Dressmaker
What is the work like?
Dressmakers make made-to-measure clothing such as dresses, skirts, trousers and blouses for their customers. They often run small independent businesses and specialise in a particular type of clothing like bridal wear.
As a dressmaker, your duties are likely to include:
- discussing the client's requirements
- showing the client fabric samples and pattern books
- giving advice on which combination of fabrics and patterns may give the best results
- taking measurements
- adapting an existing pattern, or producing a new pattern 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 out the fabric pieces
- tacking the fabric pieces together for a fitting
- fitting the garment and making adjustments to make sure it fits perfectly.
You would sometimes make a sample – called a 'toile' – out of cheaper fabric to check the design before cutting an expensive fabric. You would use a machine for most of the sewing, but finish intricate work, such as beading or embroidery, by hand.
You could also offer an alteration and repair service. Heavier items such as coats and suits are normally made by tailors (see the separate Tailor profile). You may be self-employed and complete your own accounts and other paperwork.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
You can do a variety of college courses which cover the general skills you will need for work as a dressmaker. These include:
- City & Guilds Certificates in Design and Craft at levels 1 to 3
- ABC awards, in Sewing and Textiles at levels 1 and 2, and Pattern Cutting at Level 3.
You can also do short courses in a range of techniques relevant to dressmaking at colleges, adult education centres and private providers. They may not lead to a qualification, but they will teach you some of the skills needed for this career.
You may be able to get into this job through an Apprenticeship scheme. The range of Apprenticeships available in your area will depend on the local jobs market and the types of skills employers need from their workers. For more information on Apprenticeships, visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk.
What further training and development can I do?
Once you are working as a dressmaker you can take qualifications such as:
- NVQ Level 2 in Manufacturing Sewn Products
- NVQ Level 3 in Apparel Manufacturing Technology.
At a higher level, you can study for a BTEC HNC/HND, foundation degree or degree in subjects such as fashion and textile design skills. These are particularly relevant if you want to develop a career in designing and making garments.
Where can I go for more information?
If you would like to discuss your career options with a learning adviser at Careers Advice, call 0800 100 900 or use our online enquiry form
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What salary and other benefits can I expect?
- Starting salaries for dressmakers are between £10,500 and £13,000 a year.
- With experience this may rise to around £17,000.
- Dressmakers working in specialist areas can earn around £20,000 a year.
Self-employed dressmakers set their own rates.
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
What are the hours and working conditions?
You would typically work between 37 and 40 hours a week, including Saturdays. As a self-employed dressmaker, you could choose your own hours, depending on the amount of work you have and the deadlines you need to meet.
You would normally be based in a workshop or from home. You may also spend some time visiting clients.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- an interest in textiles and fashion
- excellent practical skills
- the ability to visualise designs and lay out pattern pieces
- an appreciation for detail
- the ability to deal tactfully with customers
- the ability to take accurate measurements and make calculations
- good eyesight
- normal colour vision for matching threads and fabrics.
What opportunities are there?
You could find job opportunities with small dressmaking or tailoring companies, clothing manufacturers, larger high street fashion chains and specialist fashion houses. You may also find occasional vacancies in costume production for theatre, TV and film.
Opportunities to progress are limited unless you work for a design house or tailoring company. With experience you could be promoted to a supervisory role, move into a related career (such as fashion or textile buying) or become self-employed.
Jobs may be advertised in the local and national press, through job centres and also on industry websites, such as Drapers.
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