Fashion Techniques and Design Program (F113)
Program Description
Program Overview
This two-year diploma program prepares you for careers in garment manufacturing design rooms. This is a women's wear program that focuses on pattern drafting and sewing skills. You will use industrial machines and learn the essentials of technical illustration, pattern making, pattern grading and clothing construction. Additional core subjects include textiles, technical specifications and history of costume.
Full Description
The Fashion Techniques and Design program prepares you for careers in garment manufacturing design rooms. This is a women's wear program that simulates, as closely as possible, the industry's standards, practices and facilities. You will use industrial machines and learn the essentials of technical illustration, pattern making, pattern grading and clothing construction. Additional core subjects include textiles, technical specifications and the history of costume. Program electives allow you to select specific related subject areas, such as fashion show development, portfolio development, draping, lingerie, men's pattern drafting, leather apparel, knitwear, and bridal and evening wear. Computer skills in Adobe Illustrator, pattern drafting and pattern grading are included as core and elective courses and are continually upgraded to meet industry needs. This program covers introductory methods to more advanced concepts in the second year.
An annual fashion show and portfolio event highlight successful student projects. You have the opportunity to network with industry, participate in numerous competitions, work on applied research projects, volunteer and attend industry events.
Note: This program requires extensive sewing; manual dexterity and good vision are assets. Both sewing experience and access to a sewing machine outside of the campus facilities are expected.
At the School of Fashion and Jewellery, the learning environment is as diverse as our students and there are many extracurricular activities to take advantage of.
Program Requirements
The Fashion Techniques and Design program requires students to have access to a personal laptop or desktop computer, and reliable Internet access for synchronous classes.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Educational Pathways
Graduates of this program with a minimum program GPA of 2.7 are eligible for admission to George Brown postgraduate programs.
Students who successfully complete this program with a grade point average of 3.5 or higher may be eligible for admission into fashion programs at other post-secondary institutions.
For further information, see Transfer Guide.
Courses
Required Courses
SEMESTER 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| FASH 1033 | Technical Illustration |
| FASH 1082 | World of Fashion |
| FASH 1107 | Fabric Science: Textiles |
| FASH 1115 | Fundamental Pattern Drafting |
| FASH 1117 | Construction I – Theory and Practice |
| COMM 1007 | College English** |
SEMESTER 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| FASH 1061 | Torso Drafting |
| FASH 1031 | Fabric Analysis |
| FASH 1122 | Construction II: Theory and Practice |
| FASH 1153 | Technical Specifications and Development |
| FASH 1159 | Design and Colour for Fashion |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
SEMESTER 3
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| FASH 2038 | Advanced Torso Drafting |
| FASH 2056 | Construction III – Theory and Practice |
| FASH 2064 | Pattern Grading and Marker Making |
| COMP 1174 | Adobe Illustrator |
| FASH | Program Elective (choose one)* |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
SEMESTER 4
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| FASH 1091 | History of Costume |
| FASH 2046 | Construction IV – Theory and Practice |
| FASH 2051 | Advanced Drafting |
| FASH | Program Elective (choose one)* |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
**Based on the results of your placement test, you may be required to take COMM 1000 Introduction to College Communication before progressing to COMM 1007. COMM 1000 does not count as a course required for graduation, and you will be charged for this extra course. Please visit Assessment Centre for more information.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College courses and the requirements.
Electives
*Program elective choices vary from semester to semester. These are examples of some of the program elective courses that may be offered:
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| FASH 2082 | Fashion Journalism – An Introduction |
| FASH 1252 | Fashion Business Communication |
| FASH 1002 | P.D.S. (Pattern Drafting System) |
| FASH 1008 | Visual Merchandising |
| FASH 1084 | Fashion Promotion and Advertising |
| FASH 1125 | Lingerie |
| FASH 1132 | Block Making |
| FASH 1134 | Collection Development |
| FASH 1135 | Independent Study |
| FASH 2050 | Draping |
| FASH 2053 | Men's Pattern Drafting |
| FASH 2054 | Portfolio Development |
| FASH 2065 | Bridal and Evening Wear |
| FASH 2076 | Fashion Project and Event Planning |
| FASH 2078 | Knitwear Product Development |
| FASH 2077 | Surface Textile Design |
| FASH 2081 | Introduction to Apparel Fit |
| FASH 1090 | Independent Study – Field Education |
| FASH 1229 | Costume Production for Film and Theatre |
Articulation Agreement
Graduates may also be eligible for further study in other academic institutions.
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Draft and grade flat patterns for mass garment production.
- Select and use production methods and techniques that best suit the fabric, pattern and design of the garments.
- Select garment materials that are compatible with the overall apparel design and meet the user's needs.
