Tailor
Create custom-made (bespoke) clothing for men and women.
About the job
What it's like
You would create custom-made (bespoke) clothing for men and women.
You may make the whole garment, or work in a team where each member has a specialism.
When making a new item of clothing for a client, you would:
Take measurements and agree a style and fabric
Work out how much it will cost and how long it will take to make
Create a design, either by hand or using computer software
Create a new pattern or adapt an existing one
Make a mock-up garment using cheap fabrics, fit it and make any changes
Cut out fabric pieces
Fit the garment again and make any final adjustments
Stitch the garment together, often using hand stitching
Clients could also come to you for changes and repairs to clothing bought elsewhere.
Hours
You would usually work around 40 hours a week, though this can be more when there are deadlines. You may need to work occasional evenings and weekends to carry out customer fittings.
Environment
You would be based in a sewing room, which may be attached to a shop or small factory. You may spend a lot of time doing close-up work.
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Creative
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- taking initiative
- implementing ideas
- attention to detail
- respecting
- empathising
- observation
- creative
- verbal communication
- supporting
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Art and Design (Design)
Design and Manufacture
Fashion and Textile Technology (Home economics)
Practical Craft Skills
Skills for Work: Creative Industries
Skills for Work: Textiles Industry
There are no formal qualifications required to enter this role but some employers may ask for qualifications at SCQF level 4/5.
It may be helpful to gain a fashion and textile National Certificate, National Qualification or BTEC Diploma (SCQF level 5/6).
To enter a relevant National Certificate, National Qualification or BTEC Diploma (SCQF level 5/6) you will require a minimum of four subjects at National 4 or three subjects at National 5.
It may be helpful to have relevant work-based qualifications such as a Scottish Vocational Qualification in Manufacturing Textile Products (SVQ level 1/2/3) or be willing to work towards qualifications once in a job.
A keen interest in making clothes
To have some sewing skills
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