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Costume Sewing Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Fit and alter costumes as needed and demonstrate basic sewing ability. * Construct, repair and launder costume and prop pieces to support daily show operation. * Help organize wardrobe storage spaces.

Lead Theatre Technician

Cleveland, OH

$42K - $55K/yr

Sewing and otherwise constructing costumes and accessories * Altering andrepairing costume pieces * Laundering, pressing and assembling costumes * Working backstage during performance, assisting with ...

Sewing and otherwise constructing costumes and accessories * Altering andrepairing costume pieces * Laundering, pressing and assembling costumes * Working backstage during performance, assisting with ...

Costume Sewing information

What is costume sewing?

Costume sewing involves creating, altering, and repairing garments specifically designed for theater, film, television, or events such as cosplay and parties. Costume sewers work with patterns, fabrics, and embellishments to bring character designs to life, often requiring both technical sewing skills and creativity. They may collaborate with costume designers and other team members to ensure that costumes fit performers comfortably and achieve the desired visual effect. This job can involve working with a wide range of materials, from delicate silks to sturdy leathers, and may also require knowledge of historical garment construction.

What are costume sewing jobs?

There are several jobs in a variety of industries that involve custom sewing. As a tailor, costume designer, or wardrobe assistant, you work in a theater or as part of the crew on a film or tv show. Your duties and responsibilities include costume design and sewing, and you are in charge of fittings, during which you alter or repair costumes so that they are appropriate for your actors. You work with actors, directors, writers, and producers to understand your characters, and you do research to inform your designs. In some roles, you also repair and maintain masks, wigs, and other accessories, so you need to be knowledgeable about different textiles and materials that are used on stage and on the screen.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a costume sewing professional, and why are they important?

To thrive in Costume Sewing, you need strong garment construction skills, attention to detail, and a background in textiles or fashion design, often gained through formal training or apprenticeships. Familiarity with industrial sewing machines, sergers, pattern-making software, and hand-finishing tools is typically required. Creativity, time management, and effective communication with designers and production teams are important soft skills. These abilities ensure high-quality, visually accurate costumes are produced efficiently and collaboratively for theater, film, or events.

What are some common challenges faced by costume sewing professionals when working on large productions?

Costume sewing professionals working on large productions often encounter tight deadlines, frequent last-minute alterations, and the need to collaborate closely with designers, performers, and other costume staff. Managing a high volume of costumes while maintaining consistent quality and adherence to design specifications can be demanding. Flexibility, strong communication skills, and the ability to adapt to changing requirements are essential for success in this dynamic environment.

What is the difference between Costume Sewing vs Dressmaker?

AspectCostume SewingDressmaker
CredentialsOften requires sewing skills, costume design knowledgeRequires sewing skills, fashion design or tailoring experience
Work EnvironmentTheatrical, film, TV productions, themed eventsFashion boutiques, custom clothing shops, personal clients
Industry UsageEntertainment, theater, film, cosplayFashion, personal styling, custom clothing

Costume sewing and dressmaking both involve sewing skills, but costume sewing focuses on creating outfits for entertainment and themed events, often requiring knowledge of theatrical design. Dressmakers primarily craft custom clothing for individual clients, emphasizing fashion and fit. While overlapping in skills, their work environments and industry applications differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Costume Sewing jobs in Ohio?

For Costume Sewing jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Costume Sewing jobs in Ohio look for?

The top searched job categories for Costume Sewing jobs in Ohio are:

Infographic showing various Costume Sewing job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 13% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, and 15% Remote job distribution.

Costume Shop Assistant, Part-Time

Denison University

Granville, OH • On-site

Part-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Position Overview:

The Costume Shop Assistant will work to oversee the student staff members and workflow of the costume shop in the absence of the Costume Shop Supervisor. They will assist in fittings, measurements, pulling from costume stock, and training student staff members in sewing projects. Outside of assisting students, they will perform machine and hand sewing, costume construction, patterning, and alterations for theatrical and dance costumes as instructed by designer or from verbal, fitting notes, or pinned garments.

Department/Division Overview: The Michael D. Eisner Center costume shop supports on average two theatre productions, one dance production, and one musical each semester. We work with faculty, guest designers, staff, and students in a cooperative manner to execute designers' visions.


Responsibilities:

Assist the Costume Shop Supervisor in creating and executing costumes in the vision of the Costume Designer for the Dance, Theatre, and Music Theatre productions at Denison University. Work independently and with costume shop student staff to construct and alter costumes efficiently.
Minimum Requirements:

  • Ability to work, while maintaining a positive attitude, with changes as student staff rotates throughout the day, and frequent distractions and interruptions.

  • Demonstrated high level sewing skills, demonstrated by the submission of photos of 3 pieces constructed or altered.

  • Experience operating and maintaining sewing equipment and tools including but not limited to sewing machines, sergers, professional pressing equipment, and measuring and cutting tools

  • Ability to perform physical tasks associated with this occupation throughout the facility including bending, reaching, climbing ladders, stairs, and moving/lifting to fifty pounds.


Preferred Requirements:

  • Demonstrated ability to teach or train others, and a commitment to maintaining an open, inclusive, and educational environment.

  • Experience in costume construction and/or alterations and experience in the safe and efficient operations of a costume shop.

  • Bachelor's degree in Theatre, Costume Design/Technology, Fashion Design, or equivalent professional experience.

  • Experience with Draping and Patterning.

Why Choose Denison?

Denison University is a leading, fully residential liberal arts college in Granville, Ohio, located just outside the Columbus metro area. Established in 1831, Denison blends a rigorous academic foundation with an award-winning approach to student mentorship and career readiness. With a vibrant campus community of 2,400 students and around 2,000 employees, Denison offers employees a supportive, forward-thinking environment dedicated to educational excellence and professional growth.

Denison provides a number of staff-focused benefits, with some highlights:

  • Comprehensive healthcare plan

  • 403(b) retirement savings with 10% contribution from Denison for eligible positions

  • Starting at 10 vacation days

  • 9 paid holidays

  • Campus closure from Christmas to New Years

  • Free parking and gym membership

  • Free classes for employees


Want to learn more about us? Visit Denison.edu for more information.