Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers Job Description

The Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers draw and construct sets of precision master fabric patterns or layouts. Also they mark and cut out fabrics and apparel.

Tasks for Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers:

• The Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers test patterns by making and fitting sample garments.
• The Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers 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.
• The Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers determine the best layout of pattern pieces to minimize waste of material, and mark fabric accordingly.
• The Fabric and Apparel Patternmaker creates a master pattern for each size within a range of garment sizes, using charts, drafting instruments, computers, and or grading devices.
• The Fabric and Apparel Patternmaker draw outlines of pattern parts by adapting or copying existing patterns, or by drafting new patterns.
• The Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers create a paper pattern from which to mass-produce a design concept.
• The Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers position and cut out master or sample patterns, using scissors and knives, or print out copies of patterns, using computers.
• The Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers 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.
• The Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers mark samples and finished patterns with information such as garment size, section, style, identification, and sewing instructions.
• The Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers compute dimensions of patterns according to sizes, considering stretching of material. and Apparel Patternmaker need knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles

The Fabric involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models. They also need knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods. The Fabric and Apparel Patternmaker needs the ability to understand written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents. The Fabric and Apparel Patternmaker must give their 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. They must also be able to talk to others to convey information effectively so that the newly designed patterns can be created in mass production. They must also be able to convey their ideas to their team in order to create new patterns.

The Fabric and Apparel Patternmaker must use mathematics in order to get the right sizing and add designs to the initial pattern. Their ability in mathematics is vital in their work. The Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers need to be able to use logic and reasoning to identify the strength and weaknesses and find alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches that will resolve any problem connected to their design. Most Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers realize that costs are vital when making a design for mass production so they are much aware of this factor when they are doing their design work. Time spent on a project can become costly as well so a Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers must be able to manage their time as well as the time of their team.

The Fabric and Apparel Patternmaker must have the ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or arranged. The Ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g. patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations). The Fabric and Apparel Patternmaker must have the ability to see details at close range within a few feet of the observer. They also must have the ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences. They must be able to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand. Of course a Fabric and Apparel Patternmaker must have the ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situation, or to develop creative ways to solve a problem. Their ability to create designs that will look appropriate for any specific problem shows their creative ability.