Apparel Design & Development - What You'll Learn
Seattle Central College's Apparel Design & Development program is highly reputed as the most technically oriented design program in the region and is aligned to industry trends to provide the relevant knowledge and skills needed to begin a career in a competitive industry.
You will receive hands-on instruction in our 10,000 square foot studio and classroom space, which features computerized industrial sewing machines, cork top patternmaking tables and a dedicated computer lab with the latest software for digitizing and designing.
In addition, the content in our courses is intertwined to provide you with a strong foundation in general college requirements with an apparel industry focus.
Students who successfully complete the Apparel Design & Development program will be develop competitive skills in:
- Design: Understand the principles of design, proportion and color as they apply to garments, presentation materials and textiles.
- Communication: Communicate and present verbal, visual and written ideas and information clearly and accurately. Work effectively individually, and collaborate with colleagues and as a member of a team. Be able to think critically and problem solve.
- Computer Literacy: Understand various computer applications as they apply to the apparel business including graphics for technical drawings, specification packages, story boards and presentation materials and in patternmaking and pattern grading.
- Construction: Understand and execute the construction of a variety of garments and apply different techniques and methods using industrial equipment.
- Pattern Development: Be able to develop patterns to industry standards for a variety of garments and accessories. Understand the principles of various pattern approaches including drafting, flat pattern, draping and pattern grading.
- Development of Garment Specifications: Create accurate specification packages and show clear understanding of specification sheets, markers, sequences of construction and technical drawings.
- Textile Development and Design: Understand and identify fabric types and weave structures. Have practical knowledge of how textiles are designed and developed for apparel manufacturing.
- Line Development: Design and produce a collection of clothing for presentation at a portfolio show for industry and the general public.
- Portfolio/Resume/Presentation: Develop a portfolio, resume and story boards to professional standards.
- Business Practices: Know common practices in the apparel industry including business structures and cycles, job classifications, product development workflow, business trends and professional communications.
- Human Relations: Demonstrate an awareness of the historical, social, psychological and cultural ideas that inform and shape our work in apparel design. Understand concepts integral to social interaction and responsibility.
Learn more about course planning for the Apparel Design and Development program.