Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers
O*NET 51-6092.00 · SOC 51-6092
Fabric and Apparel Patternmaker is a risky career choice. Median pay is $63k a year with -15% projected growth through 2035 (declining) and about 200 openings a year. AI exposure: Elevated.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Draft pattern pieces for garments using measurements
- →Trace pattern shapes onto paper or cardboard
- →Adjust patterns to achieve proper fit and proportion
- →Cut sample patterns and test on dress forms
- →Mark notches and grain lines on finished patterns
Education & How to Get In
Most Fabric and Apparel Patternmaker positions require an associate degree or vocational training. Many community colleges and technical schools offer relevant programs that can be completed in 1–2 years, often with hands-on clinical or lab experience built in.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Hands-on — labs, workshops, or field sites
Mixed — alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Fabric and Apparel Patternmaker involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Fabric and Apparel Patternmaker?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering — personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Fabric and Apparel Patternmaker Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers is projected to decline 15% from 2025 to 2035, declining for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·32% creative/strategic tasks — AI augments, doesn't replace
- ·35% physical tasks — limited by robotics progress
- ·Declining employment suggests structural disruption
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Fabric and Apparel Patternmaker make?
The median Fabric and Apparel Patternmaker earns $63k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Fabric and Apparel Patternmaker jobs?
Our model puts Fabric and Apparel Patternmaker at 46 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is elevated disruption risk. The main drivers: 32% creative/strategic tasks — AI augments, doesn't replace; 35% physical tasks — limited by robotics progress.
Is Fabric and Apparel Patternmaker a growing field?
Employment is projected to shrink 15% between 2025 and 2035, which is declining. That works out to roughly 200 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Fabric and Apparel Patternmaker?
Most Fabric and Apparel Patternmaker roles expect an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational certificate rather than a four-year degree.
How long does it take to become a Fabric and Apparel Patternmaker?
Typically one to two years, typically an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational program. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 3 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Fabric and Apparel Patternmaker career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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