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Knitter

Alternative titles for this job include Machine knitter, industrial knitter

Knitters produce garments, soft furnishings and accessories by hand and on knitting machines.

Average salary (a year)

£14,000 Starter

to

£20,000 Experienced

Typical hours (a week)

50 to 52 a week

You could work

between 8am and 6pm

How to become a knitter

You can get into this job through:

  • a college course
  • an apprenticeship
  • applying directly

College

You may be able to start by doing a course like:

  • Level 1 Award in Fashion and Textiles
  • Level 2 Certificate In Fashion

You'll need to check that knitting is included in the course content. Some colleges and adult learning centres offer hand or machine knitting craft courses for learners who have a general interest or knit as a hobby.

Entry requirements

There are no set entry requirements for this route.

More information

Apprenticeship

You could do an intermediate or advanced apprenticeship in fashion and textiles to become a knitter.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, for an intermediate apprenticeship
  • 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), usually including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship

More information

Direct application

You could apply directly for jobs if you've got experience in creative crafts, sewing or textiles. Training is given on the job in many cases.

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail
  • persistence and determination
  • the ability to work on your own
  • patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
  • the ability to work well with others
  • the ability to work well with your hands
  • physical skills like movement, coordination, dexterity and grace
  • observation and recording skills
  • being able to use a computer terminal or hand-held device may be beneficial for this job.

What you'll do

Day-to-day tasks

Your day-to-day duties may include:

  • reading design patterns
  • creating knitting samples
  • producing ‘made-to-order’ products by hand or on domestic machines
  • using industrial knitters for production line work
  • finishing products by hand
  • checking quality

Working environment

You could work in a workshop, in a factory or from home.

Career path and progression

With experience you could become a production supervisor, move into quality control or set up your own small business.

You could also become a knitwear designer for a textiles company by completing a higher education qualification in fashion.

Training opportunities

Apprenticeships In England

Apprentice Tailor/Waistcoat Maker

  • Wage : £200.00 Weekly
  • Location: London WC1R 4RG

Apprentice Laboratory Technician (Textiles)

  • Wage : £144.00 Weekly
  • Location: Elland HX5 9DB
Find apprenticeships near you

Courses In England

Are you interested in becoming a knitter?

Search for training courses near you.

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