Date of Graduation

5-2026

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Human Environmental Sciences

Degree Level

Undergraduate

Department

Apparel Merchandising and Product Development

Advisor/Mentor

Dr. Sarah Hixson

Committee Member

Dr. Laurie Apple

Second Committee Member

Dr. Lance Cheramie

Abstract

The fashion industry generates a substantial amount of textile waste each year, highlighting the need to incorporate more sustainable methods in the design and production of apparel garments. Emerging technologies such as three-dimensional (3D) body scanning and digital design software present the potential to reduce the amount of waste generated during product development while also improving fit and customer satisfaction. The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential of 3D body scanning to reduce waste in the apparel industry by comparing garment development using 3D digital design and traditional flat pattern design methods.

In this study, 3D body scanning and digital design software were used to develop a basic long sleeve shirt. A comparable garment was created using traditional flat pattern design methods. The amount of waste generated from each of these design methods was measured and compared. The results show that the integration of 3D body scanning and design technologies significantly reduced the amount of material waste produced during garment development. The findings from this study show that incorporating 3D body scanning and design software can substantially improve sustainability within the apparel industry while also improving fit and overall customer satisfaction.

Keywords

3D Body Scanning; Flat Pattern Design; Textile Waste Reduction; Apparel Production; Sustainable Fashion; Apparel Design Technology

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