Do traditional fabric cutting tools have a place in the age of smart garment cutting tech?

With new, high tech cutting tools like computer-powered automatic cutting machines becoming more and more popular in the garment industry, garment manufacturers wonder where traditional cutting tools like hand-held rotary cutters or even scissors fit in the garment making process. But, even with these technological improvements, older methods have a long history of evolving to meet garment industry needs, and they are still very useful.

Why Precise Cutting is Important?

Fabric cutting, a foundational step in garment creation, involves measuring and tailoring fabric based on specific patterns. Its precision directly impacts the garment's quality and the overall efficiency of the manufacturing process. Efficient fabric cutting not only protects profits but also promotes sustainability by minimizing waste. But what tools bring about this precision?

Why Scissors Still Matter?

Even with new technology, many still use traditional tools like scissors. While these tools may operate at a slower speed, they come with the irreplaceable advantage of human precision, touch, and finesse. Often, there are intricate adjustments and custom tailoring requirements that demand the hand's delicacy, something automated machines might not always capture perfectly. Tailoring houses, renowned for their craftsmanship, still rely on these conventional tools for these very reasons, emphasizing their invaluable role even on advanced manufacturing floors.

Benefits of Modern Cutting Machines

Transitioning from the personalized touch of traditional tools, the garment industry is now heavily leaning into the domain of electric cutting machines. Straight knives, known for their versatility, have become commonplace, adept at slicing through fabrics of varying thicknesses. Meanwhile, round knives, prized for their portability, offer rapid straight cuts, and some even boast self-sharpening mechanisms.

Yet, as we move into an era of heightened precision and speed, band knives are not to be overlooked. Although they may operate at a more deliberate pace, their accuracy is unmatched, making them the go-to for intricate and detailed cuts, thanks to their unique design and functionalities.

This shift towards modern machinery isn't just about speed and efficiency; it's a testament to how technological advancements are reshaping the garment industry. Companies like Powertherm Contract Services Ltd show how things have changed. By harnessing the capabilities of automatic cutting machines, they've dramatically reduced fabric waste and slashed production time by a staggering 83% for certain designs. It's a clear indicator that the future promises increased profits, primarily by curbing labor, time, and resource expenses, all while maintaining, if not enhancing, the quality of the final product.

Combining Old & New Tools for Best Results

In the age of smart garment-cutting technology, it may seem that traditional fabric cutting tools are becoming obsolete. However, the continuous use and evolution of these traditional tools in today's garment industry affirm their enduring relevance. While automated machinery offers rapid production and precise cuts, traditional tools provide invaluable flexibility, especially for quick adjustments and specialized tasks. The fusion of traditional and modern methods combines the strengths of both, rather than replacing one with the other. In the evolving landscape of garment production, both traditional fabric cutting tools and innovative technologies have distinct roles to play, ensuring that garment manufacturing is both efficient and of high quality.

As industries evolve, so do the tools we use. But remember, it's the balance between tradition and innovation that often reaps the greatest rewards. Oshima stands at the crossroads of this evolution, offering a comprehensive range of cutting tools. Let us be your guide to the future of garment production. Contact us today.

References
http://texmin.nic.in/sites/default/files/Garment%20Study%20-%20Final%20Report%20-%2026.02.2018.pdf
https://www.textiletoday.com.bd/fashion-merchandising-garment-costing/
https://www.themanufacturer.com/articles/automation-makes-the-cut-for-powertherm/