Using CAD for Repeat Patterns

Using CAD for Repeat Patterns

Advantages

1) It can be more accurate than hand drawn designs as it reduces human error as well as having the most accurate precision ans skill

2) You can save and edit your patterns as you go along which makes it easier and cheaper to modify your designs 

3) It allows you to change existing patterns or patterns you have already created but want to experiment with which saves time

4) It decreases the amount of time and effort as the software automates most of the work that goes into creating a repeat pattern

5) It is easy to share, save and store in a safe place which stops the possibility of damage to the design

Disadvantages

1) The software itself can be expensive so initial costs could be very high. There are free software packages however, but they aren't as good, due to having a lower amount of things your can do with your pattern

2) Staff are need to be trained in how to use the software if you are doing this professionally, which will also add to the cost

3) This process will require a Laptop, Computer or Tablet which too will add to the initial cost


Overall, I found it a lot easier to do the pattern by hand and then photocopy the design, before experimenting with the layout. I felt that by doing it by hand, I was able to see where points in the design matched up well and I wasn't restricted to only about 5 different layouts for my tiles. 
However, doing it by hand also meant there was a lot lower accuracy and it did look slightly messy. But, I can now go over my designs I did by hand and make it appear much neater. It was also more time consuming doing it by hand, although a lot of the time was spent experimenting with the layout which is quicker when using the software, but also very limited in design.