Cutters, leather goods

What does a leather goods cutter do? – Tasks and work environment

A leather goods cutter works with cutting patterns and shapes from leather material, which are later used for manufacturing shoes, bags, and other leather products. The tasks often include interpreting drawings, planning material usage, and using various cutting tools, both manual and machine-based. The work environment varies between small artisan workshops and larger industrial settings, but common to all is that the work requires accuracy, precision, and good material knowledge. Heavy lifting, repetitive movements, and working in environments with noise and dust may occur, demanding physical endurance and good occupational health awareness.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salaries for leather goods cutters have steadily increased. In 2022, the average salary was 27,700 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 29 600 SEK in 2023. The latest data from 2024 shows a further rise to 30 400 SEK, representing a total salary increase of approximately 9.7% over the period. This trend can be linked to increased demand for specialized craftsmanship, some skill shortages, and general cost increases within the industry. Despite the positive development, the salary level remains somewhat below the industry average, reflecting the traditional nature of the profession and competition from automation and cheaper overseas production.

Leather goods cutter salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 30 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 29,400 SEK/month (female, private sector employee, high school education 3 years)
• Highest salary: 32,200 SEK/month (male, regional sector, high school education up to 2 years)
• Hourly wage: 183 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Men 31 200 SEK, women 29 700 SEK (women earn 95% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Not available

Education and qualifications

To work as a leather goods cutter, a high school education with a focus on textiles, fashion, or crafts is usually required, sometimes supplemented with specialized courses in leather craftsmanship. Employers often value practical experience, as the profession relies on both technique and a feel for the material. It is also possible to learn the profession through apprenticeships or on-the-job training.

• High school education: Craftsmanship program with a focus on textiles/leather (3 years)
• Specialized courses: Courses in leather craftsmanship or cutting
• Internship: Internships or apprenticeships provide valuable experience
• Prerequisites: Precision, material knowledge, and good vision
• Further training opportunities: Via vocational colleges or workplace-based courses

Common benefits and compensations

Leather goods cutters often are covered by collective agreements, providing access to occupational pensions, sick pay, and holiday pay. In some cases, wellness allowances, work clothing, and opportunities for skills development are offered. Employers in the public or regional sectors may also offer extra vacation days and favorable insurance schemes.

Competition and challenges

The profession of leather goods cutters faces competition from automation and cheaper production in low-cost countries. At the same time, there is steady demand for skilled craftsmen within niche and quality-focused businesses, especially where custom orders and small series are involved. Challenges include keeping up with new materials and techniques, working ergonomically to avoid strain injuries, and the small size of many workplaces requiring flexibility and initiative in the entire manufacturing process. Despite a relatively small workforce, competition for certain positions can be high, especially in attractive segments.

Tips for aspiring leather goods cutters

To succeed as a leather goods cutter, attention to detail is crucial, as precision in cutting determines the final quality. Patience and endurance help with monotonous tasks and large series, while creativity and a sense of form facilitate work on custom orders. Flexibility and willingness to learn new techniques are also advantageous, given the ongoing development of materials and tools. Good teamwork skills are important, especially in smaller teams, and taking responsibility allows for initiative in production. Actively seeking internships or trainee positions provides valuable experience and increases chances of employment in the industry.

Key facts about leather goods cutters

• Average salary: 30 400 SEK/month
• Salary range: 29,400–32,200 SEK/month
• Gender difference: Women earn 95% of men's salary
• Education requirement: High school education, often with a crafts focus
• Job market: 1,437 available jobs in the profession

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years of experience, a leather goods cutter can advance to more specialized roles, such as team leader for a small group or technical supervisor of the cutting process. Some choose to start their own business offering custom leather products or work in product development within design companies. The forecasts from the Employment Service show no precise assessment due to limited data, but the profession is related to machine operators in the textile, leather, and fur industry, which recently had 1,437 available jobs. This indicates a relatively stable labor market, especially for those with specialized skills or experience in craftsmanship. Future prospects are affected by automation and global competition, but niche and qualified craftsmen have good opportunities going forward.

Frequently asked questions about leather goods cutters

• What does a leather goods cutter earn?
  - The average salary is 30 400 SEK per month, ranging from 29,400 to 32,200 SEK depending on experience, employer, and gender.
• What are the gender differences in salaries for leather goods cutters?
  - Men earn an average of 31 200 SEK, women 29 700 SEK, which means women earn 95% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a leather goods cutter?
  - High school education with a crafts focus, often supplemented with specialized courses or internships, is most common.
• Are there many jobs for leather goods cutters?
  - There are 1,437 available jobs according to the latest data.
• What is the work environment like for leather goods cutters?
  - Work is often performed in small workshops or industrial environments, involving repetitive movements and accuracy demands.
• What are the most common benefits for leather goods cutters?
  - Collective agreements, occupational pensions, sick pay, holiday pay, and sometimes wellness allowances are common.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - The Employment Service does not make a specific assessment, but demand exists for skilled craftsmen within niche segments.