Fabric / Apparel Patternmaker

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

O*NET reports this occupation under titles such as: Cutter; Designer; Fabric Cutter; Pattern Designer; Pattern Maker; Pattern Technician; Production Pattern Maker; Sewing Pattern Layout Technician; Technical Designer

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.
• 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.
• Determine the best layout of pattern pieces to minimize waste of material, and mark fabric accordingly.
• Create design specifications to provide instructions on garment sewing and assembly.
• Trace outlines of paper onto cardboard patterns, and cut patterns into parts to make templates.

Knowledge

• Design
• Mathematics
• Production and Processing
• English Language
• Education and Training

Skills

• Critical Thinking
• Active Listening
• Reading Comprehension
• Speaking
• Mathematics
• Active Learning
• Monitoring
• Writing
• Learning Strategies

Abilities

• Visualization
• Near Vision
• Originality
• Information Ordering
• Written Comprehension
• Oral Expression
• Deductive Reasoning
• Mathematical Reasoning
• Number Facility
• Finger Dexterity
• Oral Comprehension
• Category Flexibility
• Fluency of Ideas
• Problem Sensitivity
• Inductive Reasoning
• Perceptual Speed
• Selective Attention
• Written Expression
• Flexibility of Closure
• Arm-Hand Steadiness
• Manual Dexterity
• Far Vision
• Speech Recognition
• Speech Clarity
• Time Sharing
• Control Precision
• Visual Color Discrimination