
Pattern Grading Assistant
Generate precise size gradation specs and grade rules for apparel patterns
What You Can Do
This skill generates comprehensive size gradation specifications and grade rule documentation for apparel patterns. You input your master pattern measurements and size range, and receive validated grade rules, measurement progressions, and compliance-checked scaling matrices. It ensures proportional relationships are maintained across sizes, translates measurement specifications into precise pattern increments, and documents grade rules compatible with professional pattern cutting systems (Gerber, Lectra, Optitex).
Features
Calculates incremental values between consecutive sizes based on master pattern dimensions
Checks proportional scaling across width, length, and circumference measurements
Develops complete size matrices for standard and extended ranges (junior, missy, plus, petite, tall)
Validates grade rules against ASTM D6240, ISO 13402, and brand-specific sizing standards
Handles complex grading for fitted, semi-fitted, and oversized silhouettes
Formats grade rules for import into Gerber, Lectra, and OptitexPDS pattern systems
Ensures design integrity by validating arm hole depth, neckline positioning, and dart placements across sizes
Generates detailed documentation showing measurement deltas and compliance checkpoints
Example Output
Example 1: Women's Missy Dress Grade Rules
Master Size: 8 (Bust: 35", Waist: 27", Length: 40")
| Size | Bust | Waist | Length | Grade (Previous) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 33.5" | 25.5" | 39" | — |
| 8 | 35" | 27" | 40" | Base |
| 10 | 37" | 29" | 40.5" | +2" bust, +2" waist, +0.5" length |
| 12 | 39" | 31" | 41" | +2" bust, +2" waist, +0.5" length |
✓ Proportional scaling verified ✓ ASTM D6240 compliant
Example 2: Grade Rule Summary for CAD Import
Grade Rule: WD-DRESS-001
- Bust dart increment: +0.75" per size
- Waist seam allowance: consistent across range
- Armhole depth: +0.125" per size (tapered progression)
- Neck circumference: +0.25" per size
✓ Compatible with Gerber AccuMark ✓ Design integrity maintained across sizes 4-16
What's Included
- SKILL.md instruction file with pattern grading methodology and compliance frameworks:
- Grade Rule Template: Pre-formatted spreadsheet for inputting master measurements and calculating increments
- Size Matrix Checklist: Validation framework for proportional relationships and industry standard compliance
- CAD Export Workflow: Formatting guide for converting grade rules into Gerber/Lectra/Optitex-compatible specifications
- Compliance Reference: Quick-guide to ASTM D6240, ISO 13402, and common brand sizing standards
Who It's For
- Pattern makers and graders developing new styles across multiple sizes
- Technical designers validating measurement specifications and size matrices
- Fashion brands creating proprietary sizing standards and grade rule documentation
- Pattern engineers working with CAD systems (Gerber, Lectra, Optitex)
- Product developers scaling designs for extended sizes (petite, tall, plus, maternity)
Best For
- Generating grade rules for fitted, semi-fitted, and oversized apparel silhouettes
- Translating measurement specifications into precise pattern increments
- Validating size progression logic against body measurement standards and compliance requirements
- Creating CAD-compatible grade rule documentation for production systems
- Cross-checking proportional relationships in multi-directional grading across size ranges







