Apprenticeship training course
Fashion and textiles pattern cutter (level 3)
Producing a variety of products from clothing and fashion items to leather goods, soft furnishings, marine and medical textiles.
- Qualification level
-
3
Equivalent to A level. - Typical duration
- 22 months
- Apprenticeship category
- Engineering and manufacturing
- Maximum funding
-
£9,000
Maximum amount government will fund
for apprenticeship training. - Skills
-
Skills an apprentice will learn
- Read, interpret and assess design briefs, specifications and instructions
- Identify clothing or sewn product design features
- Identify possible constraints e.g. design issues, materials, manufacturing capacity
- Draft block patterns to style/size/measurements required
- Take and record accurate measurements if required
- Include all relevant technical information e.g. balance marks, notches, seam allowance, grain lines and size and component name and cutting instructions
- Where available use relevant IT systems e.g. CAD, Graphics software, digitisers, scanners, virtual modelling
- Adapt standard block pattern to reflect given designs
- Ensure patterns are compatible with the production process
- Include all relevant technical information e.g. balance marks, notches, grain lines, size
- Work with the sample machinists and oversee sample production
- Review the sample product and evaluate the prototype pattern, assessing the size, fit, shape, fall, style and design
- Trouble shoot and resolve pattern and design issues as required
- Identify and agree the required pattern rectifications
- Make agreed adjustment to the pattern e.g. add width or length, redefine style lines
- Create the final master pattern, include clear relevant information e.g. component information, size, grain line, cutting instructions
- Where available use relevant IT systems e.g. CAD, graphics software, digitisers, scanners, virtual modelling
- Provide production staff or supplier with final master pattern and production information
- Provide support and advise relating to any relevant production issues e.g. assembly watch points, component issues, fabric defects
- Complete and maintain accurate working documents throughout the pattern production process
- Develop and maintain effective communication with sewing production staff to ensure a productive work environment
- Accurately complete work documentation e.g. tech packs, specifications or electronic systems and understand the consequences of incorrectly completed records
Full information on Fashion and textiles pattern cutter (level 3) is available from the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education.