| THE WORK:
A pattern cutter is responsible for turning a designer’s sketch into a working pattern, which can be used when constructing the garment. What does a pattern cutter do?
A pattern cutter is responsible for turning a designer’s sketch into a working pattern, which can be used when constructing the garment.
There are three main ways in which a pattern can be made. The most common technique is to develop the pattern from a standard pattern ‘block,’ which is made of cardboard. This can then be changed and developed to fit in with the new design.
The second way is to adapt a pattern ‘base,’ which is also made of cardboard. The ‘base’ is similar to the ‘block’ except that it is not a standard pattern.
The third method is when a light-weight fabric is draped over a dummy and the pattern pieces are then hand-cut in accordance with the way the fabric falls.
Computer packages are commonly used to create the pattern pieces, but some pattern cutters still work by hand, others will use a combination of both.
|
| HOURS AND ENVIRONMENT:
Pattern cutters normally work between 37 and 39 hours a week. Overtime hours may be required when working to deadlines and part-time hours may be available. Pattern cutters would normally be based in a studio or workroom; this space will be light and well lit. It will also be spacious so that patterns can be laid out. Those using computerised programmes may also be based in front of a computer screen. |
| SKILLS AND INTERESTS:
It may be useful for someone considering a career as a pattern cutter to have some of the following skills and interests, some of which can be obtained by completing a relevant course: · an interest in fashion and trends
· the ability to interpret a designer’s working drawing
· knowledge of garment construction and pattern cutting techniques
· good IT and numeracy skills
· the ability to work quickly and accurately within a team
|
| ENTRY :
There is a strong demand for pattern cutters with the relevant technical skills and so employers usually look for people who have some form of relevant training. The following courses are available in the area of pattern cutting: · ABC Level 2 and 3 Certificate in pattern cutting
· ABC Level 3 Award in pattern cutting and construction techniques
· City & Guilds Level 2 Award in creative techniques in fashion – pattern cutting
· City & Guilds Level 3 Award in creative techniques in fashion – pattern cutting
For more information on the ABC qualifications, visit the website: www.abcawards.co.uk/. For more information on City & Guilds qualifications, visit the website: www.cityandguilds.com/.
It may also be possible to gain entry to this career through an apprenticeship. For more information on apprenticeships, visit the website: www.apprenticeships.org.uk.
Some entrants to this area will have a relevant degree or HND in pattern cutting or a related subject. Some fashion design courses have pattern cutting modules, which incorporate the technical knowledge needed for a career in this area. The following universities offer fashion courses with pattern cutting options:
· Manchester Metropolitan University
· London College of Fashion
· De Montfort University
· Heriot Watt University
· The University of Manchester
· The University of Northumbria
For more information about university courses, visit the UCAS website: www.ucas.co.uk.
|
| TRAINING :
Someone working in the area of pattern cutting may be able to work towards vocational qualifications such as the following courses: · ABC Level 3 Diploma in pattern technology
· ABC Level 2 NVQ in manufacturing sewn products
· ABC Level 3 NVQ in apparel manufacturing technology
For more information on the ABC awards, visit the website: www.abcawards.co.uk/.
Several institutions, such as the London College of Fashion (www.fashion.arts.ac.uk) offer short courses in pattern cutting. The Textile Institute (www.texi.org) also offer a range of professional qualifications.
|
| OPPORTUNITIES:
A pattern cutter with the relevant experience can expect to be promoted to head pattern cutter. They may also be able to move into a related career, such as pattern grader. With additional training, a pattern cutter may also be able to move into a career in design or buying. Self-employment may be possible for a very experienced worker.
|
| ANNUAL INCOME :
The starting salary of a pattern cutter can be between £11,000 and £18,000 a year. Experienced cutters can earn over £20,000 a year. Qualification information (external sources)
|
| CASE STUDY | |
If you’ve read through the profile, you should have a better understanding of what being a p...
|
|
