This article explains why changes made in your Illustrator file may not immediately appear in the tech pack and how to ensure updates are reflected correctly.
First: Identify the Type of Change
Different types of updates happen on different sketch types. Identifying the type of change will help you resolve the issue quickly.
Design Changes (Sketch Updates)
If the design itself changed (for example, silhouette, seam placement, proportions, or construction lines):
- Make the update on the Primary Sketch (PS).
- All linked Detail Sketches (DS) will automatically reflect the updated Primary Sketch.
- Save the Illustrator file to sync the changes.
Primary Sketches act as the source sketch for all linked Detail Sketches.
Annotation Changes (Specs and Callouts)
If the change relates to annotations, such as:
- Points of Measure (POMs)
- Spec lines
- Callouts or notes
Then:
- Updates must be made on a Detail Sketch (DS).
- Annotations cannot be added or edited on a Primary Sketch.
- Save the Illustrator file to sync the changes.
Detail Sketches are the only place where annotations exist.
Most Common Reason: The File Hasn’t Been Saved
Tech Pack Wizard updates are reflected only after the Illustrator file is saved.
If changes are not appearing:
Save the Illustrator file.
Review the tech pack again.
This applies to:
- Detail Sketch updates
- Spec line edits
- Callout text changes
Changes to Detail Sketch Annotations
Callout Edits
If callout text changes are not appearing:
- Callout text must be edited directly on the artboard.
- The Callouts Tool popup does not reopen for existing callouts.
- Save the Illustrator file to sync the changes.
Spec (POM) Edits
If a POM line or spec value was edited:
- POM geometry edits must be made using the Direct Selection Tool (A).
- Spec value edits must be made in the Graded Specs page or via the Fit Sheet.
- Save the Illustrator file for changes to reflect.
Fit Sheet Revisions
Graded specs are always based on the most recently added Fit Sheet.
If specs look unexpected:
- Check whether a newer Fit Sheet was added.
- The latest Fit Sheet takes priority for sample size measurements.
Exported Files Don’t Show Updates
If an exported PDF or Excel file does not include recent changes:
- Confirm the Illustrator file was saved before exporting.
- Re-export the tech pack after saving.
Exported files are static and do not update automatically.
Summary Checklist
If something isn’t updating, check the following:
- Was the change a design update or an annotation update?
- Were design changes made on the Primary Sketch?
- Were annotation changes made on a Detail Sketch?
- Was the Illustrator file saved after the change?
- Was the tech pack re-exported if needed?
Most update issues are resolved by saving the file and reviewing the latest state.