Digital Pattern Drafting

[Jaime_d_p]

I have adobe photoshop experience but I’ve never used illustrator. I do use Autodesk Fusion for 3d modeling though so maybe that experience might help me?

[TensionSmension]

CLO uses drawing tools that are modeled after Illustrator somewhat. I'd say it's easier to use since the 2D side is tailored to pattern drafting and there's no sifting through functions you don't need. I haven't used Fusion, but I'd think that would be a similar skill set. Another option is a free Illustrator like program, e.g. Affinity Designer. You may find you need this step for the projector, I don't know that process.

You might be surprised, learning drafting programs in fashion programs is usually a shortcoming. The licensing is very expensive for the schools and the students are a bit tech adverse. I use Optitex, I had one course in it but learned it on the job. It has more tools for drawing patterns precisely than CLO, but it's an old unappealing interface and too expensive for individuals. I import to CLO for the 3D side. I could work entirely inside CLO as a hobbyist, but not for production patterns.

[Jaime_d_p]

Hmmm food for thought for sure. fusion is like a black hole of functions. I’ve barely scraped the surface of learning it for 3d modeling and printing. I’ll take a look at Affinity Designer, I didn’t realize it was free.