grafis.nl

What It Is

Grafis CAD is a professional CAD system for apparel patternmaking. grafis.nl is operated by De Patronenmaker as the official representative for the Netherlands and Belgium, providing sales, implementation, training, helpdesk services, and Zoom-based remote support. It is not a general-purpose drawing tool; it is industry software built around patterns, size charts, grading, seam matching, and production output for garment manufacturing.

Core Capabilities

Its core workflow starts with selecting an interactive basic block from a construction library, then adding seam allowances, silhouettes, and style development. Users can work with individual measurements, standard size charts, or company size charts, and the pattern updates parametrically as measurements change. This allows a style to move into grading relatively early. The software identifies related seams and keeps derived pieces aligned during later modifications. The base program includes import/export modules, can output standard DXF, and also supports other CAD formats. For plugins, Autonester is used for efficient automatic marker making, Cuttercontrol can drive cutting and plotting devices, and Stich and PluginVS support 3D simulation workflows for Browzwear VStitcher. PFP Photo can digitize patterns from photos, while PFP Measure can perform contactless body measurement based on front and side photos of a customer.

Pricing and Licensing

The Dutch version of Grafis CAD Version 25 costs €1,100 per year for a single workstation/single license, excluding 21% VAT; the VAT-inclusive price is €1,331. It uses a USB dongle. Schools, students, course participants, upgrades, and other products need to request a quote. The educational version can be downloaded for learning purposes, but it cannot output files, and its files cannot be transferred into a full commercial license.

Pros and Cons

Its strengths are its professional patternmaking logic, making it suitable for users with high requirements for fit, grading, and production output. DXF, plotter, and VStitcher workflow support also make it easier to connect with industry processes. The drawbacks are a relatively steep learning curve, and the official courses explicitly require users to be familiar with pattern development. Multi-user collaboration features are not described, so it appears to be more of a professional single-workstation workflow. Documentation is mainly in Dutch, while the FAQ relies on German or English content from the headquarters.

Who It’s For and Access from China

Grafis CAD is better suited to technical departments at apparel brands, independent patternmakers, bespoke studios, and fashion schools. It is less suitable for designers who only need lightweight fashion sketching. The main content does not specify access from China, payment methods, or local reseller availability, so these should be considered unknown. Users in China may also want to evaluate alternatives such as CLO 3D, Browzwear, Gerber AccuMark, Lectra Modaris, and Optitex.