- Operate industrial sewing, pressing, grading and other technical equipment safely to professional standards.
- Apply technical and computing skills to fashion design and production.
- Research and analyze factors, trends, stylistic features and art principles that influence current fashions.
- Prepare visual and portfolio materials, product specifications and cost analysis for a product, project and/or market.
- Design, prototype and produce original patterns and garments using mass production industrial methods and equipment.
Fashion Techniques & Design Information Session
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
International Tuition
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2021. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2022 and at later dates.
** Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2022. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2023 and at later dates.
+ Books and additional supplies are not included in tuition fees and must be purchased by the student separately.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- grade 12 English (C or U)
- grade 11 math (M or U) or grade 12 (C or U)
This program requires extensive sewing and drafting. It is strongly recommended that applicants have sewing experience. Students who enter the program with intermediate experience in working with commercial patterns and construction of garments have a better chance to succeed in program demands. Both sewing ability and access to a sewing machine outside of the campus facilities are expected.
Basic computer literacy and skill level in Word and Excel are recommended.
** Mature Student Status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature students may take the Admissions Assessment for English and math, OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English and math.
Please note: Students who start the program in January (Winter term) will be required to attend classes during the summer months (May to August)
George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit the Transfer Guide for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.
Contact Us
School of Fashion and Jewellery
Phone: 416-415-5000, ext. 4840
Email: fashionandjewellery@georgebrown.ca
For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 (TTY 1-877-515-5559) or long distance 1-800-265-2002.
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
This program is offered out of our School of Fashion and Jewellery and classes take place at our Casa Loma Campus, located at 160 Kendal Ave., Toronto, ON, Canada.
On-campus information sessions are held on a regular basis. Come and have your questions answered. Learn about the program content and career options, meet your friendly professors and staff and experience what it is like to be in a George Brown College classroom. Sign up for an Info Session.
Campus tours are offered on a regular basis. Sign up for a campus tour today! You can also check out our virtual tour.
Fashion Techniques and Design Program (F113)
Apply Now:
Domestic StudentsProgram Description
Program Overview
The Fashion Techniques and Design program prepares graduates for careers in garment manufacturing design rooms. This is a women's wear program that simulates, as closely as possible, the industry's standards, practices and facilities. You will use industrial machines and learn the essentials of technical illustration, pattern making, pattern grading and clothing construction. Additional core subjects include textiles, technical specifications and history of costume. Program electives allow you to select specific related subject areas, such as fashion show production, portfolio development, draping, lingerie, men's wear and bridal and evening wear. Computer skills in Adobe Illustrator, pattern drafting and pattern grading are included as core and elective courses and are continually upgraded to meet industry needs.
Full Description
The Fashion Techniques and Design program prepares graduates for careers in garment manufacturing design rooms. This is a women's wear program that simulates, as closely as possible, the industry's standards, practices and facilities. You will use industrial machines and learn the essentials of technical illustration, pattern making, pattern grading, and clothing construction. Additional core subjects include textiles, technical specifications and history of costume. Program electives allow you to select specific related subject areas, such as fashion show development, portfolio development, draping, lingerie, men's pattern drafting, leather apparel, knitwear and bridal and evening wear. Computer skills in Adobe Illustrator, pattern drafting and pattern grading are included as core and elective courses and are continually upgraded to meet industry needs. This program covers introductory methods to more advanced concepts in the second year.
An annual fashion show and portfolio event highlight successful student projects. Students have the opportunity to network with industry, participate in numerous competitions, work on applied research projects, volunteer and attend industry events.
Note: This program requires extensive sewing; manual dexterity and good vision are assets. Both sewing experience and access to a sewing machine outside of the campus facilities are expected.
At the School of Fashion and Jewellery, the learning environment is as diverse as our students and there are many extracurricular activities to take advantage of.
Program Requirements
This program requires students to have access to a personal laptop or desktop computer, and reliable internet access for synchronous classes.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Your Career
This program is ideal for individuals with a love of fashion and a desire to be involved in the industry at various stages of creating a fashion line, from initial design concept to final product.
Graduates typically become members of a team in roles that might include:
- Pattern drafting or construction
- Drafting and construction specifications
- Product development
Graduates have had successful careers as:
- Assistant Designers
- Technical Designers
- Patternmakers
- Samplemakers
- Assistant Apparel Technicians
- Graders
- Marker Makers
- Technical Illustrators
- Product Developers
- Stylists
- Design, Trend and Style consultants
- Bloggers
Workplaces range from small design studios to large manufacturing companies. In the last 40 years, graduates have also developed into entrepreneurs in design, sewing and fashion service bureaus.
