What is cutting?

Cutting in the garments industry refers to the process of cutting fabric into specific
shapes and sizes according to the pattern pieces of a garment.
cutting refers to the process of separating fabric pieces from a larger roll or sheet of
fabric according to specific patterns and designs. It involves using sharp tools or
machines to carefully cut along the outlines of the pattern pieces.
 The spread of plaid fabric in a persectioned manner is done to achieve
accurate pattern matching, optimize fabric utilization, simplify the cutting
process, ensure consistency and quality control, and prevent distortion or
misalignment of the plaid pattern during garment production

 A seam is the line where fabrics are joined together by sewing.

 A stitch is a single loop or interlocking connection made with a needle and
thread.
 Stitches are used to create seam

Cutting Quality?
Cutting quality refers to how well the fabric is cut during the garment
production process. It includes factors like accuracy, clean edges, consistent
sizing, proper pattern alignment, and minimizing fabric waste. Good cutting
quality ensures that the fabric pieces are cut correctly, resulting in wellfitting,
aesthetically pleasing garments.
1. Accuracy
2. Condition of cutting edjes
3. Precision of cut garments parts

Cutting quality accuracy refers to how well the fabric is cut during the garment
production process. It involves achieving precise and accurate cuts according to the
pattern dimensions and design specifications.

The condition of cutting edges refers to the sharpness, cleanliness, and uniformity of
the edges produced during cutting. Sharp and clean cutting edges are important for
achieving precise cuts and preventing fabric damage.
If material is sytnthetic then plies are fused.

Precision of cut garment parts refers to the accuracy and consistency in

cutting fabric pieces. It ensures that the pattern pieces are cut with precision,
maintaining the intended shape, size, and alignment for proper assembly

Cutting Requirement:
 Precision (Exactness) of cut.
 Clean edges.
 Un fused edges.
 Support of the lay.
Consistent cutting

In simpler terms:
1. Mistakes by the person cutting the fabric.
2. Problems with the cutting tools or equipment.
3. Fabrics that move or change shape during cutting.
4. Issues with preparing the fabric before cutting.
5. Variations in the fabric itself that make it difficult to cut accurately

Notches are tiny cuts in fabric edges that help line up and match pattern pieces
while sewing, ensuring the pieces fit together correctly and the garment takes shape
properly. They act as markers for alignment, making the sewing process more precise
and accurate

 Cutting Pitch: Cutting pitch refers to the distance between consecutive cuts
made during the fabric cutting process. It determines the spacing between the
pattern pieces on the fabric. A proper cutting pitch ensures efficient fabric
utilization and minimizes wastage.

Two types of cutting

1. Operator Control Method: In this cutting method, a human operator is in
direct control of the cutting process. They use manual tools such as scissors,
knives, or fabric cutting machines to cut the fabric according to
 2. the pattern. The operator relies on their skill, experience, and judgement to
ensure accurate cutting. This method is commonly used in smallscale or manual
production settings.
It can be also be in 2 types portable or stationary equipment

Portable equipment

The main difference between vertical straight knives and round straight knives lies in
their blade shapes and cutting mechanisms:

1. Vertical Straight Knives: These knives have a blade that moves in a vertical
direction, meaning it moves up and down to cut the material. They are commonly
used for cutting fabric in garment manufacturing. The vertical motion allows for
precise and clean cuts, especially on layered fabric.

Blade vary in length In 614 inches

2. Round Straight Knives: These knives have a circular blade that rotates to cut the
material. They are often used for cutting curves and intricate shapes in various
materials, including fabric, leather, and paper. The circular motion of the blade
enables smoother cuts around curves compared to a straight blade.

Basic components of portable machines

1. Knife Blade: The cutting tool used for the machine's operation.

2. Base Plate: The flat surface on which the material to be cut is placed.

3. Power System: The mechanism that provides the machine with the energy needed
to operate, such as batteries or an electric cord.
4. Sharpening Device: A component used to maintain the sharpness of the blade for
efficient cutting.

Staionary Equipment:

Band knife cutting is a method used to cut soft materials, like fabric or foam, using a long,
narrow blade that moves in a continuous loop
3. Automated Numerically Controlled Method: In this cutting method, cutting
is performed using automated machinery controlled by computer programs.
The cutting machine, often called a CNC (Computer Numerical Control)
machine, follows preprogrammed instructions to cut the fabric. The operator
sets up the machine, inputs the cutting parameters, and the machine executes
the cutting process precisely and consistently. This method is used in
largerscale production to achieve high accuracy and efficiency
The machine uses various cutting tools, such as rotary blades or laser cutters,
guided by computercontrolled movements. This method offers high precision,
speed, and consistency.
Here are the parts commonly found in each type of cutting
machine used in garment manufacturing:
1. Straight Knife Cutting Machine:

Blade: Straight cutting blade for cutting fabric.

Base Plate: Flat surface where the fabric is placed for cutting.

Motor: Powers the machine and drives the blade.

Handle or Control Panel: Used to operate the machine.

Fabric Clamp: Holds the fabric in place during cutting.

Guide Rail: Helps to guide the fabric for straight cuts.

Height Adjustment: Allows for adjusting the height of the blade.

Waste Bin: Collects fabric scraps.

Lubrication Points: Where lubricant is applied to keep the machine running

smoothly.

2. Round Knife Cutting Machine:

Blade: Circular cutting blade for cutting fabric.

Base Plate: Flat surface where the fabric is placed for cutting.

Motor: Powers the machine and drives the blade.

