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dressmaker
Dressmakers make made-to-measure clothes such as dresses, skirts, trousers and blouses for their customers. Some specialise in particular types of clothing, such as bridal wear or children's clothes. Heavier items such as suits and coats are generally made by tailors (see Tailor profile for more information).
The work of a dressmaker typically involves:
- discussing the client's requirements
- showing the client fabric samples and pattern books and advising on which may produce the best results
- taking measurements
- adapting an existing pattern or producing a new pattern especially for the client
- working out the cost of the work, based on the fabric and trimmings needed and the amount of time the work is likely to take
- using the pattern to cut the fabric pieces
- tacking the fabric pieces together for a fitting
- fitting the garment and making adjustments to ensure a perfect fit.
Dressmakers sometimes make a sample (called a 'toile') using cheaper fabric to check the design before cutting an expensive fabric. They will use a machine for most of the sewing, but finish intricate work, such as beading or embroidery, by hand.
Some dressmakers also offer an alteration and repair service. Many are self-employed and complete their own accounts and other paperwork.
Hours and Environment
Dressmakers work 37 to 40 hours a week, including Saturdays. Self-employed dressmakers choose their own hours, depending on the amount of work they have and the deadlines they need to meet.
Dressmakers work either in a workshop or from home. They may spend some time visiting clients.
Skills and Interests
To be a dressmaker you should:
- be interested in textiles and fashion
- have excellent practical skills
- be able to visualise designs and lay out pattern pieces
- have an appreciation for detail
- be able to deal tactfully with customers
- be able to take accurate measurements and make calculations
- have good eyesight, and normal colour vision for matching threads and fabrics.
Entry
You can do a variety of college courses which cover the general skills you will need for this type of work, including:
- City & Guilds Level 1 Certificate in Design and Craft (7722) – provides an introduction to a range of options including textiles
- City & Guilds Level 2 Certificate in Design & Craft (7822) – builds on the skills developed on the Level 1 course
- City & Guilds Level 3 Certificate (7922) – develops skills to the level of professional craftsperson and includes a design unit and a craft unit
- ABC awards, including Sewing and Textiles at levels 1 and 2, Pattern Cutting at levels 1 and 2 and 'Sample Production Techniques: Clothing'.
You can also do short courses in a range of techniques relevant to dressmaking. These are available at many colleges, adult education centres and private providers. They may not lead to a qualification, but they will teach you some of the skills required for this career.
To search for colleges and universities offering foundation degrees, HNDs and degrees see Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS).
You may be able to get into this job through an apprenticeship scheme, although the number of companies offering apprenticeships in this job role is limited. To find out more, visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk. For information about apprenticeships in other parts of the UK, see Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
For more details about this career, see the Just the Job website in Further Information.
Training
If you are already working as a dressmaker you can work towards the following NVQ/SVQ qualifications:
- Manufacturing Sewn Products (4146) at levels 1 and 2
- Apparel Manufacturing Technology (4133) at Level 3.
At a higher level, you can do courses such as Edexcel (BTEC) Higher National Certificate/Diploma in Fashion and Textiles, and foundation degrees or degrees in fashion or textiles. These are particularly relevant if you want to develop a career in designing and making garments.
Opportunities
Dressmakers typically work for small dressmaking or tailoring companies and many are self-employed.
You may also find opportunities with clothing manufacturers, larger high street fashion chains and specialist fashion houses. Openings may exist in costume production for theatre, TV and film, but these are not so widely available.
Opportunities to progress are limited unless you work for a larger company. Promotion options may include supervisory roles or movement into related areas such as fashion or textile buying.
Annual Income
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
Starting salaries are between £10,000 and £12,500 a year.
With experience this may rise to between £13,000 and £17,500.
Dressmakers working in specialist areas may earn up to £20,000 a year.
Self-employed dressmakers set their own rates.
Further information
Back To Arts Crafts and Design Careers
Further Help and Advice
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Site Disclaimer
The information contained in our Career Profiles Database was correct at time of publishing, but since publication certain details may have changed so please use this section as a research tool and in some cases further research may be required.
Careers Database Information By Learn Direct Advice