Clothing Pattern Maker

Also called: Pattern Maker, Apparel Patternmaker, Fabric Patternmaker

Job Description: Clothing patternmakers make full-size paper or fiberboard patterns for clothing. Patternmakers use their expertise in body proportions and knowledge of fabric to translate the designer's apparel sketches into its various pattern pieces. Because of their understanding of the technical aspect of a design, patternmakers often act as liaisons between the design and manufacturing groups creating a specific clothing line.

Salary Range: $11,000 to $150,000+
Entry level pay may range from and hourly rate of $6/hr to $11,000/yr
Median pay range is about $21,000
Top level pay is about $40,000-$150,000
* There may be opportunities for earning overtime pay.

Outlook: Pattern makers are very important to designers and fashion houses, yet the number of people entering the trade has declined. As styles become more complicated, pattern makers are vital to the success of a design. There should be opportunities for talented people who choose to focus in this area, either in working for designers, manufacturers or as freelancers. See the latest article: Pattern Makers Given Kudos.

Qualifications: Education - a 1-2 year certificate or degree from a vocational or technical training school is usually required. Experience - Apprenticeships with more experienced patternmakers are very helpful, as is retail sales or design experience.
Personal Characteristics/Skills - great technical skills with an ability to use drafting tools (calipers, squares, straight and curved rules); expertise with body proportions; good computer skills (specifically with CAD programs - computer assisted drawing); ability to visualize the finished garment from a designers drawings, designs, and sketches; detail oriented; understanding of apparel manufacturing process; good communication skills.

Career Path: Fabric Cutter/Grader > Patternmaker > Assistant Designer > Designer. Alternatively Patternmakers may be promoted into Manufacturing/Production Management positions.