Program Overview

The Gerber Pattern Making and Grading Certificate is a comprehensive 280-hour professional program designed for students who want to master digital pattern development using Gerber AccuMark software. This program focuses on industry-standard model creation, grading systems, technical data management, and digital production preparation used in professional apparel manufacturing.

Program Details

The Gerber Pattern Making and Grading Certificate provides in-depth training in digital pattern drafting, grading rule development, model building, and technical production preparation using Gerber AccuMark. Throughout the program, students develop confidence in navigating the AccuMark interface, understanding menu systems, managing data files, and applying grading logic.

Areas of Focus

• Gerber AccuMark sequence of operations
• Digitizing pattern shapes and data input
• Model creation to industry standards
• Grade rule table composition
• Piece identification and pattern verification
• Seam allowance and notch placement
• Digital dart manipulation and block adjustments
• Marker making and yield calculation
• Costing chart and measurement chart development
• Creation of a final digitized tailored jacket

Program Structure and Hours

• Duration: 14 weeks
• Total Program Hours: 280 hours
• Weekly Schedule: 20 hours per week
• Delivery Method: In-class and Live Online Hybrid

Program Journey

The program is divided into four modules:

Module 1 Introduction to Gerber AccuMark

Students begin by understanding the Gerber AccuMark sequence of operations and the structure of the digital pattern environment. They learn how pattern shapes are digitized and entered into the system.

Module 2 Creating, Saving, Digitizing, and Backing Up

Students create new pieces using the Create Piece Menu and organize models within the Pattern Design environment. They practice digitizing closed and mirrored pieces while verifying data accuracy.

Module 3 Manipulating Blocks and Grading

Students manipulate digital blocks through drafting, tracing, dart manipulation, and geometric editing tools. They rotate and flip pieces, assign rule tables, trace asymmetrical pieces, and create grading maps.

Module 4 Final Project and Presentation

In the final stage of the program, students create a fully digitized tailored jacket that demonstrates model building, grading logic, marker creation, and production preparation. Students present their final project to peers and instructors, reinforcing professional communication and technical explanation skills.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the program, students will be able to:

• Develop models to industry standards using Gerber AccuMark
• Create and manipulate digital pattern pieces
• Compose and apply grade rule tables
• Convert and manage digital production data
• Generate costing charts and measurement charts
• Formulate technical specification sheets
• Operate and utilize plotter systems
• Produce a fully digitized and graded garment

Career Paths

Graduates of the Gerber Pattern Making and Grading Certificate are prepared for specialized digital production roles within the apparel industry. Career opportunities may include:

• Apparel Pattern Maker
• Apparel Grader
• Marker Maker
• Technical Designer
• Junior Pattern Maker
• Gerber Technician

Tuition and Grants

• Domestic Tuition: $6,995.00
• International Tuition: $8,450.00
• Application Fee (Domestic): $250
• Application Fee (International): $500
• Books and Materials are excluded from the tuition fees.

Admission Requirements

To apply, you must meet the following criteria:

• High school graduation or mature student status (19+)
• Admissions interview in person or via Zoom or Skype
• Application Essay (minimum 250 words) outlining your passion and career goals
• English proficiency, if applicable
• CLBPT minimum 6
• Duolingo 85 to 90 accepted in certain circumstances

Meet Your Instructors

The program is taught by experienced instructors, including:

• Jessica Hsu, with almost three decades of experience in the fashion industry
• Chay Clayton, VCAD Alumni with experience in pattern making and sample sewing
• Julie Crawley, a seasoned fashion industry leader and educator with over three decades of experience in product development, design innovation, and supply chain strategy.

The Cut Design Academy

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Overview:

The Cut Design Academy is a fashion and design career school located in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. It is the only accredited fashion school in North America that offers one-on-one education in a professional workshop setting. The academy is known for its immersive learning environment and industry-expert instructors.

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Services Offered:

The Cut Design Academy offers a variety of programs and courses, including:

• Full-time Programs:

  • Certificates
  • Fashion Design & Creative Diploma
  • Global Fashion Marketing
  • Core 4 Diploma
  • Graphic Design & Dynamic Media
  • 26 Week Makeup Artistry Certificate

• Part-time Courses:

  • All Classes
  • Online Live
  • Online Recorded
  • 2 Week Intensives
  • Brow/Lash & Nails
  • Youth Camps

• Other Services:

  • Alumni Success
  • Testimonials
  • FAQs
  • Request Info
  • Virtual Campus Tour

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

The academy provides a student-centered learning environment with small class sizes. Students have access to a creative open studio and gain real-world experience through hands-on projects. The academy also offers scholarships and financial aid options.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Small classes:

Personalized attention and one-on-one instruction.

Student-Centered:

Focus on individual needs and goals.

Immersive Learning:

Hands-on experience in a professional workshop setting.

Creative Open Studio:

Space for students to develop their skills and creativity.

Real World Experience:

Practical projects and industry connections.

Industry Expert Instructors:

Learn from professionals with extensive experience.

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Academic Programs:

The Cut Design Academy offers a range of programs in fashion design, graphic design, makeup artistry, and more. The programs are designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the industry.

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Other:

The academy is committed to inspiring and educating true design and business professionals. It has a vibrant community and a strong alumni network. The academy also offers a blog with articles on fashion, design, and career advice.