Abstract: A matching method and apparatus for the automatic cutting of patterned fabrics by an integrated marking and cutting system first defines matching points in each of the patterns of panels to be cut and digitizes these points so that the coordinates and respective identification codes for each of the points are recorded in a memory. Matching relationships are then defined for the matching points which unequivocally fix the position which the design must be in at each of the matching points and digitizes and records these relationships in the memory. Separation margins between the panels in their distribution are then established either automatically or interactively on the basis of the previously defined matching relationships and a vision sensor is then automatically positioned over the spread patterned fabric which is to be cut in the positions of the matching points which have been defined for each one of the panels which have been distributed for cutting.