How to become a pattern cutter
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- specialist and short courses
University
You could do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in fashion or garment technology.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
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College
You could do a college course, for example:
- Level 2 Award in Fashion - Pattern Cutting
- Level 2 Diploma in Fashion
- Level 3 Certificate in Fashion and Textiles
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
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Apprenticeship
You can do a material cutter intermediate apprenticeship, or fashion and textiles pattern cutter advanced apprenticeship.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
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Work
You could start as a pattern cutting assistant or sample machinist with a clothing manufacturer or fashion design company and work your way up.
Other Routes
You can do short courses in pattern cutting through university fashion departments, colleges and adult education centres.
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Career tips
To get onto courses and find jobs, you'll need a portfolio of your work to show off your skills and creative ideas.
Professional and industry bodies
You may find it useful to join The Textile Institute for professional recognition, training opportunities and to make industry contacts.
Further information
You can get more information on working in creative industries from Discover Creative Careers.