Homemaker

What does a seamstress do? – Tasks and work environment

A seamstress works with sewing, repairing, and customizing clothing, home textiles, and sometimes custom orders for individuals or companies. Tasks range from sewing new garments based on measurements to making alterations, repairs, and adjustments on existing clothing. The role also includes selecting materials, pattern construction, fitting, and sometimes advising on textile care. The work environment is often characterized by working at home or in a small atelier, which offers great flexibility but also requires self-discipline and good planning skills. Many seamstresses work as self-employed entrepreneurs and are responsible for customer contact, marketing, and finances in addition to the craft work.

Salary development over time

Salaries for seamstresses have been relatively stable in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 28,800 kronor per month. The following year, 2023, the salary increased slightly to 31 000 kronor, which corresponds to an increase of about 4.2 %. In 2024, the average salary has decreased slightly to 30 900 kronor, representing a modest decline of 0.3 % compared to the previous year. The trend indicates that the profession has experienced some salary growth over time, but the market now appears to have stabilized. Causes for this development may include an increased supply of seamstresses, changing demand, and the fact that the profession is often practiced within small businesses where wages are generally more restrained. There are also indications that competition within tailoring and sewing professions has affected opportunities for higher wages.

Seamstress salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 30 900 kr/month
• Lowest/Highest salary: Data unavailable
• Hourly wage: 186 kr
• Gender differences: Women 30 800 kr, data for men is missing
• Regional differences: Specific data is unavailable

Education and qualifications

To work as a seamstress, a basic education in sewing or textiles is usually required, either through vocational programs in textiles or sewing at upper secondary school, adult education, or equivalent experience. Many supplement their education with shorter courses, certifications, or apprenticeships to deepen their knowledge of pattern construction, material science, and advanced sewing techniques. Practical experience is highly valuable and can be gained through internships, personal production, or work in an atelier. Self-study and online courses have also become increasingly common to stay updated on new techniques and trends.

• Upper secondary education: Vocational program in textiles or sewing (3 years)
• Adult education: Vocational training in sewing/textiles
• Courses and certifications: Specializations in pattern construction and material science
• Internships: Apprenticeships or practice in an atelier
• Self-study: Online courses and workshops

Common benefits and compensations

The most common benefits for seamstresses include flexible working hours and the possibility to work from home or in a private atelier. Other benefits include discounts on textiles and sewing supplies, as well as access to industry-specific networks and training. For employed seamstresses, insurances, holiday pay, and occupational pension schemes may also be available.

Competition and challenges

The competition within the profession of seamstress is significant, as the market is characterized by an oversupply of labor according to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast. This means that there are more trained and experienced individuals than the demand for services requires. Challenges also include price pressure from large-scale textile producers and changing consumption patterns where ready-made garments are often prioritized. Building a stable customer base and differentiating through quality or specialization can be crucial for success. Additionally, high demands are placed on both technical skill and business acumen, especially for those running their own business.

Tips for those who want to become a seamstress

To succeed as a seamstress, it is important to be meticulous and attentive to detail, as every stitch and material choice affects the final result. A creative mindset helps to solve clients’ unique wishes and create personalized solutions. Being communicative and service-oriented facilitates customer relations and can build long-term relationships. Flexibility and time management are key qualities, especially if working as a self-employed person or on commission. Staying updated on new materials and techniques through courses or networks is also a success factor. Initiative and patience are necessary to handle periods of uneven workload. Finally, resilience and a desire for continuous development within the craft are valuable.

Key facts about seamstresses

• Education level: Upper secondary vocational education or textile training
• Work environment: Home-based or small atelier
• Work form: Self-employed or short-term employment
• Demand: Limited job opportunities, oversupply of applicants
• Special skills: Pattern construction, material science, customer contact

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a seamstress can advance to become a specialist in areas such as wedding dresses, theater costumes, or exclusive interior textiles. Some go on to start their own atelier, teach sewing, or take on consultancy roles within the textile industry. According to the latest forecast from the Swedish Public Employment Service, job opportunities are limited and competition for available positions is high, with an estimated oversupply of seamstresses in the labor market. Demand is expected to remain unchanged over five years, meaning that career development largely depends on the individual’s ability to niche or create new services. Recently, there have been 341 available jobs in the entire profession, but these also include similar roles.

Frequently asked questions about seamstresses

• What is the average salary of a seamstress?
  - A seamstress has an average salary of 30 900 kronor per month.
• How does the salary development look for seamstresses?
  - The salary increased from 28,800 kronor in 2022 to 31 000 kronor in 2023, but has slightly decreased to 30 900 kronor in 2024.
• What education is required to become a seamstress?
  - Typically, a vocational program in textiles or sewing at upper secondary level, adult education, or equivalent experience.
• Are there many job openings for seamstresses?
  - There are 341 available jobs, but competition is high and demand is low.
• What personal qualities are important for a seamstress?
  - Precision, creativity, service-mindedness, and independence are highly valued qualities.
• What is the gender distribution among seamstresses?
  - Women have an average salary of 30 800 kronor, but data for men is missing.
• Is being a seamstress a future-proof profession?
  - The prognosis shows that demand remains unchanged and job opportunities are limited, so competition remains high.