Apprentice Apparel Pattern Maker Jobs in California

Freelance Pattern Maker

Phoenix Fashion Inc. is seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Freelance Pattern Maker to develop first-through-production patterns for both knit and woven garments, with a primary focus on women's dresses and suiting. This position requires strong technical expertise, an excellent understanding of garment construction and fit, and the ability to accurately interpret design concepts from sketches, inspiration images, and verbal direction.

The ideal candidate has extensive experience in draping, pattern development, fit correction, and able to work/explain desired construction to sample sewers. You will play a key role in transforming design concepts into well-executed garments that reflect the designer's vision while maintaining proper fit, proportion, construction, and manufacturability.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Drape and draft patterns from sketches, technical packages, and inspiration images while maintaining the designer's creative intent.
• Develop first patterns, sample patterns, and production-ready patterns for knit and woven garments.
• Participate in fit sessions and implement pattern revisions based on fit comments, design updates, and construction requirements.
• Create made-to-measure and custom garments based on client specifications and design requirements.
• Prepare clear, accurate, and production-ready patterns with appropriate seam allowances, notches, drill marks, grading information, and construction details.
• Provide organized pattern cards, sewing instructions, and technical documentation to facilitate efficient sample and production sewing.
• Update and maintain tech packs, including garment specifications, trims and hardware details, material yields, construction methods, and fit notes.
• Digitize and maintain paper patterns within the company pattern library and ensure all revisions are accurately documented.
• Collaborate with designers, sample makers, and production staff to troubleshoot fit and construction challenges.
• Maintain an organized workspace and follow all company safety procedures.
• Support development of various product categories, including women's, men's, and children's apparel, accessories, and special projects as needed.

Qualifications

• Degree or certification in Fashion Design, Patternmaking, Apparel Production, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 4 years of professional patternmaking experience in contemporary, designer, or luxury apparel.
• Strong experience with dresses, jackets and pants, including both knit and woven fabrication.
• Advanced knowledge of draping, flat patternmaking, grading, garment construction, and fitting.
• Experience with structured woven garments, tailoring, eveningwear, or leather goods is a plus.
• Experience creating made-to-measure and custom-fit garments preferred.
• Comprehensive understanding of cut-and-sew fabrics, construction techniques, finishing methods, and manufacturing processes.
• Ability to identify and resolve fit, balance, and construction issues independently.
• Excellent organization, time management, and multitasking skills.
• Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Ability to accept feedback, adapt to changing priorities, and perform in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in pattern digitizing software is preferred.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and perform hands-on development work.

Compensation

$45 - $60 per hour, based on experience, qualifications, and demonstrated technical expertise.

Work Schedule

Part-Time / Freelance
Two days per week (flexible scheduling based on project needs)

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Phoenix Fashion Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, creed, age, sex, national origin, ancestry, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.

This policy applies to all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, compensation, promotion, training, transfers, leaves of absence, and termination.

https://phoenixfashioninc.com/