Top 10 Apparel Designer Certifications

Certifications are important for an apparel designer in the job market because they demonstrate a level of competency and expertise in the field. Certifications can help to set designers apart from their competition by providing evidence of their qualifications and skills, as well as a professional edge. Certifications also provide potential employers with assurance that the designer is up-to-date on industry trends and advancements, giving them confidence in hiring them. Lastly, certifications can open doors to new opportunities due to their recognition in the industry.

The purpose of this article is to review the most beneficial certifications for Apparel Designers and explain how they can contribute to an apparel designer's career.

What are Apparel Designer Certifications?

Apparel designer certification is a type of professional certification program that helps designers gain knowledge, skills and experience in the fashion industry. This certification program can help aspiring apparel designers establish their credentials and boost their employment or freelance opportunities. It also demonstrates an individual’s commitment to their craft and helps them stand out from other applicants.

The certification process includes both classroom-based learning as well as practical experience. Apparel designer certifications typically cover topics such as garment construction, pattern making, fabric selection, styling techniques, color theory, textile printing techniques and more. Upon successful completion of the course, individuals receive a certificate that attests to their knowledge and skills in the field.

Having an apparel designer certification can increase an individual’s prospects for success in the fashion industry. Employers may view certified designers more favorably when considering job candidates because it shows they have invested time and energy into honing their craft. Additionally, having this type of credential can open up new opportunities for freelance work or collaborations with other fashion professionals.

Pro tip: Research and understand the requirements for apparel designer certification before investing your time and money. Make sure you understand the scope of the certification, the cost, and any prerequisites that may be needed to qualify.

Related: What does an Apparel Designer do?

Top 10 Apparel Designer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Apparel Designers today.

1. Certified Apparel Design Professional (CADP)

Certified Apparel Design Professional (CADP) is a certification program designed to recognize and promote the professional development of apparel designers. The certification is awarded by the International Apparel Designers Association (IADA), which is an independent, non-profit organization that promotes excellence in the field of apparel design.

The CADP certification requires applicants to pass an exam that tests their knowledge and skills in areas such as product development, production, marketing, and consumer trends. The exam consists of multiple choice questions and essay questions. To qualify for the exam, applicants must have at least two years of experience in the apparel design industry or have completed a degree program related to apparel design.

The cost for taking the CADP exam is $300 USD. There are also additional fees for study materials and application processing. It typically takes about six weeks to receive your results after taking the exam. Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your official Certified Apparel Design Professional certificate from IADA.

The benefits of having a CADP certification include increased job opportunities and higher salaries in the apparel design field. It also gives you access to exclusive networking events, conferences, and other professional development opportunities hosted by IADA.

2. Certified Fashion Designer (CFD)

Certified Fashion Designer (CFD) is a professional certification program for fashion designers. It is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates expertise in the field of fashion design and establishes credibility with employers, clients, and peers.

The CFD program consists of a series of courses designed to provide comprehensive instruction in all aspects of fashion design. The curriculum covers topics such as sketching, patternmaking, fabric selection and construction techniques, garment styling and fit, color theory and more. Upon successful completion of the program, students are awarded the CFD designation.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete the CFD program depending on the student's prior experience and course load. The cost of the program varies depending on the institution offering it but generally ranges from $1,500 - $3,000 USD.

To get certified as a fashion designer one must first meet certain eligibility requirements such as having at least two years of professional experience in fashion design or related fields or completing an accredited college degree in fashion design or related fields. Once these requirements are met, applicants can then apply for admission into a CFD program offered by an accredited institution or organization.

3. Certified Apparel Technical Designer (CATD)

A Certified Apparel Technical Designer (CATD) is a professional certification that demonstrates mastery of the technical design process for apparel products. This certification is offered by the American Apparel and Footwear Association (AAFA).

It takes approximately four to five months to complete the CATD program. During this time, applicants must complete a series of online courses and exams that cover topics such as patternmaking, fabric selection, product development, and quality control. Upon successful completion of these courses and exams, applicants will receive their CATD certification.

To get started on the CATD program, applicants must first register with AAFA and pay the registration fee. The registration fee is currently $395 USD. After registering, applicants can then begin taking online courses and exams at their own pace.

Once all courses and exams have been completed successfully, applicants will receive their CATD certification from AAFA. This certificate can be used to demonstrate knowledge in apparel technical design to employers or clients.

4. Certified Sewing Professional (CSP)

Certified Sewing Professional (CSP) is a certification program offered by the American Sewing Guild (ASG). It is designed to recognize and promote professional excellence in sewing. The CSP certification is a mark of distinction for sewers who have achieved a high level of expertise in their craft.

