Apparel Patternmaker

Cutter, Designer, Fabric Cutter, Pattern Designer, Pattern Maker, Pattern Technician, Production Pattern Maker, Sewing Pattern Layout Technician, Technical Designer

Fabric and apparel patternmakers are professionals who create patterns for the production of garments and other fabric items. Their work is integral to the fashion and apparel industries.

• 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.

• Critical Thinking — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
• Active Listening — Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
• Judgment and Decision Making — Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
• Time Management — Managing one's own time and the time of others.
• Active Learning — Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.