- Salary statistics
- Pattern grinder, glass
Pattern grinder, glass
30 400 - 30 900 kr / month
Hantverksyrken
Salary progression Pattern grinder, glass
What does a glass pattern cutter do? – Tasks and work environment
A glass pattern cutter works on creating decorative patterns and precision cuts on glass objects, such as drinking glasses, decanters, and art glass. The tasks often involve using specialized tools and grinding machines to shape and process the glass surface according to drawings or customer requests. The profession requires high accuracy, attention to detail, and an artistic eye. Work is usually carried out in a workshop environment, involving both manual and machine operations. The environment can be noisy and dusty, and protective equipment is used to minimize health risks.
Salary development over time
The salary for glass pattern cutters has shown a slight downward trend over the past three years. In 2022 the average salary was 34,382 SEK/month, increasing marginally the following year to 34 662 SEK. Since then, the salary has decreased to 30 900 SEK per month in 2024, which corresponds to a reduction of about 11% from the previous year. This decline can be explained by several factors, including decreased demand in certain craft sectors and increased competition from automated manufacturing processes. The economic situation and the number of available projects also influence wage levels for the profession. Despite fluctuations, the profession remains specialized, meaning demand for skilled pattern cutters can be relatively stable in niche segments.
Pattern cutter salary – full overview
- Average salary: 30 900 SEK/month
- Lowest/highest salary: Data missing
- Hourly wage: 186 SEK/hour (based on 166 hours/month)
- Gender differences: Salary data for men and women unavailable
- Regional differences: No specific data available
Education and qualifications
To work as a glass pattern cutter, a craft education focusing on glass, often at high school or vocational college, is typically required. Practical experience is highly valued, and many learn the trade through apprenticeships or internships at established glassworks. Basic knowledge of materials and drawing interpretation is important, along with a good sense of shape and aesthetics.
- High school: Craft program, glass specialization (3 years)
- Vocational college: Specialized training in glass and craft (1–2 years)
- Internship/apprenticeship: Very common and often decisive for employment
- Prerequisites: Basic eligibility and interest in crafts
- Courses/certifications: Additional courses in pattern grinding and machine use
Glass pattern cutters often work closely with glass artists and designers, making the profession an important link between artistic vision and technical craftsmanship. The opportunity to influence the final result and see your patterns on exclusive glass products is a unique aspect of the role.
Common benefits and compensations
Glass pattern cutters often have access to collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, insurance, and wellness contributions. In some cases, work clothing, subsidized lunches, and opportunities for skills development through courses and workshops are offered. Working hours are typically during the day, but shift work occurs at larger glassworks.
Competition and challenges
The competition within the profession of glass pattern cutters is relatively high, especially since the number of training places and employers is limited. Automation in the glass industry has also led to some tasks being performed by machines, reducing the need for manual cutters. At the same time, demand for skilled craftsmen remains stable in segments for art glass and exclusive products, where quality and personal expression are crucial. For newcomers, entry can be challenging without the right network or practical experience. Flexibility and willingness to further educate oneself in new techniques are important factors for long-term success.
Tips for aspiring glass pattern cutters
To succeed as a glass pattern cutter, it is good to be precise and patient, as the work demands accuracy and repetitive tasks. An artistic sense helps in designing and adapting patterns to customer wishes. Being attentive and cooperative is important since many projects are carried out in teams with other professionals in the glass industry. Actively seek internships or apprenticeship opportunities to gain insight into the profession and build a network. Being open to learning new techniques, such as digital pattern creation, can provide a competitive advantage. Engagement and interest in the material's possibilities and limitations are also central qualities. Finally, being flexible and adaptable to varying tasks and projects is beneficial.
Key facts about glass pattern cutters
- Education level: High school or vocational education with a craft focus
- Work environment: Workshop, often noisy and dusty
- Work form: Full-time, but project-based and hourly positions also exist
- Demand: 341 job openings in the profession according to latest data
- Special skills: Advanced grinding techniques and pattern design
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as a glass pattern cutter, there are opportunities to develop into more advanced roles, such as supervisor, product developer, or pattern design specialist. Some choose to start their own business in art glass or become freelance craftsmen. The forecast from the Employment Service indicates that demand for skilled artisans in craft and glass remains stable, especially in niche areas and exclusive glassworks. Digitalization and new techniques may open further career paths, such as within design and CAD-based pattern creation. There are also opportunities to work internationally for those wishing to develop their skills or work on unique projects abroad.
Frequently asked questions about glass pattern cutters
- What does a glass pattern cutter earn?
- The average salary is 30 900 SEK/month, but it varies with experience and workplace. - What education is required?
- A craft high school or vocational college focusing on glass is most common. - What is the work environment like?
- Mainly in a workshop, often noisy and dusty. - Are there good future prospects?
- The demand is relatively stable, especially within art glass and exclusive products, with 341 job openings. - What personal qualities are important?
- Precision, patience, artistic ability, and teamwork skills. - How competitive is the job market?
- Competition is significant due to limited training spots and specialized work. - Are there opportunities for further education?
- Yes, additional courses and specialization in new techniques or design are common.
Salary distributed by age and sector
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 30400 kr | 30900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 30400 kr | 30900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 30400 kr | 30900 kr |
About the data
All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.
All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.
Profession Pattern grinder, glass has the SSYK code 7319, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.
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