Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers

What the job really is

Draw and construct sets of precision master fabric patterns or layouts. May also mark and cut fabrics and apparel.

At a glance

• Sector: Production
• O*NET-SOC code: 51-6092
• O*NET job zone: 3 — medium preparation
• Work sample tasks on file: 12
• Tools and technologies listed: 12

What you actually do

Work sample tasks recorded for this occupation:

• Create a master pattern for each size within a range of garment sizes, using charts, drafting instruments, computers, or grading devices.
• Input specifications into computers to assist with pattern design and pattern cutting.
• Draw details on outlined parts to indicate where parts are to be joined, as well as the positions of pleats, pockets, buttonholes, and other features, using computers or drafting instruments.
• Make adjustments to patterns after fittings.
• Compute dimensions of patterns according to sizes, considering stretching of material.
• Mark samples and finished patterns with information, such as garment size, section, style, identification, and sewing instructions.
• Draw outlines of pattern parts by adapting or copying existing patterns, or by drafting new patterns.
• Test patterns by making and fitting sample garments.
• Position and cut out master or sample patterns, using scissors and knives, or print out copies of patterns, using computers.
• Create a paper pattern from which to mass-produce a design concept.
• Discuss design specifications with designers, and convert their original models of garments into patterns of separate parts that can be laid out on a length of fabric.
• Examine sketches, sample articles, and design specifications to determine quantities, shapes, and sizes of pattern parts, and to determine the amount of material or fabric required to make a product.

Tools and technology

Adobe Creative Cloud software, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign, Adobe Photoshop, Autodesk AutoCAD, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Office software, Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft Word, Curve sticks, Dress form mannequins, Fabric shears

What employers expect you to already be comfortable with.

Where this job leads

Related occupations — the usual moves up and sideways:

• Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic
• Sewers, Hand
• Patternmakers, Wood
• Tailors, Dressmakers, and Custom Sewers
• Fashion Designers
• Layout Workers, Metal and Plastic
• Cutters and Trimmers, Hand
• Sewing Machine Operators

Getting in

O*NET assigns this occupation job zone 3 (medium preparation). The related occupations above are the realistic routes in and out.

Find openings

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Check this against the source

O*NET OnLine: Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers — the authoritative public-domain profile this page is derived from, including the full task list, reported skills and the wage estimates for your region.

Derived and rewritten from the public-domain O*NET database (U.S. Department of Labor / Employment and Training Administration). Figures are observations, not promises — always confirm salary, licensing and visa requirements with the employer and the relevant authority.