What Is a Stitcher and How to Become One

By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team

A stitcher works in the performing arts industry. As a stitcher, you take the costume pieces prepared by the cutter and assemble and sew them together into full costumes. Stitchers know how to sew by hand and with a machine. Hand sewing is a vital skill because period costumes require a handmade look that sewing machines cannot replicate. Stitchers also need to accommodate the specific wardrobe needs of the actors who wear the attire; they must know how to add hidden snaps, buttons, or zippers. Outside of film and theater, a stitcher may also work on upholstery.

The primary qualifications for getting a job as a stitcher are extensive experience with manual and machine sewing techniques and familiarity with garment construction techniques. This is a skill-based position, and you may be able to get a job with minimal professional experience and education if you can demonstrate various stitching techniques to an employer. Formal training in sewing can help but is not necessary for this job. Some stitchers volunteer for church or community plays to gain experience before applying for a full-time role. Fulfilling the responsibilities of a stitcher requires excellent eyesight, hand-eye coordination, communication skills, and the ability to work overtime as needed to complete costumes for a performance.