The CSP certification requires the completion of an extensive course of study, which includes both online and in-person classes. The coursework covers topics such as fabric selection, pattern making, garment construction, machine maintenance and repair, and more. Upon successful completion of the coursework, sewers must pass a comprehensive exam to earn their CSP certification.

The cost of the CSP program varies depending on the number of courses taken, but typically ranges from $400-$600. The program usually takes about six months to complete, although some sewers may be able to finish it faster if they are already proficient in certain skills or have prior experience with sewing.

In addition to completing the coursework and passing the exam, sewers must also demonstrate proficiency in at least five different sewing techniques before they can become certified. These techniques include basic hand stitching, machine stitching, quilting, embroidery, and serging/overlocking. Once all requirements are met, sewers will receive their official CSP certificate from ASG.

5. Certified Textile Designer (CTD)

Certified Textile Designer (CTD) is a professional certification program offered by the International Textile and Apparel Association (ITAA). The CTD program provides an opportunity for professionals in the textile industry to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities in the field of textiles. The program is designed to recognize those who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the areas of fabric production, design, and marketing.

To become certified as a CTD, applicants must pass a comprehensive examination that covers topics such as fabric production, design principles and techniques, color theory, industry trends and regulations. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions as well as practical components. Applicants must also submit three examples of their work for review by an ITAA-approved panel.

The process typically takes four to six weeks from start to finish. After successful completion of the exam and submission of portfolio pieces, applicants will receive their certificate within two weeks.

The cost for the CTD program varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of ITAA. For members, it costs $100 USD; for non-members it costs $200 USD.

6. Certified Pattern Maker (CPM)

Certified Pattern Maker (CPM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the field of pattern making. The CPM certification program is administered by the Association of Sewing and Design Professionals (ASDP).

The CPM program requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in patternmaking through an examination process that includes both written and practical components. To become certified, applicants must pass a comprehensive written exam, as well as successfully complete two practical exams in which they must demonstrate their ability to create patterns for garments.

The entire certification process typically takes about six months from start to finish. During this time, applicants are expected to study for the written exam, practice creating patterns, and prepare for the practical exams.

In order to apply for the CPM program, applicants must submit an application form along with proof of education or experience in patternmaking. Applicants must also pay a fee which covers the cost of administering the program and taking the exams. The fee varies depending on whether or not you are already a member of ASDP; non-members will be charged $450 while members will be charged $250.

Once you have completed all requirements for certification, you will receive your official Certified Pattern Maker (CPM) certificate from ASDP. This certificate is valid for three years before needing to be renewed.

7. Certified Draping Specialist (CDS)

Certified Draping Specialist (CDS) is a professional certification program for individuals who are interested in learning the art of draping. The CDS certification program is offered by the Association of Sewing and Design Professionals (ASDP). It is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skill necessary to become a successful draper, or fabricator.

The CDS program consists of four levels: Basic, Intermediate, Advanced, and Master. Each level requires different levels of experience and knowledge. To become certified at each level, students must complete courses that cover topics such as pattern making, fabric selection, cutting techniques, sewing techniques, draping techniques, and more.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete all four levels of the CDS certification program.

To get started on the CDS certification program you must first become a member of ASDP. After becoming a member you can register for classes through their website or contact them directly for more information about class schedules and other details.

The cost for the CDS certification program varies depending on which level you are pursuing. Generally speaking it costs around $500-$1000 per level depending on how many classes you take and how long it takes you to complete them.

8. Certified Garment Technologist (CGT)

Certified Garment Technologist (CGT) is a professional certification program designed to equip garment industry professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to develop and manage quality garments. The program is offered by the International Association of Professional Garment Technologists (IAPGT).

The CGT certification requires completion of a two-year course of study, including both online and in-person training sessions. The curriculum covers topics such as garment construction, fabric selection, patternmaking, quality assurance, product development, and more. Upon successful completion of the program, individuals will receive a certificate from IAPGT that recognizes their expertise in garment technology.

To become certified as a CGT, individuals must first complete an application form and submit it to IAPGT for review. Once approved, applicants must pay an enrollment fee which varies depending on the country they are located in. After paying the fee, applicants will be given access to the online course materials and can begin their studies at any time.

The cost of becoming certified as a CGT varies depending on where you are located but generally ranges from $1,000 - $2,000 USD.

