3D Apparel Design

The benefits of working with 3D design in knitwear development by Cecily – DirecTEX Designer

As knitwear design consultants, we know well that the apparel industry is ever-changing; moving at fast speeds with constant innovation. The explosion of digital tools over the past few years have had a profound impact on the knitwear design process. We are always looking for valuable tools to improve our knitwear development experience.

One innovation that is being utilized by DirecTEX right now is 3D Apparel Design. 3D Apparel Design software allow the designer to virtually pattern, stylize, and drape a garment to visualize the final product. On the left, you can see the difference between a traditional flat CAD and the new 3D design.

BENEFITS OF 3D DESIGN:

· Visual representation of designs

· Real time changes

· Virtual fittings

· Reduced need for physical samples

· Quicker production times

· Less material waste

“What excites me about 3D Apparel Design is the potential for this design process to make the Apparel Industry more sustainable.

3D design allows for garment styles and fit to be adjusted quickly and efficiently. Tools within the software allow the designer to see how garments fit on an avatar so adjustments can be made without the need for a new sample or fit session. If 3D is utilized to its fullest capabilities, I believe that there would no longer be need for production samples, which could greatly reduce textile waste.”

-Cecily

DirecTEX Designer