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Tools & Setup

This section outlines the tools and basic setup used throughout the program.


You do not need advanced equipment or every software listed here to participate effectively.

 

Our goal is clarity — not complexity.

 

Required Tools

These tools are needed to fully participate in live sessions and materials:

 

  • Laptop or desktop computer
    A full computer is required to view materials, follow demonstrations, and work comfortably.
    (Working from a phone or small tablet is not recommended.)

 

  • Teams
    Used for all live small group sessions. 

      (Don't worry if you don't have a Microsoft membership.)

 

  • Excel or Google Sheets
    Used for reviewing and discussing specs, measurements, and reference files.

 

  • PDF Viewer
    For agendas, tech packs, reference documents, and shared materials.

 

  • Fit Kit
    At minimum, your fit kit should include safety pins #3 or #5 size, a reliable measuring tape, an 18" grid ruler, and calculator.

 

If you are unsure whether your setup is sufficient, that’s okay — we’ll help clarify during the first session.

 

Optional Tools

These tools may be referenced or demonstrated but are not required:

 

  • Adobe Illustrator
    May be used for examples, markups, or demonstrations, but is not required to participate.

 

  • Image editing or markup tools

 

Optional tools are shared to support learning — not to create additional cost, pressure, or setup work.

 

Export Settings

When exports are required, we will clearly specify:

 

  • File type (PDF, jpeg, etc.)

  • Page size or scale

  • Resolution (only when it matters)

 

You will never be expected to guess export settings.

 

Troubleshooting Basics

If something isn’t working:

 

  • Confirm the correct file is open

  • Check that the software is up to date

  • Restart the application 

 

If issues continue, bring them to the session or flag them using the support guidance provided.


Troubleshooting is part of the learning process.

 

Important Note

You do NOT need every tool, feature, or software version to succeed in this program.

 

We focus on understanding workflows and decision-making — not mastering software for its own sake.

 

If something feels unclear or overwhelming, that’s a signal to ask — not a problem.

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