Cutters, leather clothes

What does a pattern maker in leather clothing do? – Tasks and work environment

A pattern maker specializing in leather clothing is responsible for precisely drawing, measuring, and cutting pattern pieces in leather and hide for sewing. The work involves using both hand tools and machines to ensure each piece has the correct shape, size, and fit according to orders or collections. Collaboration is often close with tailors, designers, and seamstresses, where the pattern maker contributes expertise on material properties and handling. The work environment can range from small ateliers to larger industrial facilities, and the profession demands high accuracy, patience, and an interest in craftsmanship.

Salary development over time

During the period 2022–2024, the salary for pattern makers in leather clothing has shown relatively stable growth. In 2022, the average salary was 28,800 SEK per month. In 2023, it increased to 31 000 SEK, corresponding to an increase of about 7.6%. In 2024, there was a slight decline to 30 900 SEK. Despite this small decrease between 2023 and 2024, the salary has had a positive trend over the three-year period. The development can be interpreted as a sign of a mature and stable labor market where demand and supply are balanced, and larger pay raises are uncommon due to limited demand and a certain surplus of labor in the profession. Small variations between years may also be due to economic fluctuations, regional differences, or changes in collective agreements.

Pattern maker in leather clothing salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 30 900 SEK/month
• Lowest/Highest salary: Data not available
• Hourly wage: 186 SEK/hour (calculated on 166 hours/month)
• Gender pay gap: Women 30 800 SEK/month, data for men is unavailable
• Regional differences: No detailed information available

Education and qualifications

To work as a pattern maker in leather clothing, a combination of craft training and specific knowledge of materials and pattern techniques is often required. Many start with a vocational high school program focusing on textiles, fashion, or sewing, followed by further education in pattern making and internships in ateliers or industry. Practical experience and an eye for detail are crucial, and additional courses in leather and hide processing can be advantageous.

• High school education: Vocational program in textiles or fashion (3 years)
• Higher vocational education: Specialized training in pattern making (1–2 years)
• Internships: Experience from ateliers or industry is highly valuable
• Courses: Supplementary training in leather and hide processing
• Prerequisites: Interest in craftsmanship, precision, and material knowledge

Common benefits and compensations

Pattern makers in leather clothing are often covered by collective agreements that regulate occupational pensions, sick pay, holiday pay, and insurances. Other common benefits may include wellness allowances, work clothing, and access to ergonomic equipment. In some cases, opportunities for skills development and training support within the company are also offered.

Competition and challenges

The job market for pattern makers in leather clothing is characterized by low demand and a certain surplus of labor. According to the Employment Service's forecasts for tailors and atelier seamstresses, opportunities for employment are limited, and the situation is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Competition for available positions is therefore high, and experience and specialized knowledge are required to stand out. Digitalization and automation may also change work tasks, although the artisanal nature of the profession remains valued in certain niche segments.

Tips for those who want to become a pattern maker in leather clothing

To succeed as a pattern maker in leather clothing, a genuine interest in craftsmanship and materials is beneficial. Attention to detail is crucial in every work step, so practice working methodically and precisely during your education. Creativity and problem-solving skills help when unexpected challenges arise with different types of leather. Patience and good teamwork skills are also important, as work often occurs in teams where communication and responsiveness contribute to a better final product. To improve job prospects, consider supplementing your basic education with courses in leather processing or digital pattern construction. Finally, being flexible and adaptable is an advantage, as tasks and techniques often vary depending on collections, clients, or workplaces.

Key facts about pattern makers in leather clothing

• Educational level: High school and higher vocational education
• Work environment: Atelier or industrial production
• Work form: Craftsmanship with specialization in leather
• Demand: Limited opportunities, surplus of labor
• Number of job vacancies in the profession: 341 (May 2024)

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years in the profession, there are opportunities to advance to more specialized roles such as head or pattern designer, or to take greater responsibility for product development and design within leather clothing. Some choose to start their own atelier or work as consultants in the fashion and textile industry. According to the Employment Service, demand for pattern makers and similar crafts is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, with limited job opportunities and a national surplus of labor. However, specialized knowledge of exclusive materials or digital patterning can provide competitive advantages in niche markets. Opportunities for further education or international work are available for those wishing to broaden their skills.

Frequently asked questions about pattern makers in leather clothing

• What does a pattern maker in leather clothing earn?
  - The average salary is 30 900 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of approximately 186 SEK.
• What education is required to become a pattern maker in leather clothing?
  - A vocational high school program and/or higher vocational education focusing on pattern making, along with internships, are recommended.
• What is the job market like for pattern makers in leather clothing?
  - Opportunities for employment are limited, and competition for positions is high according to the Employment Service.
• Are there gender pay differences?
  - Women earn on average 30 800 SEK, while data for men is unavailable.
• What are the most common work environments?
  - Work is mainly carried out in ateliers or industrial facilities, often with advanced equipment.
• What is needed to succeed in this profession?
  - Attention to detail, patience, material knowledge, and an interest in craftsmanship are important qualities.
• What are the future prospects?
  - Demand is expected to remain unchanged over five years, but specialization can open niche opportunities.