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Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers

Medium53.64%
Found in Industries:
Manufacturing
Salary Range
Low (10th %)$31,780
Median$62,510
High (90th %)$106,870

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Draw and construct sets of precision master fabric patterns or layouts. May also mark and cut fabrics and apparel.

The occupation "Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers" has an automation risk of 53.6%, based closely on a base risk assessment of 54.7%. This moderate risk reflects the fact that while many patternmaking tasks can be automated, key aspects still rely on a human touch. Advances in computer-aided design (CAD) and automated cutting technologies mean that repetitive and highly structured elements of the job are increasingly feasible for machines. Tasks such as creating master patterns across size ranges using digital tools, inputting specifications into computers for pattern production, and drawing assembly details on digital templates are highly suitable for automation. These processes benefit from standardization and precision that machine systems can easily achieve, contributing substantially to the occupation’s risk level. However, not all responsibilities of fabric and apparel patternmakers are equally vulnerable to automation. Tasks that require fine motor skills and responsive tactile judgment, such as tracing specified pattern outlines onto fabric and cutting them with scissors, resisting automation due to their physical dexterity demands. Similarly, cutting paper patterns by hand to make templates and producing detailed design specifications for sewing and assembly demand creative judgments tailored to specific materials and fashions, limiting the effectiveness of current automation solutions. These resistant tasks ensure a continued, if reduced, need for skilled human patternmakers, especially in bespoke or complex design environments where customization and adaptability are critical. Critical bottleneck skills preserve a core human role in this occupation, with "Originality" measured at 3.8% and 3.9%. This indicates that, while computers can process and execute many technical functions, they still struggle with innovation in pattern design and creative problem-solving—the hallmarks of expert patternmakers. The nuanced adjustments required to translate design visions into practical garment patterns often demand imaginative approaches and iterative refinement, areas where artificial intelligence and machinery currently underperform relative to skilled professionals. As a result, despite substantial automation on the technical side, the occupation retains a moderate risk rating rather than a high one, due to the persistent value of original and adaptable human creativity.

Filter by Automatable Status
Create a master pattern for each size within a range of garment sizes, using charts, drafting instruments, computers, or grading devices.
Automatable
Input specifications into computers to assist with pattern design and pattern cutting.
Automatable
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.
Partially Automatable
Make adjustments to patterns after fittings.
Partially Automatable
Compute dimensions of patterns according to sizes, considering stretching of material.
Automatable
Draw outlines of pattern parts by adapting or copying existing patterns, or by drafting new patterns.
Partially Automatable
Test patterns by making and fitting sample garments.
Non-Automatable
Create a paper pattern from which to mass-produce a design concept.
Partially Automatable
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.
Partially Automatable
Examine sketches, sample articles, and design specifications to determine quantities, shapes, and sizes of pattern parts, and to determine the amount of material or fabric required to make a product.
Partially Automatable
Determine the best layout of pattern pieces to minimize waste of material, and mark fabric accordingly.
Automatable
Create design specifications to provide instructions on garment sewing and assembly.
Partially Automatable
Trace outlines of paper onto cardboard patterns, and cut patterns into parts to make templates.
Non-Automatable
Trace outlines of specified patterns onto material, and cut fabric, using scissors.
Non-Automatable
Mark samples and finished patterns with information, such as garment size, section, style, identification, and sewing instructions.
Partially Automatable
Position and cut out master or sample patterns, using scissors and knives, or print out copies of patterns, using computers.
Partially Automatable

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Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or MaterialsMonitoring Processes, Materials, or SurroundingsEstimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or InformationGetting InformationIdentifying Objects, Actions, and EventsJudging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or PeopleProcessing InformationEvaluating Information to Determine Compliance with StandardsAnalyzing Data or InformationMaking Decisions and Solving ProblemsThinking CreativelyUpdating and Using Relevant KnowledgeHandling and Moving ObjectsControlling Machines and ProcessesOperating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or EquipmentWorking with ComputersRepairing and Maintaining Electronic EquipmentDocumenting/Recording InformationDrafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and EquipmentInterpreting the Meaning of Information for OthersCommunicating with Supervisors, Peers, or SubordinatesCommunicating with People Outside the OrganizationEstablishing and Maintaining Interpersonal RelationshipsOrganizing, Planning, and Prioritizing WorkAssisting and Caring for OthersSelling or Influencing OthersRepairing and Maintaining Mechanical EquipmentResolving Conflicts and Negotiating with OthersPerforming for or Working Directly with the PublicCoordinating the Work and Activities of OthersDeveloping and Building TeamsTraining and Teaching OthersGuiding, Directing, and Motivating SubordinatesCoaching and Developing OthersProviding Consultation and Advice to OthersPerforming Administrative ActivitiesStaffing Organizational UnitsMonitoring and Controlling ResourcesDeveloping Objectives and StrategiesScheduling Work and ActivitiesPerforming General Physical Activities

