Supporting the production of a variety of textiles products, from clothing to leather goods, soft furnishings and medical textiles.
Overview
Approved for delivery on the 05/10/2018, the fashion and textiles pattern cutter, Advanced apprenticeship standard provides a level 3, upon completion. This apprenticeship will typically take 22 months to complete, not including the End-Point Assessment Period.
What the course covers
The role of a pattern cutter involves interpreting a product design brief to create patterns reflecting the design and technical specifications. A pattern cutter will work closely alongside a Sample Machinist to produce a sample of the design using the prototype pattern. The sample will be reviewed by the production team, and subsequently the pattern cutter may make any necessary alterations to the design.
You will use various pattern cutting methods including, ‘modelling’ which involves draping and pinning fabric over a mannequin and hand-cutting the fabric to form the pattern; adjusting and shaping a standard pattern ‘block’ and; modifying a non-standard pattern base taken from the company library. If you are working for a larger business or on a larger-scale operation, you may also use computerised pattern production software.
The roles of a pattern cutter are diverse, including:
- Drafting prototype patterns that meet specifications and reflect given designs
- Working with the sample machinist to produce a sample design
- Reviewing the product samples with the production team
- Adjusting prototype patterns to meet specifications
- Creating the final master pattern ready for production
Careers and jobs associated
- Textiles machinist
- Sample machinist
If you would like to find out more about this apprenticeship standard, including possible duties of the role, skills and assessment method visit the Institute for Apprenticeships.
