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Apparel Pattern Maker Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Emerging Blue Jobs

Patternmaker

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$75/hr

Create women's apparel production patterns using Lectra software for: underwear, dresses, tops and pants. Bra experience is a must. * Interpret sketches from designer by both draping and computer ...

Career Group

Patternmaker - Intimates

Chatsworth, CA · On-site

$32 - $38/hr

Create women's apparel production patterns using Lectra software for: underwear, dresses, tops and pants. Bra experience is a plus.. * Interpret sketches from designer by both draping and computer ...

Fashion Nova

Designer - Men's

Beverly Hills, CA · On-site

... apparel product lines (e.g., streetwear, denim, basics, accessories, tailoring, etc.). * Hand ... Partnering with pattern-maker, as needed, on prototypes. * Managing your time within the brand ...

Fashion Nova

Designer - Men's

Beverly Hills, CA · On-site

... apparel product lines (e.g., streetwear, denim, basics, accessories, tailoring, etc.). * Hand ... Partnering with pattern-maker, as needed, on prototypes. * Managing your time within the brand ...

All JobsApparel Pattern Maker JobsApparel Pattern Maker Jobs in California

Apparel Pattern Maker information

See California salary details

$5

$16

$17

How much do apparel pattern maker jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for apparel pattern maker in California is $16.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $16.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Apparel Pattern Maker, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apparel Pattern Maker, you need strong skills in garment construction, pattern drafting, and a solid understanding of textiles, typically supported by a degree or certification in fashion design or pattern making. Proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD) software like Gerber or Lectra and experience with digitizing tables are highly valuable. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and clear communication help ensure designs are accurate and production-ready. These skills are crucial for creating precise patterns that maintain design integrity and enable efficient manufacturing.

What qualifications do you need to be a pattern maker?

A pattern maker in apparel typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent, along with technical training or a degree in fashion design, textiles, or pattern making. Proficiency in pattern drafting, sewing, and knowledge of pattern-making software like Gerber or Lectra are essential skills. Experience in garment construction and attention to detail are also important for success in this role.

What Does an Apparel Pattern Maker Do?

An apparel pattern maker works to create working designs for clothing samples and production based on the ideas, specs, drawings, and blueprints of a fashion designer. Your duties in this career involve working to adjust the original plan and measure the garment pattern so that the resulting clothing product has the proper fit. Your responsibilities as an apparel pattern maker usually involve using information from the designers to develop the blueprint into a production-ready design. Your pattern may have information about the grade or sizing and other details for production.

What are Apparel Pattern Makers?

Apparel Pattern Makers are professionals who create templates or patterns used to cut fabric for clothing production. They interpret designers' sketches and measurements to develop precise patterns that ensure garments fit correctly and meet design specifications. Pattern makers may work by hand or use computer-aided design (CAD) software to draft and modify patterns. Their work is crucial in the apparel manufacturing process, as accurate patterns are essential for both quality and efficiency. They often collaborate closely with fashion designers, sample makers, and production teams.

Is pattern making a good career?

Pattern making is a skilled profession within the apparel industry that involves creating templates for clothing construction. It offers opportunities for creativity, technical skill development, and employment in fashion design, manufacturing, or freelance work. Success often depends on proficiency with pattern drafting tools and industry knowledge.

How does an Apparel Pattern Maker typically collaborate with designers and production teams during the garment development process?

As an Apparel Pattern Maker, you will work closely with fashion designers to interpret sketches and translate creative ideas into precise, production-ready patterns. You'll also collaborate with technical designers and production teams to ensure that patterns meet fit, construction, and manufacturing requirements, often participating in fittings and making necessary adjustments. This collaborative environment requires strong communication skills and the ability to respond to feedback quickly, ensuring the final product aligns with both design intent and production capabilities.

How much do pattern cutters get paid?

Pattern cutters in the apparel industry typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the designs. Entry-level pattern makers may start at lower wages, while experienced professionals with advanced skills can earn higher salaries, especially in larger or high-end fashion companies.

What is the difference between Apparel Pattern Maker vs Fashion Designer?

AspectApparel Pattern MakerFashion Designer
Primary RoleCreates patterns and prototypes for garments based on design specificationsConceptualizes and designs new clothing collections and styles
Skills & CertificationsPattern drafting, sewing, CAD software, fashion design knowledgeDesign skills, fashion illustration, trend analysis, CAD proficiency
Work EnvironmentPattern labs, manufacturing facilities, design studiosDesign studios, fashion houses, freelance or corporate settings
Industry UsageUsed in apparel manufacturing and productionUsed in fashion design, branding, and collection development

While both roles are essential in apparel creation, the Apparel Pattern Maker focuses on translating designs into technical patterns for production, whereas the Fashion Designer develops the creative concepts and styles. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within the fashion industry.

How much money do pattern makers make?

Pattern makers in the apparel industry typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and skill level. Senior or specialized pattern makers with advanced skills can earn higher salaries, especially in larger companies or fashion hubs.
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Apparel Pattern Maker jobs near you

Patternmaker

Emerging Blue Jobs

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$75/hr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

We are searching for a Patternmaker with experience in womenswear and intimates for our client, a family owned apparel business. In this role, you will have an important part in their ever-growing business in supporting their product development team.

Role and Responsibilities
  • Create women's apparel production patterns using Lectra software for: underwear, dresses, tops and pants. Bra experience is a must.
  • Interpret sketches from designer by both draping and computer patternmaking methods.
  • Work with knits, rayon, wools, cottons, lace, and embroidery fabrics.
  • Creating sewing spec for factories to follow for bulk.
  • Creating garment specifications (measurement spec)
  • Create and update Tech Packs in excel for specs, grade rules and pattern CADs with construction callouts.
  • Inspect graded nests and check size range for standard sizing in categories such as intimate, kids and woman garments.
  • Knowledge of fit and make correction to 1st pattern through production.
  • Knowledge of sewing and construction methods for mass production.
Qualification & skills
  • Must have patternmaking experience in Bras
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in the garment industry
  • Must be knowledgeable in fitting and measuring garments
  • Detail oriented and highly organized and able to handle multiple responsibilities
  • Computer knowledgeable including Microsoft/Word/Excel, Lectra, Illustrator is a plus.
  • This is a Full-time, in office position in their corporate headquarters (no remote)

Salary Range $75-90K