Key Takeaway
- CLO connects measurement-based grading with 2D pattern edits and 3D fit review for apparel development.
- You can review fit across sizes on screen to help identify grading issues.
- The workflow covers spec entry, linked 2D-to-3D editing, and multi-size fit review, without generating automatic patterns from fit notes.
Checking a new jacket across a full size run often stalls when 2D pattern adjustments, measurement tables, and 3D sample views live in disconnected files. For physical outerwear development, CLO brings Pattern Drafter, Auto POM & Grading, and 2D Grading Review together with pattern and measurement workflows. You can apply grading from measurements, adjust a DXF pattern in 2D with an immediate 3D view update, and inspect fit across sizes. CLO is optimized for fashion and apparel development; its sibling product Marvelous Designer is primarily used for animation and gaming. CLO-SET can complement CLO by supporting collaboration and review of digital product content.
Step-by-Step Outerwear Grading Routine
When your team needs to move an outerwear style from initial block measurements to a multi-size virtual fit check, the connected workflow inside CLO follows six steps:
- Draft the initial base pattern from avatar measurements using Pattern Drafter, incorporating detail blocks such as hoods and pockets.
- Import existing CAD files if you are starting from an external block; CLO supports DXF notch import onto the outline, the seam allowance, or both.
- Create the required points of measure, then use the calculator in the POM tab to calculate combined measurements. Save the calculations in Calculator Notepad as needed.
- For patterns created in Pattern Drafter, select Add Grading, define the sizes, enter full measurements or grading increments, and click Create. For imported patterns, use CLO’s grading tools to apply or edit grade rules.Edit the imported DXF pattern in 2D, then run simulation to assess the updated garment’s fit and drape in the linked 3D view.
- Use 2D Grading Review to compare patterns and graphic placement across sizes. For 3D fit review, pair each size with an appropriate avatar, simulate each size, and compare the saved results in Grading Review. Render selected sizes as needed.
Automating Grading from Entered Measurements
Manually typing grade rules point by point across heavy outerwear pieces leaves plenty of room for transcription mistakes. Auto POM & Grading generates points of measure and applies grading directly from measurements while keeping the results editable. Use the calculator in the POM tab to perform calculations with existing measurement values and save the results in Calculator Notepad.
Outerwear grading rarely scales evenly across every size break, especially around armholes, shoulders, and hood openings. When a size range calls for uneven jumps, CLO supports simultaneous multi-field grading edits alongside formula-based irregular deviations. If a specific corner or curve needs independent handling, you can also apply grading selectively at individual points.
Keep the scope of these measurement tools in mind when planning your pipeline.
Linked 2D Edits and Multi-Size 3D Fit Checks
Fixing a tight shoulder or adjusting a pocket placement on a graded jacket requires seeing both the flat piece and the draped garment. In CLO, 2D pattern edits synchronize with the 3D view. Editing stops an active simulation, so run simulation again to review the updated fit and drape. For checking flat pieces before simulation, 2D Grading Review lets you compare 2D patterns and graphic placement across all grading sizes in a single window.
Once the 2D pieces line up, you can review fit across sizes on screen to help identify grading issues and render selected grading sizes at once.
Fit Maps include a Strain Map whose Fabric Mode calculates an adjustable wearable stretch limit from each fabric’s physical properties. Treat Fit Maps, pressure views, and material controls as a design aid rather than a guarantee of physical fit or comfort; the results depend on the accuracy of your fabric inputs and your testing method.
Grading and 3D Pattern Software Matrix
Fashion designers, pattern makers, and apparel developers can compare how CLO, Optitex, and Wild Ginger Cameo support measurement-based grading, 2D-to-3D pattern editing, and multi-size fit review. CLO is focused on fashion and apparel development, while Marvelous Designer, CLO’s sibling product, is primarily used for animation and gaming.
| Software | Measurement-Based Grading & Drafting | 2D-to-3D Pattern Editing & File Formats | Multi-Size Fit & Grading Review |
|---|---|---|---|
| CLO | Auto POM & Grading generates POMs and applies grading from measurements with editable results; Pattern Drafter drafts from avatar measurements with detail blocks (pockets, hoods). | Connects 2D pattern editing with 3D simulation; supports DXF import/export, AI/PDF import, and PDF export for file exchange with other CAD workflows, including Optitex. | Supports fit review across sizes; 2D Grading Review compares 2D patterns and graphic placement across grading sizes in one window, and selected grading sizes can be rendered at once. |
| Optitex | Dynamic Measurement Chart imports Excel-based measurement data directly to automatically create pattern and PDS files. | A pattern change made in 2D is reflected immediately in the 3D visualization. | Grading tools can display a draped 3D result alongside patterns for virtual samples across sizes. |
| Wild Ginger Cameo | Includes grading and made-to-measure apparel software; Made to Fit pricing is listed by Wild Ginger. | Cameo Pattern Design is the required base module for 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 apparel software suite. |
Based on manufacturer documentation from CLO, Optitex, and Wild Ginger Software, Inc.
FAQ
How can outerwear fit review findings inform grading adjustments in CLO?
Use Grading Review and Fit Maps to identify areas that need attention, then adjust the relevant pattern measurements or grading values. Simulate the affected sizes again to assess the changes.
What features help evaluate fabric tension during a 3D fit review?
Strain Map’s Fabric Mode calculates an adjustable wearable stretch limit from each fabric’s physical properties, helping identify areas that warrant closer fit review.Fit Maps, pressure views, and material controls serve as a design aid rather than a guarantee of physical fit or comfort, and their accuracy depends on your fabric input data and testing method.
Can I exchange pattern files between CLO and other CAD systems?
Yes. CLO supports DXF import/export, AI/PDF import, and PDF export for file exchange with other CAD systems such as Optitex. You can also import DXF notches onto the pattern outline, the seam allowance, or both.
Do active university students qualify for a CLO individual subscription?
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. It provides learning resources but 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.