Spreading, Form Layout, and Cutting

Spreading, Form Layout, and Cutting

After fabric has been relaxed, it is transferred to the spreading and cutting area of the garment manufacturing facility. The fabric is first cut into uniform plies and then spread either manually or using a computer-controlled system in preparation for the cutting process. Fabric is spread to: allow operators to identify fabric defects; control the tension and slack of the fabric during cutting; and ensure each ply is accurately aligned on top of the others. The number of plies in each spread is dependent on the fabric type, spreading method, cutting equipment, and size of the garment order. Next, garment forms—or patterns—are laid out on top of the spread, either manually or programmed into an automated cutting system. Lastly, the fabric is cut to the shape of the garment forms using either manually operated cutting equipment or a computerized cutting system.