Courses
Required Courses
SEMESTER 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| FASH1033 | Technical Illustration |
| FASH1082 | World of Fashion |
| FASH1107 | Fabric Science: Textiles |
| FASH1115 | Fundamental Pattern Drafting |
| FASH1117 | Construction I – Theory and Practice |
| COMM1007 | College English** |
SEMESTER 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| FASH1031 | Fabric Analysis |
| FASH1061 | Torso Drafting |
| FASH1122 | Construction II – Theory and Practice |
| FASH1153 | Technical Specifications and Development |
| FASH1159 | Design and Colour |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
SEMESTER 3
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| FASH2038 | Advanced Torso Drafting |
| FASH2056 | Construction III – Theory and Practice |
| FASH2064 | Pattern Grading and Marker Making |
| COMP1174 | Adobe Illustrator |
| FASH | Program Elective (choose one)* |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
SEMESTER 4
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| FASH2046 | Construction IV – Theory and Practice |
| FASH2051 | Advanced Drafting |
| FASH1091 | History of Costume |
| FASH | Program Elective (choose one)* |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
**Based on the results of your placement test, you may be required to take COMM1003 (English Skills)*** or CESL1003 (English Skills – ESL)*** before progressing to COMM1007. COMM1003/CESL1003*** does not count as a course required for graduation, and you will be charged for this extra course. Please visit Assessment Centre for more information.
***COMM1003/CESL1003 courses will be replaced by COMM1000 Introduction to College Communication starting with Winter 2022 intake.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College courses and the requirements.
Electives
*Program elective choices vary from semester to semester. These are examples of some of the program elective courses that may be offered:
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| FASH2082 | Fashion Journalism – An Introduction |
| FASH1252 | Fashion Business Communication |
| FASH1002 | P.D.S. (Pattern Drafting System) |
| FASH1008 | Visual Merchandising |
| FASH1084 | Fashion Promotion and Advertising |
| FASH1089 | Social Media for Fashion Marketing |
| FASH1125 | Lingerie |
| FASH1132 | Block Making |
| FASH1134 | Collection Development |
| FASH1135 | Independent Study |
| FASH2050 | Draping |
| FASH2053 | Men's Pattern Drafting |
| FASH2054 | Portfolio Development |
| FASH2065 | Bridal and Evening Wear |
| FASH2076 | Fashion Project and Event Planning |
| FASH2078 | Knitwear Product Development |
| FASH2077 | Surface Textile Design |
| FASH2081 | Introduction to Apparel Fit |
| FASH1090 | Independent Study – Field Education |
| FASH1229 | Costume Production for Film and Theatre |
Articulation Agreement
Graduates may also be eligible for further study in other academic institutions.
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Draft and grade flat patterns for mass garment production.
- Select and use production methods and techniques that best suit the fabric, pattern and design of the garments.
- Select garment materials that are compatible with the overall apparel design and meet the user's needs.
- Operate industrial sewing, pressing, grading and other technical equipment safely to professional standards.
- Apply technical and computing skills to fashion design and production.
- Research and analyze factors, trends, stylistic features and art principles that influence current fashions.
- Prepare visual and portfolio materials, product specifications, and cost analysis for a product, project and/or market.
- Design, prototype and produce original patterns and garments using mass production industrial methods and equipment.
Fashion Techniques & Design Information Session
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2020. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2021 and at later dates.
+ Books and additional supplies are not included in tuition fees and must be purchased by the student separately.
International students: Visit the International Fees and related Costs page for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- Grade 12 English (C or U)
- Grade 11 Math (M or U) or Grade 12 (C or U)
This program requires extensive sewing and drafting. It is strongly recommended that applicants have sewing experience. Students who enter the program with intermediate experience in working with commercial patterns and construction of garments have a better chance to succeed with program demands. Both sewing ability and access to a sewing machine outside of the campus facilities are expected.
Basic computer literacy and skill level in Word and Excel are recommended.
** Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature Students may take the Admissions Assessment for English and Math, OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English and Math.
Please note: Students who start the program in January (Winter term) will be required to attend classes during the summer months (May to August)
George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit the Transfer Guide for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.
Contact Us
School of Fashion and Jewellery
Phone: 416-415-5000, ext. 4840
Email: fashionandjewellery@georgebrown.ca
For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 (TTY 1-877-515-5559) or long distance 1-800-265-2002.
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
This program is offered out of our School of Fashion and Jewellery and classes take place at our Casa Loma Campus, located at 160 Kendal Ave., Toronto, ON, Canada.
On-campus information sessions are held on a regular basis. Come and have your questions answered. Learn about the program content and career options, meet your friendly professors and staff, and experience what it is like to be in a George Brown College classroom. Sign up for an upcoming session.
Campus tours are offered on a regular basis. Sign up today! You can also check out our virtual tour.
