Human edge, steady

Fabric and apparel patternmakers

Draw and construct sets of precision master fabric patterns or layouts. May also mark and cut fabrics and apparel.

AI Resistance Index 29 of 99

Changing faster than most: more resilient than 29% of the 831 careers we score. AI exposure is low (the Bureau of Labor Statistics rates it moderate), and US jobs are projected to change by -15.0% by 2035, expected to shrink. The work leans on creative vision and physical dexterity.

AI struggles with much of this work. Hiring is expected to grow slower than average, or to shrink.

Median pay (2025): $62,750
Job growth to 2035: -15.0%
Openings a year: 200
People doing it (2025): 3,000
Usual route in: High school diploma, then moderate on-the-job training

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Where people already use AI for this work

Design materials or devices
Program computer systems or production equipment
Measure physical characteristics of materials, products, or equipment

From Microsoft Research, Working with AI (2025).

Work AI rarely helps with

Position materials or components for assembly
Assemble products or work aids
Mark materials or objects for identification

What the work looks like

Create a master pattern for each size within a range of garment sizes, using charts, drafting instruments, computers, or grading devices.
Input specifications into computers to assist with pattern design and pattern cutting.
Draw details on outlined parts to indicate where parts are to be joined, as well as the positions of pleats, pockets, buttonholes, and other features, using computers or drafting instruments.
Make adjustments to patterns after fittings.
Compute dimensions of patterns according to sizes, considering stretching of material.

From O*NET 31.0, US Department of Labor.

Careers using similar strengths, with a stronger outlook

Model makers, woodHuman edge, steady, Index 62, -3.3%
Tailors, dressmakers, and custom sewersHuman edge, steady, Index 49, -8.8%
Jewelers and precious stone and metal workersHuman edge, steady, Index 51, -3.2%
Patternmakers, woodHuman edge, steady, Index 59, -2.0%

Also known as: Designer, Pattern Designer, Pattern Maker, Production Pattern Maker, Cutter, Fabric Cutter, Pattern Technician, Sewing Pattern Layout Technician.

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Sources: US Bureau of Labor Statistics Employment Projections 2025 to 2035; O*NET 31.0; Microsoft Research (2025); Anthropic Economic Index (2026); Eloundou and colleagues (Science, 2024); Felten, Raj and Seamans (2023). How we score. Updated 12 October 2026.