Hands-onOperate industrial sewing machines and specialized stitching equipment to construct, alter, and repair custom garments following design specifications.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate garment fit, fabric quality, and construction integrity through hands-on inspection and client fittings to ensure quality standards.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess garment construction requirements and material needs by analyzing client specifications, body measurements, and fabric characteristics.
Proficient
KnowledgeConclude optimal construction methods and alteration strategies based on garment style, fabric type, and client requirements under time constraints.
Proficient
MindsetBalance client aesthetic preferences with technical garment construction constraints when negotiating design modifications and managing customer expectations.
Proficient
KnowledgeDevelop custom garment patterns and production schedules by synthesizing design specifications, body measurements, and workflow priorities independently.
Proficient
MindsetEngage with clients to understand custom garment preferences and body measurements through active listening and consultation in direct service interactions.
Developing
KnowledgeApply garment design principles and production techniques when creating custom patterns and selecting appropriate fabrics for client specifications.
Developing
Hands-onExecute precision alterations using hand-sewing and specialized pressing equipment to achieve professional finishing on garments independently.
Developing
Hands-onManipulate fabric cutting tools and pattern-making instruments using measuring tapes, dressmakers shears, and rotary cutters to prepare garment components.
Developing
Hands-onPerform routine maintenance and troubleshooting of sewing equipment including machine threading, tension adjustment, and basic repairs to minimize production delays.
Developing
KnowledgeEstimate fabric quantities, production time, and project costs using measurement calculations and production knowledge for client quotations.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Tailors, Dressmakers, and Custom Sewers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
16,290
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $27,110. 25th percentile: U.S. $33,480. 50th percentile: U.S. $40,860. 75th percentile: U.S. $49,780. 90th percentile: U.S. $62,490. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$27,110
10% of workers earn the following or more
$62,490
Workers on average earn
$44,050
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Customer and Personal Service4.0/5
English Language3.6/5
Production and Processing3.3/5
Administration and Management3.2/5
Economics and Accounting3.2/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
