Weaving consultant

What does a weaving consultant do? – Tasks and work environment

A weaving consultant works with advising, training, and mentoring in weaving and textile crafts. The tasks often include planning and conducting courses, providing technical support to weavers, and assisting with material selection and pattern development. Weaving consultants serve as inspirators for both hobby weavers and professionals, often working closely with study associations, folk high schools, museums, or textile organizations. The work environment is varied and can include classrooms, studios, or digital platforms for remote guidance. The profession requires a strong interest in textile techniques, pedagogical skills, and a good sense of color, form, and materials.

Salary development over time

The salary for weaving consultants has shown a clear downward trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 41,000 SEK per month, which then decreased to 38 200 SEK in 2023 and further to 37 700 SEK in 2024. Overall, this represents a decrease of about 8% during the period. This development can partly be explained by changes in the labor market demand, where an increase in short-term contracts and part-time work has negatively affected average salaries. Meanwhile, the general wage development in the education and culture sectors has been weaker than the labor market average. Salary variations between regions and employer categories remain significant.

Weaving consultant salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 37 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 29,700 SEK/month (woman, private sector employee, high school education)
• Highest salary: 41,700 SEK/month (woman, private sector employee, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Hourly wage: 227 SEK/hour (average, based on 166 hours/month)
• Women's salary: 38 500 SEK/month (105% of men's salary)
• Men's salary: 36 700 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salaries may vary based on employer, education level, and region; larger cities tend to offer higher wages.

Education and qualifications

To work as a weaving consultant, a relevant post-secondary education in textiles, crafts, or pedagogy is usually required. Many have studied at folk high schools or universities with a textile focus, often supplementing with courses in teaching methods or mentoring. Practical experience in weaving and textile techniques is essential, as well as pedagogical skills and the ability to work independently.

• Post-secondary education: Textile studies at university or folk high school, at least 2–3 years
• Courses/certifications: Pedagogical training or mentoring courses are advantageous
• Internship: Practical placement or traineeship in textile activities is recommended
• Prerequisites: Good knowledge of weaving techniques and textile materials
• Tips: Combining artistic and pedagogical studies increases employability

Common benefits and compensations

Weaving consultants are often offered collectively negotiated benefits such as occupational pension, holiday pay, and wellness allowances. Other common benefits include flexible working hours, opportunities for skills development, and sometimes access to own studios or work materials. Within study associations and municipal work, subsidized courses and training days may also be included.

Competition and challenges

Competition for permanent positions as a weaving consultant is significant, especially in metropolitan regions where many qualified candidates are present. Many positions are advertised as temporary or project-based, which can create uncertainty about long-term employment. The profession also requires ongoing skills development to meet new pedagogical demands and changing participant interests. Digitalization of courses and increased documentation requirements demand flexibility and technical skills. Balancing artistic freedom with administrative tasks is often seen as a challenge.

Tips for those who want to become a weaving consultant

To succeed as a weaving consultant, it is beneficial to combine a strong interest in textiles with pedagogical skills and social abilities. Creativity and curiosity aid in developing new course formats and inspiring teaching. Structured planning and patience are essential to support participants at different levels, while independence facilitates work on personal projects and administrative tasks. Networking within the textile industry and continuous further education in both techniques and pedagogy are additional factors that increase the chances of a successful career.

Key facts about Weaving Consultant

• Average salary: 37 700 SEK/month
• Salary range: 29,700–41,700 SEK/month
• Women's salary relative to men: 105%
• Education level: Post-secondary textile education, at least 2–3 years
• Work environment: Courses, studios, digital platforms

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years in the profession, a weaving consultant can advance to leading roles within course activities, such as training manager or project leader for larger textile initiatives. Other career options include working as a textile consultant, business developer in the culture sector, or self-employed with own course activities. The Employment Service's forecast indicates continued stable demand, with 434 available jobs in the profession, including other educators and instructors. However, competition for permanent positions can be high, especially in regions with strong textile traditions.

Frequently asked questions about Weaving Consultant

• What does a weaving consultant earn?
  - The average salary for a weaving consultant is 37 700 SEK per month, with a range between 29,700 and 41,700 SEK depending on experience, education, and employer.
• What education is required to become a weaving consultant?
  - Usually, a post-secondary textile education of at least 2–3 years is required, often combined with pedagogical courses.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn on average 38 500 SEK compared to men's 36 700 SEK, which means women earn 105% of men's salaries.
• Which workplaces hire weaving consultants?
  - Common employers include study associations, folk high schools, museums, textile organizations, and sometimes municipalities.
• What are the future prospects for weaving consultants?
  - The labor market is relatively stable with 434 available jobs, but competition for permanent positions can be high.
• What benefits are common in the profession?
  - Collective benefits such as occupational pension, holiday pay, wellness allowances, and sometimes access to own studios are often offered.
• Can I work as a weaving consultant part-time?
  - Yes, part-time and hourly positions are common, especially in courses and project-based work.