- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to work well with others
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- sensitivity and understanding
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- customer service skills
- the ability to work well with your hands
- excellent verbal communication skills
- physical skills like movement, coordination, dexterity and grace
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
Your day-to-day tasks may include:
- taking customers' measurements
- discussing styles and fabric
- working out how much the clothing will cost and how long it will take to make
- creating a design by hand or using computer software
- creating a new pattern or adapting an existing one
- making a mock-up garment using cheaper fabrics
- fitting the mock-up to the customer and making alterations
- cutting out fabric pieces to make the garment
- fitting the garment to the customer and marking final adjustments
- stitching clothes by hand or machine
- carry out repairs and alterations to clothing
You could work in a workshop or in a factory.
With experience, you could become a senior tailor or supervisor, or you could set up your own business.
You can get more on a career in tailoring from The Bespoke Apprentice.
You can find out more about creative careers from Discover Creative Careers.