Handle or Control Panel: Used to operate the machine.

Fabric Clamp: Holds the fabric in place during cutting.

Guide Rail: Helps to guide the fabric for straight or curved cuts.

Height Adjustment: Allows for adjusting the height of the blade.

Waste Bin: Collects fabric scraps.

 Lubrication Points: Where lubricant is applied.

3. Band Knife Cutting Machine:

Blade: Long, narrow blade for cutting fabric.

Base Plate: Flat surface where the fabric is placed for cutting.

Motor: Powers the machine and drives the blade.

Handle or Control Panel: Used to operate the machine.

Fabric Clamp: Holds the fabric in place during cutting.

Guide Rail: Helps to guide the fabric for straight or curved cuts.

Height Adjustment: Allows for adjusting the height of the blade.

Waste Bin: Collects fabric scraps.

Lubrication Points: Where lubricant is applied.

4. Die Cutting Machine:

Die: Customshaped cutting tool used to cut fabric.

Base Plate: Flat surface where the fabric and die are placed for cutting.

Motor: Powers the machine and drives the die.

Handle or Control Panel: Used to operate the machine.

Fabric Clamp: Holds the fabric and die in place during cutting.

Waste Bin: Collects fabric scraps.

5. Laser Cutting Machine:

Laser Source: Emits a highpowered laser beam for cutting fabric.

Cutting Head: Focuses and directs the laser beam.

 CNC Controller: Controls the movement of the cutting head.

Exhaust System: Removes smoke and fumes produced during cutting.

Base Plate: Flat surface where the fabric is placed for cutting.

Motor: Powers the machine and moves the base plate.

Safety Features: Including safety glasses and interlocks to protect operators.

6. Water Jet Cutting Machine:

HighPressure Water Pump: Generates a highpressure jet of water for cutting

fabric.

Mixing Chamber: Where abrasive material is added to the water jet for
cutting tougher fabrics.

Cutting Head: Focuses and directs the water jet.

CNC Controller: Controls the movement of the cutting head.

Base Plate: Flat surface where the fabric is placed for cutting.

Motor: Powers the machine and moves the base plate.

Waste Water Collection System: Collects and disposes of the water used in
cutting.

7. Plasma Cutting Machine:

Plasma Torch: Creates a hightemperature plasma arc for cutting fabric.

CNC Controller: Controls the movement of the plasma torch.

Base Plate: Flat surface where the fabric is placed for cutting.

Motor: Powers the machine and moves the base plate.

Exhaust System: Removes smoke and fumes produced during cutting.

Safety Features: Including safety glasses and interlocks to protect operators.

These are general parts and may vary based on the specific design and
functionality of each machine.
Material Handling: This refers to the movement, protection, storage, and control of materials
and products throughout manufacturing, warehousing, distribution, consumption, and disposal.
In the context of garment production, it includes the handling of fabrics, trims, accessories, and
finished garments. Efficient material handling is crucial for maintaining workflow and reducing
production time and costs.

Apparel Production System: This encompasses the entire process and methods used to produce
garments from raw materials to finished products. It includes different types of production
systems, such as:

 Progressive Bundle System (PBS): Garments are produced in batches or bundles and
passed through various production stages.

The Progressive Bundle System (PBS) is a method of organizing garment production that involves
processing garments in batches, or bundles, where each bundle contains several garment parts. These
bundles move sequentially through a series of specialized tasks, with each worker focusing on a
specific task such as sewing a particular part of the garment. Quality control checks are conducted at
each step to ensure that the work meets the required standards. The bundles are tracked using tickets
or tags, which detail the work completed and what remains to be done. This system allows for a
steady workflow, increased efficiency, and flexibility to handle different garment styles and sizes.
Additionally, it facilitates inventory management and simplifies worker training for specific task

 Large WIP: There are many unfinished items in the production process, which can cause
delays and increase costs.

 Long Throughput Time: It takes a long time for a product to be made from start to finish,
which can slow down production and lead to delays in delivering products to customers.

 Large Inventory: There is a lot of inventory (raw materials, unfinished products, and
finished products) sitting around, which ties up money and space.

 Extra Handling: Products or materials are being moved or handled more than necessary,
which can be wasteful and increase the risk of damage.

 Difficulty in Handling Inventory: It's hard to keep track of inventory and manage it
efficiently, which can lead to mistakes and shortages

 Unit Production System (UPS): Each garment is produced individually and moved
through production stages using a conveyor system.

 Modular Production System (MPS): Teams of workers complete garments
collaboratively, improving flexibility and quality.

The Modular Production System (MPS) is a method of organizing garment production that
emphasizes teamwork and collaboration among workers. In this system, small teams of workers,
 often called modules, work together to complete garments. Each module is responsible for a specific
part of the garment, such as sewing sleeves or attaching buttons. Unlike traditional production
systems where each worker completes a garment individually, MPS encourages workers to
collaborate and help each other to improve efficiency and quality. This system offers flexibility, as
modules can be easily reorganized to accommodate different garment styles or production volumes.
Additionally, MPS promotes worker empowerment and engagement, as workers have more control
over their work and can contribute their ideas for improving the production process. Overall, MPS is
a dynamic and adaptable production system that can lead to increased productivity and improved
worker satisfaction

While material handling is a component of an apparel production system, focusing on the

movement and storage of materials, an apparel production system encompasses the broader
workflow, organization, and methods of garment production.

If you need more detailed information on either material handling or specific apparel production
systems, let me know