Unit of competency details

Unit descriptor 

This unit covers the skills and knowledge to grade flat or 2D patterns used for garment production.

Application of the Unit 

The unit applies to the grading of flat or 2D patterns used for garment production where discretion and judgement may be required, for both self and others, in planning and selecting processes, procedures or outcomes.

Work may be conducted in small to large scale enterprises and may involve individual and team-related activities.

The application of this unit is according to OHS practices of the enterprise and workplace practices, which may include:

• requirements prescribed by legislation, awards agreements and conditions of employment
• standard operating procedures
• work instructions
• oral, written and visual communication
• quality practices, including responsibility for maintenance of own work quality and contribution to quality improvement of team or section output
• housekeeping
• tasks related to environmental protection, waste disposal, pollution control, and recycling

This unit requires the application of skills associated with problem solving and planning and organising to determine grading requirements and select base pattern. Communication and numeracy skills are used to interpret and apply pattern information and complete documentation. Self management skills are used to ensure conformance of grading to quality standards.

Prerequisites 

Employability Skills 

This unit contains employability skills.

ELEMENT 

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA 

1 Analyse grading system

1.1 Workstation and/or equipment are selected and prepared according to OHS practices .

1.2 Grading system  used in workplace is identified.

1.3 Measurements of base size and subsequent spread are identified.

1.4 Number of sizes in grading is calculated.

1.5 Grade increments between sizes are established.

2 Set up base pattern

2.1 Base pattern of a basic style  and pattern pieces are identified, constant or '0' position is established and grade points with corresponding values are assigned.

2.2 Base size pattern is checked for correct information, balance points and pattern fit and clarification sought, as required.

2.3 Style and fabric characteristics which influence grading are identified and any queries are clarified with patternmaker.

2.4 Appropriate grade plan is selected and grade rule table constructed.

3 Grade pattern

3.1 Stacking or outlay requirements, including direction are determined.

3.2 Pattern is graded manually using patternmaking technical skills or by computer.

3.3 If stacking, stack points or lines are identified.

3.4 Integrity of pattern attributes  is preserved during grading.

3.5 All pattern pieces are accurately labelled with pattern marking symbols .

3.6 Pattern is checked for accuracy and rectified or addressed as required.

4 Maintain records

4.1 Records are maintained and documentation completed as required.

4.2 Patterns are filed.

This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level, required for this unit.

Demonstrates knowledge of:

• Australian size standards
• workplace and customer size charts
• patternmaking and the development of a pattern
• cost efficiency in patternmaking
• an understanding of marker making
• OHS practices, including hazard identification and control measures
• quality practices
• workplace practices
• recording and reporting practices

Demonstrates skills to:

• produce precise results
• use CAD or manual grading systems
• communicate effectively with individuals, work groups and supervisors
• document and transfer information
• consistently achieve quality and production output requirements
• read, interpret and follow information on work specifications, standard operating procedures and work instructions, and other reference material
• maintain accurate records
• sequence operations
• meet specifications
• clarify and check task-related information
• carry out work according to OHS practices

The Evidence Guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the Performance Criteria, Required Skills and Knowledge, the Range Statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.

Critical aspects of evidence 

Demonstrates skills and knowledge to:

• check patterns for correct information
• grade flat, 2D patterns
• ensure graded patterns meet specifications
• communicate effectively with design team, customers, etc.
• apply OHS practices in work operations
• maintain accurate records

Consistency in performance 

Consistently applies skills and knowledge when:

• organising work
• completing tasks
• identifying improvements
• using workplace practices
• using OHS practices
• recording and reporting accidents and incidents
• assessing operational readiness of equipment used and work processes
• recognising and adapting to cultural differences in the workplace, including modes of behaviour and interactions
• completing work systematically with attention to detail without damage to goods and equipment

Resource implications 

Access is required to real or appropriately simulated situations, including work areas, materials and equipment, and to information on workplace practices and OHS practices.

Context for assessment 

Assessment may occur on the job or in an appropriately simulated environment.

Interdependent assessment 

This unit may be assessed independently or in combination with other relevant units.

RANGE STATEMENT 

The Range Statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the Performance Criteria, is detailed below. Add any essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment depending on the work situation, needs if the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts.

Legislative/regulatory requirements

All work must comply with relevant Federal and State or Territory legislative or regulatory requirements.

OHS practices

OHS practices must include hazard identification and control, risk assessment and implementation of risk reduction measures specific to the tasks described by this unit and may include:

• manual handling techniques
• standard operating procedures
• personal protective equipment
• safe materials handling
• taking of rest breaks
• ergonomic arrangement of workplaces
• following marked walkways
• safe storage of equipment
• housekeeping
• reporting accidents and incidents
• other OHS practices relevant to the job and enterprise

Grading system may include:

• flat, 2D patterns
• shaped, 3D patterns
• position of constant or stack point

Basic styles may include:

• A-line skirt
• straight skirt
• T-shirt
• shirt
• pants
• shorts (elastic waisted)
• blouses
• lingerie

Pattern attributes may include:

• darts
• notches
• shape
• design proportion

Pattern marking symbols may include:

• grain lines
• darts
• slits
• job seams
• seam allowance
• written information and instructions

Sector 

Fashion Design and Technology