Description
Design, draft, and grade precision garment patterns, creating master patterns and layouts for production. May also mark and cut fabric for samples and finished apparel.
- • Fit and evaluate sample garments to validate patterns.
- • Annotate pattern pieces with joins, pleats, pockets, buttonholes, and other construction details using CAD or drafting tools.
- • Optimize marker layouts to minimize fabric waste and mark fabric accordingly.
- • Grade patterns to create size ranges using CAD, charts, or grading devices.
- • Draft new patterns or adapt existing ones to meet design specifications.
- • Create production-ready paper or digital master patterns from design concepts.
- • Cut or print master and sample patterns using scissors, knives, plotters, or cutters.
- • Collaborate with designers to translate sketches and prototypes into pattern sets.
- • Label samples and patterns with size, section, style, identifiers, and sewing instructions.
- • Calculate pattern dimensions and allowances, accounting for stretch, shrinkage, and ease.
- • Review sketches, samples, and specs to determine pattern shapes and fabric requirements.
- • Create and cut cardboard templates for repeated use.
- • Trace specified patterns onto fabric and cut sample pieces when needed.
- • Enter and manage pattern specifications in CAD systems to support design and cutting.
- • Adjust and finalize patterns after fittings and wear tests.
- • Write or update construction specifications for sewing and assembly.
Related specializations
Interview options
Interview options
Interviewee gender
Interviewee accent
Interview time
Source
Tasks & skills:
O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
Learn more
Sources & Standards:
This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
