CFChooseField
Production

Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers

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

Visual summary of pay, outlook, skills, interests, and preparation for Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers
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Median pay

$67,670
Median annual pay for Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024
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10-year growth

-10.2%
Projected employment growth from 2024 to 2034.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024–2034 projections
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Annual openings

300
Projected annual openings, including growth and replacement demand.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024–2034 projections
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Employment

2,800
Estimated U.S. employment for Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers in 2024.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024
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Jobs added or lost

-300
Projected numeric employment change from 2024 to 2034.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024–2034 projections
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Entry preparation

High school diploma or equivalent
Typical additional preparation: Moderate-term on-the-job training.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024 profile
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O*NET occupation profile

What the work involves

Strongest O*NET signals first.

Essential skills

  1. 1Critical Thinking
  2. 2Active Listening
  3. 3Active Learning
  4. 4Mathematics
  5. 5Monitoring
  6. 6Reading Comprehension

Knowledge areas

  1. 1Design
  2. 2Mathematics
  3. 3English Language
  4. 4Production and Processing
  5. 5Education and Training
  6. 6Engineering and Technology

Abilities

  1. 1Near Vision
  2. 2Visualization
  3. 3Information Ordering
  4. 4Originality
  5. 5Deductive Reasoning
  6. 6Mathematical Reasoning

Career interests

  1. 1Realistic
  2. 2Artistic
  3. 3Conventional
  4. 4Enterprising
  5. 5Investigative
  6. 6Social

Work styles

  1. 1Attention to Detail
  2. 2Dependability
  3. 3Cautiousness
  4. 4Innovation
  5. 5Achievement Orientation
  6. 6Perseverance

Work activities

  1. 1Getting Information
  2. 2Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
  3. 3Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings
  4. 4Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events
  5. 5Thinking Creatively
  6. 6Making Decisions and Solving Problems

Work context

  1. 1Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams
  2. 2Importance of Being Exact or Accurate
  3. 3Work With or Contribute to a Work Group or Team
  4. 4Contact With Others
  5. 5Freedom to Make Decisions
  6. 6Coordinate or Lead Others in Accomplishing Work Activities

Representative tasks

  • 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.

Software and tools

Adobe Illustrator · in demandAdobe Photoshop · in demandAutodesk AutoCAD · in demandMicrosoft Excel · in demandMicrosoft Office software · in demandAdobe Creative Cloud software · hot technologyAdobe InDesign · hot technologyMicrosoft Outlook · hot technologyMicrosoft Word · hot technologyGerber Technology AccuMarkPatternMaker

Sources

BLS provides national pay, employment, and projections. O*NET provides skills, interests, preparation, tasks, work context, and tools.

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