on setting up a clothing industry cutting room, you may want to consult with a cutting room consultant.
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Cutting tables with smooth surfaces for spreading; straight knife cutters for layers of fabric; round knife cutters for curves and smaller runs; band knife machines for intricate patterns; die cutting machines for uniform shapes and components; and computerized CNC cutting systems that follow marker lines with digital cameras and laser sensors. Rotary cutters, scissors, snips and pattern weights support the work.
The fabric is inspected for stains and flaws first, then spread smoothly on the cutting table with selvedges aligned and no wrinkles or folds. The printed marker is placed on top and aligned, pattern weights or pins hold everything against shifting, and grain and pattern direction are checked because the lay direction affects appearance and stretch.
Each piece is marked with identification - size, style and other production details - and pieces for each garment or size are grouped into labeled bundles for tracking through sewing and assembly. Quality control checks the cut pieces before bundling so only sound components move forward.