9. Certified Knitwear Designer (CKD)

Certified Knitwear Designer (CKD) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and reward individuals who have demonstrated excellence in the design, construction, and finishing of knitwear. It is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates a mastery of the craft and artistry of knitwear design.

The CKD program consists of two levels: Level 1 and Level 2. To become certified at either level, applicants must pass an exam administered by the Craft Yarn Council (CYC). The exams are offered twice per year in April and October.

To be eligible for the CKD program, applicants must have completed at least one year of formal training in knitwear design or four years of experience designing knitwear professionally. They must also submit three original designs for review by a panel of experienced designers.

The cost for the CKD program varies depending on whether you are taking the exam for Level 1 or Level 2 certification. The fee for Level 1 is $150 USD, while the fee for Level 2 is $300 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with submitting your designs for review.

Once you have passed the exam and been accepted into the program, you will receive a certificate from CYC recognizing your achievement as a Certified Knitwear Designer (CKD). You will also receive access to exclusive resources such as discounts on yarns and supplies, access to online forums with other designers, and more.

10. Certified Footwear Designer (CFD)

Certified Footwear Designer (CFD) is a professional certification program offered by the International Footwear Designers Association (IFDA). It is designed to recognize and reward individuals who are dedicated to the practice of footwear design. The certification process includes an examination, portfolio review, and demonstration of knowledge in specific areas of footwear design.

The CFD program takes approximately one year to complete. To become certified, applicants must first submit an application form, which includes a portfolio of their previous work and a fee. Once accepted into the program, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as materials and construction techniques, product development processes, trends and forecasting, sustainability strategies, and marketing strategies for footwear products.

Applicants must also demonstrate their knowledge in specific areas through a portfolio review. This review is conducted by experienced IFDA members who assess the applicant’s ability to create innovative designs that meet consumer needs. After successful completion of all requirements, applicants will be awarded the CFD designation.

The cost of becoming a Certified Footwear Designer varies depending on the country or region you are applying from; however, it typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD.

Do You Really Need a Apparel Designer Certificate?

When it comes to the field of apparel design, there are many different paths of entry. Some may choose to learn the skills needed through self-study, while others may opt for a more formal route and pursue an apparel designer certificate program. So, do you really need an apparel designer certificate?

The answer depends largely on your goals and aspirations within the field of apparel design. If you plan on pursuing a career in this field, then having a certificate can be beneficial in several ways. For starters, it serves as proof that you have acquired the necessary knowledge and skills related to the job. This will give potential employers confidence in your abilities and could increase your chances of landing that ideal job. Additionally, having an official certification can also benefit those who wish to start their own business or freelance as an apparel designer. A certificate is often seen as proof that you are qualified for the job at hand and could help you earn more lucrative contracts with clients.

Furthermore, even if you don’t plan on pursuing a career in this field, obtaining a certificate can still be beneficial because it provides tangible evidence of your achievements and dedication to learning about the craft of apparel design. Having a certificate also shows potential employers that you take initiative and are constantly striving to improve yourself professionally.

Overall, whether or not you need an apparel designer certificate will depend on your individual goals within this field. If you want to pursue a career in apparel design or start your own business, then obtaining a certificate could help open doors for you and provide evidence that you have acquired the necessary knowledge and skills required for success.

Related: Apparel Designer Resume Examples

FAQs About Apparel Designer Certifications

1. What are the requirements for an apparel designer certification?

Answer: To become a certified apparel designer, you will typically need to have completed a relevant degree program in fashion design or a related field. You may also need to pass an exam administered by a professional organization such as the International Apparel Designers Association (IADA).

2. How long does it take to get an apparel designer certification?

Answer: It can take anywhere from several months to several years, depending on the type of certification and your experience level. Generally speaking, the more experience you have in the field, the faster you can complete your certification process.

3. Does having an apparel designer certification increase my salary?

Answer: Yes, having an apparel designer certification may result in higher pay and better job opportunities, as employers often prefer candidates with recognized credentials. Furthermore, many organizations offer higher salaries to certified professionals due to their expertise and knowledge of industry trends.

4. Are there any online courses available for apparel design certifications?

Answer: Yes, there are many online courses available that can help you prepare for an apparel design certification exam and gain knowledge about industry trends and techniques. However, most certifications require hands-on experience in order to be awarded, so it is best to supplement online learning with practical experience when possible.

5. How do I maintain my apparel designer certification?

Answer: Most certifications require ongoing professional development activities such as attending seminars and conferences or taking additional courses in order to maintain your credential status. Additionally, some organizations may require periodic recertification exams or renewal fees in order to keep your credential active and valid.