| THE WORK:
Sample machinists are a key part of the clothing design team. They work closely with designers, garment technologists and pattern cutters to create the first made-up sample of a garment design.
What does a sample machinist do?
Sample machinists are a key part of the clothing design team. They work closely with designers, garment technologists and pattern cutters to create the first made-up sample of a garment design.
The sample machinist will work with the designer to achieve the desired end product. Once the construction has been agreed, specific production details will be given to the manufacturer.
A sample machinist will follow the instructions of the designer, pattern cutter and garment technologist when sewing the sample together. They may occasionally use hand-sewing techniques but their work most commonly requires the use of a sewing machine. They will also be involved in the pressing of the finished garment.
An experienced sample machinist may also be involved in making quality control checks during production and helping the other machinists during busy periods. |
| HOURS AND ENVIRONMENT:
A sample machinist would typically work between 37 and 40 hours a week, additional hours may be required when deadlines need to be met.
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| SKILLS AND INTERESTS:
It may be useful for a person considering a career as a sample machinist to have some of the following skills and interests: · excellent sewing skills (both hand and machine)
· knowledge on production methods and fabric types
· basic knowledge of design and the ability to advise on garment construction
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| ENTRY :
It is usual for an applicant to progress into this role after gaining the relevant experience as a sewing machinist on a production line. Alternatively, it may be possible to take an appropriate college course, which will cover some of the basic skills needed to start in this career. The following courses are designed to provide the skills needed to become a sewing machinist:
· ABC Level 1, 2 or 3 Award, Certificate or Diploma in fashion and textiles
· ABC Level 3 Certificate in apparel manufacturing technology
· ABC Level 2 NVQ in manufacturing sewn products
· ABC Level 2 Certificate in sewing and textiles
· ABC Level 3 Diploma in garment technology
It may also be possible to gain entry into a career in this area through an apprenticeship, for more information, visit the website: www.apprenticeship.org.uk. |
| TRAINING :
Once working, it is usual for the employer to provide on-the-job training on different production methods, techniques and fabric and product types. It may be possible for someone already in the industry to work towards vocational qualifications, such as those listed above, which will help with career prospects.
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| OPPORTUNITIES:
There may be opportunities for a sample machinist to progress to a higher-level technical role, such as garment technologist or quality control inspector. It may also be possible for a sample machinist to extend their role to include the design of garments. |
| ANNUAL INCOME :
The starting salary for a sample machinist may be between £11,000 and £18,000 a year. This may increase with experience to around £20,000 a year. Very experienced and senior sample machinists may earn around £30,000 a year. Qualification information (external sources)
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| CASE STUDY | |
Sample machinist, Kiran Sharma, has been with Leicester-based Vinola Knitwear for 24 years....
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