[Case Study] San Diego Community College Boosts Fashion-Tech Training with NScan Pattern Digitizing System

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San Diego Community College Boosts Fashion-Tech Training with NScan Pattern Digitizing System

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San Diego, CA — San Diego City College’s Clothing & Textile program has taken a major step forward in fashion technology education with the acquisition of an NScan Pattern Digitizing system. The new technology will modernize pattern-making instruction, speed up sample development, and better prepare students for careers across apparel design, technical design, and production.​​

From paper to pixels: what the NScan does

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The NScan Pattern Digitizing system converts physical paper patterns and fabric shapes into precise digital files. This lets instructors and students:

• Capture accurate pattern measurements instantly.

• Edit patterns digitally (grading, marking, nesting) without re-drafting by hand.

• Export industry-standard files for CAD, marker-making, and automated cutting.

• Preserve pattern libraries for reuse in future classes and industry partnerships.

Why this matters for students and employers

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Fashion and textile businesses increasingly rely on digital workflows — from pattern digitizing to computer-aided grading and automated cutting. By training on equipment like the NScan, San Diego City College students gain hands-on experience with tools used in professional studios and manufacturing. Expected benefits:

• Faster prototyping: students can move from concept to sample in less time.

• Improved technical skills: digital pattern editing, file management, and interoperability.

• Stronger job readiness: graduates will be able to step into roles that require digital pattern knowledge (technical designer, CAD operator, marker planner).

• Expanded program offerings: the college can integrate digital patterning modules, short courses for industry upskilling, and collaborative projects with local manufacturers.

Curriculum and classroom impact

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The Clothing & Textile curriculum will use the NScan across several course levels:

• Introductory pattern-making: demonstrate digitizing fundamentals and create a digital pattern portfolio.

• Advanced pattern development: teach grading, fit adjustments, and digital alterations.

• Production workflows: integrate digitized patterns into marker-making and CAM outputs.Faculty will also be able to build a digital archive of student work and historical patterns for reference and research.

Industry and community partnerships

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The system positions San Diego City College students in a stronger postion after graduation, it also makes the school a stronger partner for local apparel businesses, costume shops, makerspaces, and community organizations. Digitized patterns can be shared easily with:

• Students Portfolios

• Local manufacturers for small-batch production.

• Theatre and costume programs for rapid replication of historic garments.

• Community workshops offering sewing and pattern skills to the public.

​Broader impact: sustainability and efficiency

Digital patterning reduces paper waste from repeated physical re-drafts, improves fabric utilization through better nesting, and shortens development cycles — all contributing to more sustainable and efficient apparel production practices.

About San Diego City College ​— Clothing & Textile Program

San Diego City College’s Clothing & Textile program equips students with design, construction, and technical skills for careers in apparel, textile arts, and costume production. The program blends hands-on sewing and construction with emerging digital techniques to reflect current industry needs.