What Is a CAD in Fashion Design? Understanding the Differences Between Flats and Technical Drawings

In fashion design, CADs (Computer Aided Designs) are two-dimensional (2D) sketches of a garment, created to communicate how it should be constructed. These drawings are an essential tool for communicating with your pattern cutter, sample machinist, or manufacturer.

However, “CAD” is a catch-all term that can refer to different types of 2D sketches—and knowing the difference between them is crucial for working efficiently and professionally in the fashion industry.

What Does CAD Actually Mean in Fashion?

CAD stands for Computer Aided Design. In fashion, it usually refers to flat sketches created using design software to illustrate garments in 2D. These are not just stylised illustrations—they serve a purpose and should be created with care and precision.

✅ Always clarify what someone means when they ask for a “CAD.” Are they asking for a technical flat, or a stylised fashion flat? The two are not the same.

Technical Drawings: For Construction and Manufacturing

Technical Drawings are used in tech packs or specification sheets and are primarily for internal use—to show how a garment should be constructed.

These drawings are functional, not decorative. They provide your pattern maker or manufacturer with the information they need to accurately cut and assemble your garment.

A good Technical Drawing should:

• Be proportionally accurate
  
• Include all stitch details
  
• Show key construction elements (e.g. seams, fastenings)
  
• Be in black and white or greyscale
  
• Avoid showing colour, print, or fabric texture
  
• Avoid any exaggeration, movement, or styling

Fashion Flats (Design Flats): For Visualising and Selling the Design

Fashion Flats, also known as Design Flats, are often used in line sheets, lookbooks, or internal range planning. These sketches are more stylised and visual, helping to communicate the design intent and overall aesthetic of a garment.

Unlike technical drawings, fashion flats may include:

• Colour
  
• Print or pattern
  
• Stylised or slightly exaggerated shapes
  
• A sense of movement or drape
  
• Removed stitch lines or simplified construction elements

These are particularly useful when presenting a design to buyers or stakeholders before technical development begins.

Summary: Technical Drawing vs Fashion Flat

Feature	Technical Drawing	Fashion Flat
Purpose	Construction/Production	Design Presentation
Includes Stitching Details?	Yes	Optional
Colour/Print	No	Yes
Stylised Elements	No	Yes
Proportionally Accurate	Must be	Should be
Software Used	Illustrator, CAD Software	Same as Technical

Recommended CAD Software for Fashion Design

Most professionals use Adobe Illustrator, which is widely regarded as the industry standard. However, there are several other tools you can explore based on your needs and setup:

• Adobe Illustrator (Recommended)
  
• CorelDRAW
  
• Digital Fashion Pro
  
• Procreate (iPad only)
  
• Sketchbook
  
• Pret-à-Template (iOS only)
  

More Learning Resources Coming Soon!

If you’re looking to improve your digital drawing or CAD skills, keep an eye out, I will be sharing new learning resources on Adobe Illustrator and other digital tools very soon.