More information from O*NET OnLine:

Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers - 51-6092.00

O*NET-SOC Description

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

Sample of Reported Job Titles

Cutter
Designer
Fabric Cutter
Pattern Designer
Pattern Maker

Pattern Technician
Production Pattern Maker
Sewing Pattern Layout Technician
Technical Designer

SOC Occupation Groups

51-0000	Production Occupations
51-6000	Textile, Apparel, and Furnishings Workers
51-6090	Miscellaneous Textile, Apparel, and Furnishings Workers
51-6092.00	Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers

Related Occupations

27-1022.00	Fashion Designers
51-4062.00	Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic
51-4192.00	Layout Workers, Metal and Plastic
51-6031.00	Sewing Machine Operators
51-6051.00	Sewers, Hand
51-6052.00	Tailors, Dressmakers, and Custom Sewers
51-7032.00	Patternmakers, Wood
51-9031.00	Cutters and Trimmers, Hand
51-9194.00	Etchers and Engravers
51-9195.00	Molders, Shapers, and Casters, Except Metal and Plastic

Tasks

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

Detailed Work Activities

Adjust fabrics or other materials during garment production.
Assemble garments or textile products.
Calculate dimensions of workpieces, products, or equipment.
Confer with customers or designers to determine order specifications.
Construct patterns, templates, or other work aids.
Cut fabrics.
Design templates or patterns.
Draw guide lines or markings on materials or workpieces using patterns or other references.
Inspected printed materials or other images to verify quality.
Mark products, workpieces, or equipment with identifying information.
Position patterns on equipment, materials, or workpieces.
Program equipment to perform production tasks.