
Pattern Grading & Marker Layout Assistant
Automate size grading calculations and marker layouts for manual patterns
What You Can Do
Input your base pattern measurements and desired size range, and Claude calculates precise grade increments across all dimensions—bodice, sleeves, length, and width. You receive complete grade tables with documented grade rules, plus marker layout suggestions showing optimal pattern nesting for minimal fabric waste. This eliminates manual calculation errors and cuts production timeline from hours to minutes.
Features
scales measurements proportionally or by fixed increments based on your size range
generates clear grade rules for factory communication and production consistency
suggests efficient pattern nesting arrangements for multiple sizes on standard fabric widths
produces readable grade progression tables (XS through 3XL) with all measurement increments clearly labeled
identifies potential fit issues by checking proportional relationships across size runs
supports industry-standard increments (1.5" average for dresses, 0.75" for fitted tops) or your specific requirements
estimates fabric waste percentages based on pattern arrangement and suggests layout alternatives
Example Output
Grade Table Output:
| Size | Bodice Width | Waist | Hip | Sleeve Length | Armhole Drop |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 14.5" | 24" | 32" | 29" | 8" |
| S | 15.5" | 25" | 33" | 29.25" | 8.125" |
| M | 16.5" | 26" | 34" | 29.5" | 8.25" |
Marker Layout Suggestion: For 60" fabric width: Arrange size run vertically (S, M, L, XL) with sleeves nested into bodice openings. Estimated yield: 4 complete sets per 2.75 yards. Waste: ~8%
Grade Rule Documentation: Bodice width grades 1" per size; waist grades 1" per size; hip grades 1" per size; sleeve length 0.25" per size; armhole drop 0.125" per size.
What's Included
- SKILL.md instruction file with complete skill configuration:
- Grade calculation template with formula structure for proportional and fixed-increment grading:
- Marker layout worksheet showing standard nesting patterns for common garment types:
- Grade documentation checklist for recording grade rules, grade points, and size-specific notes:
- Measurement scaling reference with industry-standard increments by garment type (dresses, tops, bottoms, outerwear):
Who It's For
- Manual pattern makers creating size runs for small production runs or custom orders
- Fashion design students building size-graded patterns for portfolio and class projects
- Independent pattern makers scaling sample patterns for freelance garment production
- Design room managers coordinating grade rules across production teams
- Pattern tech specialists documenting grade specifications for factory communication
Best For
- Converting single sample sizes into full size runs (XS-3XL, 0-20, child to adult)
- Generating grade documentation for production or vendor communication
- Optimizing marker layouts for minimal fabric waste on standard widths
- Verifying proportional relationships across a size range before pattern cutting
- Creating grade rule documentation for consistent sizing across multiple production runs







