A Technical Designer's job is to sit between the Fashion Designer, Merchandiser and Production Manager to make a garment fit the customer that the merchandiser is targeting, adhering to the designer's original vision, while also producing it at the right price. This is usually done remotely by sending communications overseas to agents and factories.
They have the ability to translate a fashion designer’s sketch into words and specific measurements that will be used to create a garment that doesn’t yet exist. These designers must have a keen sense of proportion as it relates to the human body in addition to a strong foundation in sewing and making patterns.
However, the most critical skill is of a tech designer is the ability to communicate clearly and effectively to someone who might not speak English as their first language. The factories who receive this information, often by email, are experts in garment construction, with pattern makers and sample makers readily available to make the first prototype sample.
Tech Packs Start the Process
The initial information created by the tech designer can be called a ‘spec’ which is short for specifications, or a ‘tech pack’ which is a multi page document of all of the information needed to create a first sample. A typical tech pack would include:
• Measurements
• Construction Details
• Fabric
• Notions / Trims
Fittings
After the factory develops the prototype garment, they will submit it for fit comments. The tech designer will put the garment on a dress form or fit model to assess the style lines and look with the designer and merchandiser present. They will make detailed notes about the fit and any construction changes. Then they will relay these comments back to the factory, usually by the end of the day.
Drawings / Photos
Oftentimes they need to communicate very dense information and will include photos or drawings to help bridge any language barriers. They may be commenting on dozens of garments at a time and will organize the information into a recap with the most urgent issue to be addressed at the top of the communication.
Cost to Produce
Once a prototype is developed, the factory will quote a price to produce that garment based on the bill of materials, quantity and the number of sewing operations. If the cost is too high, the tech designer is challenged with simplifying the construction to cut costs, while maintaining the desired look.
Travel
Some tech designers will visit overseas factories during the year to meet development deadlines. I really enjoyed this aspect of the job and I encourage you to go if the opportunity arises.
Tech Designer Strengths
• Organized / Detail Oriented
• Great Communication Skills
• Sewing / Pattern Making
• Ability to Meet Deadlines
• Problem Solving
• Willingness to Travel
We will be introducing Tech Packs to our Fashion Studies students this summer. If you want to hear more about this job in fashion, listen to my interview with Megan Boynton on my YouTube Channel and subscribe for more videos.
Until Next Time,
Jennifer
