not just a shop product open call
Our not just a shop open call is now open for submissions from all current UAL students, graduates and alumni! not just a shop sells a wide range of gifts, cards and wrapping paper, exclusively made by UAL students and graduates. Makers can apply through one of two routes for the opportunity to be stocked in our online and retail shops. Deadline: 2 March 2026

Engineered Print & 3D Garment Developer (CLO3D)

Salary £375 flat fee
Hours 25 hours
Location London
Closing Date 23 March 2026
Position Type Freelance
Advert expires on 23 March 2026

Main Duties

1. Pattern Reverse-Engineering & produce a Spec

  • Reverse-Engineer a Block: Analyse a provided physical reference (sportswear) garment to draft a professional 17-piece tailored block “inspired by” the fit and construction of the reference.
  • Tech Pack Synthesis: Translate substantial existing brand research into a formal technical specification. This includes codifying fabric requirements, hardware/fittings, (both aspects well documented) and construction methods necessary to realise a 1-colour pattern.

2. 3D Digital Prototyping (CLO3D/Optitex) 

  • 3D Verification: Assemble the 17-piece block in a 3D environment to verify silhouette, fit, and seam logic.
  • Asset Visualisation: Produce high-fidelity 360-degree renders to serve as tangible resources for a brand feasibility and research document.

3. Engineered Image Integration – enabling the (existing / 1st task) 17-piece tailored block to be printed with an image (rather than a single colour)  

  • Placement Engineering: Map a single high-resolution photographic image across the 17-piece pattern.
  • Production Logic: Execute the division of the 2D image while accounting for Mechanical Overlap (seam allowances), Tailoring Compensation (geometric warp for 3D curves), and Digital Asset Extension (background out-painting).

4. Final Deliverables

  • Provide a digital pattern (.DXF) and a production-ready 2D Marker/Print file (PDF/TIFF) where the photographic asset is precisely integrated into the 17-piece pattern shapes.

Skills and Experience Required

Skills and Experience Required

  • Fluent in English please
  • Pattern Drafting: Intermediate experience in technical reverse-engineering and drafting complex blocks from physical references.
  • 3D Software Proficiency: Proven ability to use CLO3D or Optitex for garment assembly, fit verification, and high-fidelity rendering.
  • Engineered Print Expertise: Technical understanding of UV mapping, placement engineering, and managing seam continuity across multi-panel garments.
  • Digital Image Manipulation: Proficiency in Adobe Photoshop for digital asset extension (out-painting) and preparing high-resolution assets for print.
  • Technical Documentation: Ability to codify research into clear specifications or foundation tech packs.
  • Academic Level: Most likely BA final year, MA student or freelancer with a focus on Fashion Design or Digital Fashion Technology

    The project timeline and remuneration are structured on the assumption of technical fluency in CLO3D/Optitex; candidates must be able to demonstrate an existing expertise / professional knowledge & efficient workflow without the need for training.