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Commercial and Industrial Designers
Medium44.65%
Design and develop manufactured products, such as cars, home appliances, and children's toys. Combine artistic talent with research on product use, marketing, and materials to create the most functional and appealing product design.
Fashion Designers
Medium42.81%
Design clothing and accessories. Create original designs or adapt fashion trends.
Model Makers, Metal and Plastic
Medium47.80%
Set up and operate machines, such as lathes, milling and engraving machines, and jig borers to make working models of metal or plastic objects. Includes template makers.
Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic
Medium46.07%
Lay out, machine, fit, and assemble castings and parts to metal or plastic foundry patterns, core boxes, or match plates.
Tool and Die Makers
Medium42.07%
Analyze specifications, lay out metal stock, set up and operate machine tools, and fit and assemble parts to make and repair dies, cutting tools, jigs, fixtures, gauges, and machinists' hand tools.
Layout Workers, Metal and Plastic
Medium33.53%
Lay out reference points and dimensions on metal or plastic stock or workpieces, such as sheets, plates, tubes, structural shapes, castings, or machine parts, for further processing. Includes shipfitters.
Print Binding and Finishing Workers
Low26.68%
Bind books and other publications or finish printed products by hand or machine. May set up binding and finishing machines.
Sewing Machine Operators
Medium33.40%
Operate or tend sewing machines to join, reinforce, decorate, or perform related sewing operations in the manufacture of garment or nongarment products.
Shoe and Leather Workers and Repairers
Low22.86%
Construct, decorate, or repair leather and leather-like products, such as luggage, shoes, and saddles. May use hand tools.
Shoe Machine Operators and Tenders
Medium41.68%
Operate or tend a variety of machines to join, decorate, reinforce, or finish shoes and shoe parts.
Sewers, Hand
Low11.23%
Sew, join, reinforce, or finish, usually with needle and thread, a variety of manufactured items. Includes weavers and stitchers.
Tailors, Dressmakers, and Custom Sewers
Low22.39%
Design, make, alter, repair, or fit garments.
Textile Cutting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Medium50.87%
Set up, operate, or tend machines that cut textiles.
Model Makers, Wood
Medium42.20%
Construct full-size and scale wooden precision models of products. Includes wood jig builders and loft workers.
Patternmakers, Wood
Medium48.09%
Plan, lay out, and construct wooden unit or sectional patterns used in forming sand molds for castings.
Cutters and Trimmers, Hand
Medium56.41%
Use hand tools or hand-held power tools to cut and trim a variety of manufactured items, such as carpet, fabric, stone, glass, or rubber.
Painting, Coating, and Decorating Workers
Medium35.73%
Paint, coat, or decorate articles, such as furniture, glass, plateware, pottery, jewelry, toys, books, or leather.
Etchers and Engravers
Medium44.61%
Engrave or etch metal, wood, rubber, or other materials. Includes such workers as etcher-circuit processors, pantograph engravers, and silk screen etchers.
Molders, Shapers, and Casters, Except Metal and Plastic
Medium44.30%
Mold, shape, form, cast, or carve products such as food products, figurines, tile, pipes, and candles consisting of clay, glass, plaster, concrete, stone, or combinations of materials.
Stone Cutters and Carvers, Manufacturing
Low13.87%
Cut or carve stone according to diagrams and patterns.
Craft Artists
Medium47.40%
Create or reproduce handmade objects for sale and exhibition using a variety of techniques, such as welding, weaving, pottery, and needlecraft.
Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators
Medium39.27%
Create original artwork using any of a wide variety of media and techniques.
Floral Designers
Medium44.24%
Design, cut, and arrange live, dried, or artificial flowers and foliage.
Graphic Designers
Medium56.74%
Design or create graphics to meet specific commercial or promotional needs, such as packaging, displays, or logos. May use a variety of mediums to achieve artistic or decorative effects.
Set and Exhibit Designers
Medium47.21%
Design special exhibits and sets for film, video, television, and theater productions. May study scripts, confer with directors, and conduct research to determine appropriate architectural styles.
Costume Attendants
Medium44.55%
Select, fit, and take care of costumes for cast members, and aid entertainers. May assist with multiple costume changes during performances.

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