The 1970s saw the introduction of CAD/CAM systems. Initially, these systems were expensive and only the major companies could afford them. However, in the 1980s and 1990s CAD/CAM fell in price and even the small and medium sized companies invested in this new technology.
Side by side with the CAD/CAM knitting technology, the process of whole garment knitting was introduced. Cutting fabric into shapes and then stitching the pieces together to create garments has been in practice since the 18th century. In the 1970s companies researched more efficient technologies which could produce a complete garment in one process without the need for sewing. Without the loss of fabric associated with cut and sew techniques, garments could be knitted quickly. This was the "Whole garment Technology" which was further developed in the 1990s by Shima Seiki of Japan. Shima Seiki achieved this advancement in knitting technology by developing the slide needle. The slide needle was the result of research of the latch needle and the knitting process.
Wholegarment knitted clothes provide greater comfort than cut and sew clothes. The absence of seams means that the garment can fit close to the body and stretch more easily. Wholegarment machines are also capable of producing complex designs. 2D knitted fabric is replaced by 3D knitwear, shaped and pleated as required.