Fabric & Apparel Patternmakers

Also Called: Designer, Pattern Designer, Pattern Maker, Production Pattern Maker

High School Diploma/GED

usually needed

Not Available
(Students Only)
Match Percentage

$31,780

Entry Salary

Below Average

Job outlook

What Fabric & Apparel Patternmakers do

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

  • 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.
Industry Areas:

Advanced Manufacturing • Automotive & Machine Repair • Construction • Hospitality

Expand For Additional Details

Work Context

  • Face-to-Face Discussions
  • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate
  • Contact With Others
  • Work With Work Group or Team
  • Freedom to Make Decisions

Tools

  • Dressmakers ruler
  • Punches or nail sets or drifts
  • Shears
  • Seam ripper
  • Pattern cutting mats or boards

Technology

Graphics or photo imaging software
Adobe Systems Adobe Illustrator
Adobe Systems Adobe Photoshop
Computer aided design CAD software
Gerber Technology AccuMark
PatternMaker
Spreadsheet software
Microsoft Excel

The Education & Training You Need

Skills

  • Critical Thinking
  • Active Listening
  • Judgment and Decision Making
  • Time Management
  • Active Learning

Knowledge

Engineering and Technology
design
Math and Science
arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, or statistics
Arts and Humanities
English language
Manufactured or Agricultural Goods
manufacture and distribution of products

Education

  • 41% High school diploma or equivalent
  • 26% Bachelor's degree
  • 19% Some college, no degree

Experience

Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.

What are some related occupations at different educational levels?


Fabric & Apparel Patternmakers Currently Selected

Educational Level

High School Diploma or Equivalent

 Job Training Match

Patternmakers, Metal & Plastic

Educational Level

Post-secondary, non-degree

 Job Training Match

Mechanical Drafters

Educational Level

Associate's Degree

Project Management Specialists

Educational Level

Bachelor's Degree

Farm & Home Management Educators

Educational Level

Advanced Degree

What are your training options on the pathway to this occupation?

Advanced Training

There are currently no advanced training opportunities for this career.

ACT & College

  • Arkansas State University-Beebe

    Beebe, AR

  • Ball State University

    Muncie, IN

Apprenticeships

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Are You a Good Fit?

Occupation Traits

    • Artistic (Creator)
    • Conventional (Organizer)
    • Realistic (Doer)

Work Styles

  • Attention to Detail
  • Dependability
  • Adaptability/Flexibility
  • Integrity
  • Initiative
  • Cooperation

Values

  • Support
  • Relationships
  • Working Conditions

Abilities

  • Math
  • Ideas and Logic
  • Verbal
  • Hand and Finger Use

This is what Fabric & Apparel Patternmakers across the country typically make.

$15.28 / hour
$31,780 /year

Entry Level

$30.05 / hour
$62,510 /year

Median Level

$51.38 / hour
$106,870 /year

Experienced Level

Income information reflects a regional average.
Income information reflects a national average.

This career’s National Job Outlook is

Below Average

Please be sure to verify the outlook of this occupation with your instructor.

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