Key Takeaway
- When repetitive measurement entry is a bottleneck, CLO can generate points of measure and apply editable grading from entered specifications.
- For pattern revisions, editing a DXF pattern in 2D updates its linked 3D garment view immediately.
- During size-run checks and fabric approval, you can review fit across sizes on screen and use fit maps to check fabric-specific strain limits before cutting physical samples.
Adjusting a jacket pattern across a full size run often means moving between spec sheets, 2D drafting tables, and separate 3D sample views. When a fit comment comes back on an outerwear shell or you need to check how a stiffer fabric behaves across graded sizes, repeating measurement edits point by point can slow development. CLO’s Auto POM & Grading can generate points of measure and apply editable grading from measurements, while 2D DXF pattern edits update the linked 3D view immediately for multi-size review. Pattern Drafter, Auto POM & Grading, and 2D Grading Review connect measurement-led pattern work with fit review across grading sizes.
CLO is optimized for fashion design and garment development. Marvelous Designer is its sibling product, designed for animation and gaming workflows. CLO-SET complements CLO with a collaborative workspace for managing, reviewing, and sharing 3D assets; teams can comment and annotate designs, track versions, and work with web tech packs that sync data from CLO files. Learn more about CLO-SET.
Reducing Repetitive Measurement Edits and Drafting Blocks
Entering grade rules point by point across a multi-piece jacket pattern can create room for spec drift. CLO supports fashion designers, pattern makers, apparel developers, and apparel organizations working on physical garments, with patternmaking tools connected to production data.
When starting a block from body dimensions, CLO’s Pattern Drafter drafts patterns from avatar measurements and includes detail blocks such as pockets and hoods.
Once the base pattern is in place, the software supports measurement-led grading through calculation and editing tools:
- The calculator in the POM tab performs calculations using existing measurement values, while Calculator Notepad lets you save and organize the results.
- Auto POM & Grading generates points of measure and applies grading from measurements, leaving the results editable so you can refine the output.
- When you need to adjust several size fields at once or apply non-uniform jumps between sizes, CLO lets you edit multiple grading fields together and use formulas for uneven size increments.
- When a specific corner or seam junction needs an isolated tweak, grading can be applied selectively at individual points.
Updating 2D Patterns and Checking 3D Fit Across Sizes
In CLO, edits to imported DXF patterns synchronize with the linked 3D view. Editing stops an active simulation, so run simulation again to assess the updated fit and drape. To keep production markings intact when bringing blocks in from other systems, CLO also supports importing DXF notches onto the pattern outline, the seam allowance, or both.
When reviewing how a graded jacket fits across the size range or checking how a newly approved shell fabric affects wearable ease, on-screen diagnostic views can help identify issues before sewing a physical prototype:
- Pair each grading size with an appropriate avatar and simulate each size, then compare the saved results in Grading Review to identify potential grading issues.
- 2D Grading Review lets you compare 2D patterns and graphic placement across grading sizes inside a single window.
- You can render selected grading sizes together to review visual proportions across the size run.
- During fabric approval, Strain Map’s Fabric Mode calculates an adjustable wearable stretch limit from each fabric’s physical properties.
Fit maps, pressure views, and material controls serve as design aids rather than guarantees of physical fit or comfort, because results depend on the accuracy of your fabric inputs and the testing method used.
Outerwear Grading and Fit-Review Software Overview
CLO and Optitex combine pattern development with 3D garment review, while Wild Ginger Cameo provides patternmaking, grading, and made-to-measure tools. CLO brings measurement-led pattern work and simulated fit review together in one workspace.
| Software | Measurement-Based Pattern & Grading Tools | 2D-to-3D Editing & Production Formats | Multi-Size Fit & Grading Review |
|---|---|---|---|
| CLO | Pattern Drafter drafts from avatar measurements with pocket and hood blocks; Auto POM & Grading generates POMs and applies editable grading from measurements; multi-field grading edits and formula-based uneven size jumps; selective point grading. | Connects 2D pattern creation and editing with 3D garment simulation; supports DXF import/export, AI/PDF import, and PDF export for file exchange with other CAD workflows, including Optitex. | Generates a fit review across sizes; 2D Grading Review compares 2D patterns and graphic placement across sizes in one window; renders selected grading sizes together; Strain Map’s Fabric Mode calculates adjustable wearable stretch limits from fabric physical properties. |
| Optitex | Dynamic Measurement Chart supports direct import of Excel-based measurement data to automatically create pattern and PDS files. | A pattern change made in 2D is reflected immediately in the 3D visualization. | Grading tools can grade patterns and visualize a draped 3D result simultaneously for virtual samples in various sizes. |
| Wild Ginger Cameo v8 | Offers measurement, coordinate, and point grading tools, plus a separate Made to Fit module for custom-sized patterns. | Cameo Pattern Design is the required base module for all other modules and libraries, and includes dart transfer, slash/spread, slash/pivot, true dart, move dart point, fold out tools, automatic seam allowances, and automatic pattern symbol placement. | Includes grading capabilities within the Cameo v8 software suite. |
Source: CLO official product information (clo3d.com), Optitex official website (optitex.com), Wild Ginger Software, Inc. official website (wildginger.com).
Compare how your team exchanges pattern files and whether on-screen 3D strain checks alongside 2D grading fit your review workflow.
FAQ
Can I exchange patterns between CLO and other apparel CAD systems?
Yes. CLO supports DXF import/export, AI/PDF import, and PDF export for file exchange with other CAD systems such as Optitex.
Does CLO support both 2D pattern editing and 3D garment simulation in one workflow?
Yes. CLO supports 2D pattern creation and editing alongside 3D garment simulation, and connects those patterns to DXF, AI, and PDF production-data workflows.
How does CLO relate to Marvelous Designer?
Marvelous Designer is CLO’s sibling product for animation and gaming, while CLO is optimized for fashion design and garment development.
Can active university students subscribe to CLO?
Active students enrolled at accredited universities qualify for a CLO Individual subscription. They can receive a student discount after submitting appropriate enrollment documentation to the CLO user support team and having it verified.
What is the difference between CLO Academy and CLO Verified?
CLO Academy is 100% free for all individual subscribers, including active student subscribers, and provides learning access. It does not currently offer quizzes or certificates of completion. CLO Verified is a separate, paid certification exam. Candidates who pass receive an official CLO certificate verifying proficiency in the software version tested.