Communicating with Flat Sketches

The designers I work with think I sit at home with kids' activity books where you identify what is different about one image from the other. In my case, it is one sleeve has a cuff and the other doesn't or only one side of the collar has top stitching.

Fashion illustration is a wonderful art form and can convey the vision for a clothing line or style. However, the flat sketches used to communicate with a manufacturer need to be free of artistic embellishment. Countless times I've received sample garments from a manufacturer with an issue only to look at the sketch and find the factory followed the sketch exactly.

Some basic tips for flat sketches:

• Don't use extra artistic flourishes to show movement. 
• Do include all visible stitch details**. If you use Adobe Illustrator, create a brush library for different stitch types.

• Include a front and back sketch at minimum. Use a side view for unconventional side seams or side details.
• Include interior sketches for outerwear or blazers with detailed linings.
• Don't color flat sketches. Details are less visible. Include an additional image if the garment is color-blocked or made of multiple fabrics.

There are various opinions on whether to include the inside of the back collar / interior of the garment on a front sketch. I believe as long as the image is clear either way is acceptable. 

​**If you aren't well versed in stitch types American and Efird has a great resource on their website that shows common stitch types.

Feel free to comment with additional suggestions or resources!