Pattern Maker (Textiles and Garments)

  • Textiles, Clothing and Footwear

Weave creativity with precision.

Pattern Makers are the unsung heroes of the fashion world. They transform 2D sketches into 3D wearable art, crafting the blueprints that bring designers’ visions to life.

Pattern Makers play a crucial role in the textile and garment industry, bridging the gap between design concepts and manufacturing reality. They are responsible for creating precise, scalable patterns that serve as templates for mass production of clothing and textile items. Their work is fundamental to ensuring that garments fit well, are producible, and align with the original design intent.

Using a combination of traditional skills and modern technology, Pattern Makers work with a variety of materials and must have an in-depth understanding of fabric properties, construction techniques, and body measurements. They often use computer-aided design (CAD) software to draft and modify patterns, but many still rely on manual pattern-making skills for intricate designs or custom work.

In a typical day, a Pattern Maker might consult with designers to understand their vision, create or modify patterns based on design specifications, produce sample garments for fitting sessions, and make necessary adjustments to ensure proper fit and style. They also play a key role in optimising patterns for cost-effective production, considering factors like fabric usage and manufacturing processes.

In this role, you will:

  1. Create and modify patterns based on designer sketches and specifications
  2. Develop size gradations for patterns to accommodate different body types
  3. Produce and fit sample garments to assess pattern accuracy
  4. Use CAD software to digitise and manipulate patterns
  5. Collaborate with designers, tailors, and production teams to refine designs

Becoming a Pattern Maker typically requires a combination of education and hands-on experience. While formal qualifications are not always mandatory to start, they can provide a solid foundation and increase job prospects. There are direct entry, vocational education and training and university pathways to become a pattern maker. Here are steps to become a Pattern Maker:

  1. Complete a vocational course or diploma in fashion design or pattern making
  2. Gain practical experience through internships or entry-level positions in the fashion industry
  3. Develop proficiency in pattern-making software and CAD programs
  4. Build a portfolio showcasing your pattern-making skills and completed projects
  5. Consider specialising in a particular area of fashion (e.g., lingerie, sportswear, or haute couture)
Also Known As:
  • Textile Pattern Designer
  • Garment Pattern Developer
  • Fashion Pattern Maker
  • Clothing Pattern Drafter
A Quick Look
Key Skills:

Skills which may benefit anyone considering a job as a pattern maker (textiles and garments) include:

  • Attention to detail
  • Precision
  • Problem solving
  • Spatial awareness
  • Technical drawing and interpretation
Values & Attributes:

Values and attributes of anyone considering a job as a pattern maker (textiles and garments) include:

  • Creativity
  • Patience
  • Adaptable
  • Collaborative
  • Perfectionism
  • Realistic – “Do-er”
Recommended School Subjects:
  • Visual Arts
  • Visual Arts in Practice
Core School Subjects:
  • Essential Mathematics
  • Essential English
  • Design
  • Fashion
Related Industries

Salary Expectations

The expected salary for a Pattern Maker (Textiles and Garments) can vary across different areas of manufacturing and may vary as you become more experienced.

Low
$55,000
Median
$70,000
High
$90,000

Vocational education and training provide a practical pathway to becoming a Pattern Maker. These programs offer hands-on experience and industry-relevant skills. Here are some qualifications that can help you start or advance your career in pattern making:

  • Certificate II in Apparel, Fashion and Textiles (MST20722)
  • Certificate III in Apparel, Fashion and Textiles (MST31022)
  • Certificate IV in Textile Design and Technology (MST40122)

For those looking to grow into leadership roles or deepen their expertise:

  • Diploma of Apparel, Fashion and Textiles (MST50122)
  • Advanced Diploma of Apparel, Fashion and Textiles (MST60122)
  • Certificate IV in Small Business Management (BSB40120)

While not always required, university education can provide a deeper understanding of fashion design principles and advanced pattern-making techniques. A bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design or Textile Technology can be beneficial for career advancement and may be preferred by some high-end fashion houses or larger manufacturers.

University programs typically cover a broader range of topics including fashion history, trend forecasting, and business aspects of the fashion industry. They also often provide opportunities for internships and industry connections. Skills gained through these programs include advanced pattern construction, fashion illustration, garment technology, and fashion business management.

Pathways to university education may include:

  • Completing a vocational diploma and using it as a credit towards a bachelor’s degree
  • Directly entering a bachelor’s program after high school with a portfolio

Pursuing a postgraduate degree in fashion design or pattern making after gaining industry experience

Career progression

In this role, you may have the opportunity to progress to other positions. Career progression opportunities include:

Explore the general manufacturing and engineering

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