Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers
Fabric and apparel patternmakers draw and construct sets of precision master fabric patterns or layouts. They also mark and cut fabrics and apparel.
A fabric designer's job description involves producing patterns on paper or fabric for use in the clothing industry. Apparel patternmakers outline patterns based on a designer's sketch of a style. These specimen may be drafted on paper or in a computer program designed for patternmaking.
The fabric designer job description involves designing templates or patterns and programming them to perform production tasks. Patternmakers also draw guidelines or markings on materials or workpieces using patterns or other references and adjust fabrics or materials during garment production. Besides, they calculate the dimensions of workpieces, products, or equipment.
To be eligible, a patternmaker requires a high school diploma and job experience as a patternmaker. Besides, the ability to read and interpret design models and blueprints, proficiency with computer drafting solutions, fine motor skills and in-depth experience with measuring, sniping, milling and cutting tools are desirable skills.
A patternmaker profession generally involves working in the fashion industry. The career prospects in fabric and apparel design work closely with designers and design companies to create custom patterns. Their fabric designer's salary is commensurate to the nature, job role, company and location.
To be a successful pattern creator, an aspiring candidate should do an internship with an established designer or design company, exposing them to invaluable training and knowledge in the field.
Qualifications
Every career requires an element of study and academic qualification, and there can be several study routes and pathways you can take. In following any academic pathway you will study subjects that contribute to the specialised knowledge required to achieve your career goals. These qualifications provide a future employer with the evidence that you have the desired knowledge, understanding and experience of their industry, so it’s important to consider the various types of qualifications available to you and to understand how they can boost your career and create opportunities for you.
- M.F.Tech Master of Fashion Technology
- B.F.Tech Bachelor of Fashion Technology
- Diploma Engineering
Tasks
- Test patterns by making and fitting sample garments.
- 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.
- Determine the best layout of pattern pieces to minimize waste of material, and mark fabric accordingly.
- Create a master pattern for each size within a range of garment sizes, using charts, drafting instruments, computers, or grading devices.
- Draw outlines of pattern parts by adapting or copying existing patterns, or by drafting new patterns.
- Create a paper pattern from which to mass-produce a design concept.
- Position and cut out master or sample patterns, using scissors and knives, or print out copies of patterns, using computers.
- 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.
- Mark samples and finished patterns with information, such as garment size, section, style, identification, and sewing instructions.
- Compute dimensions of patterns according to sizes, considering stretching of material.
Progression Routes
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