What is the difference between a standard DXF and a DXF AAMA?

Standard DXF is a general CAD format. DXF AAMA is a specific variation tailored for the apparel industry, containing metadata readable by garment-specific systems like Gerber and Lectra.

Should I export nested patterns or individual files?

This depends entirely on your specific manufacturer's software. Always communicate with your factory to ask whether their cutting software prefers a single nested DXF or individual files per size.

Can I edit the DXF after exporting from Kleiders?

Yes, if you have professional apparel CAD software like Optitex or Gerber, you can open and edit the DXF. However, we recommend making geometric adjustments within Kleiders before export.

How to Export DXF AAMA Patterns for Professional Apparel Manufacturing

You've successfully utilized the Kleiders AI to generate a stunning design and refined it perfectly in the Pattern Studio. The final, critical step in bringing your vision to life is bridging the digital-to-physical divide. To get your garment manufactured at scale, you need to provide your factory with a specialized file format: the DXF AAMA.

Understanding the DXF AAMA Standard

What is a DXF AAMA File? DXF (Drawing Exchange Format) AAMA (American Apparel Manufacturers Association) is not a standard image file. It is a specialized, mathematically precise vector format universally recognized across the apparel manufacturing industry.

Why does your factory demand it? Unlike standard PDFs or SVGs, DXF AAMA files are engineered to communicate directly with highly advanced CAD (Computer-Aided Design) systems used by major factories, such as Gerber AccuMark, Optitex, and Lectra. A standard DXF file preserves:

Absolute Scale and Geometry: Ensuring a 10cm seam is exactly 10cm.
Layering Metadata: Separating the cutting line, sewing line, and internal annotations.
Machine Readability: Allowing direct injection into automated laser or blade fabric cutters.

Step-by-Step DXF Export Workflow

Transitioning your Kleiders design to a factory-ready DXF involves a meticulous process to ensure perfection.

Step 1: Finalize Your Base Pattern

Before exporting, your base pattern (typically a Size Medium or your specific fit model size) must be flawless. Within the Pattern Studio:

Verify all seam allowances are set to your factory's specifications.
Check that all alignment notches are present.
Ensure grainlines are correctly oriented for the specific drape of your fabric.

Step 2: Apply Automated Pattern Grading

Factories rarely produce a single size. You need a nested "size run." Select your desired size range (e.g., XS, S, M, L, XL) within the Kleiders grading module. The AI engine will instantly apply automated pattern grading, mathematically scaling your base pattern to create a perfectly nested set of pattern pieces for every size.

Step 3: Configure Export Settings

Navigate to the 'Export' menu and explicitly select 'CAD / CAM (DXF AAMA)'.

File Structure: You will be prompted to choose between exporting the sizes as individual DXF files or as a single "nested" DXF file. Always ask your manufacturer for their preference, as different factory CAD systems handle nesting differently.

Step 4: Pair with the Tech Pack

A DXF file only provides the cutting shapes; it does not tell the factory how to sew them together. Never send a DXF file alone. Always bundle your exported DXF patterns with the comprehensive, AI-generated Tech Pack provided by Kleiders. This ensures the factory understands the seam finishes, hardware placements, and construction methods intended for the precise geometry of your pattern.

How to Export DXF Patterns for Your Factory