Dressmaker
Make unique clothes for customers that fit them perfectly.
Also known as: seamstress, seamster
About the job
What it's like
You would make unique clothes for customers that are made-to-measure to fit them perfectly.
You might specialise in a particular type of clothing like wedding dresses and bridalwear.
You could also make all sorts of other clothes for your customers including skirts, dresses, trousers and shirts.
You would:
Discuss the customer’s requirements
Show them fabric samples and pattern books
Give advice on which combination of fabrics and patterns may give the best results
Take the person’s measurements
Adapt an existing pattern, or producing a new pattern for the customer
Calculate the cost of the work, taking into account the fabric, trimmings and time needed
Use the pattern to cut out the fabric pieces
Loosely sew – tack – the fabric pieces together so the customer can try it on
See how the garments fits and make adjustments to create a perfect fit
Sew the pieces securely together to create the final garment
Finish it with beading and embroidery
You would sometimes make a sample or a 'toile’ out of cheaper fabric to check the design and fit before cutting an expensive fabric.
You would use a machine for most of the sewing, but finish detailed work, such as beading or embroidery, by hand.
You could also do alterations and repairs.
Hours
You would usually work between 37 and 40 hours a week, including Saturdays. As a self-employed dressmaker, you could choose your own hours, depending on the amount of work you have and the deadlines you need to meet.
Environment
You would normally be based in a workshop or work from home.
Travel
You may also spend some time visiting clients.
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Related industries
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Creative
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Top specialised skills
These are the top specialised skills that have been found in job vacancies across Scotland. From March 2024 to March 2025.
- garment alterations
- sewing
- textiles
- regulatory compliance
- garment construction
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- taking initiative
- implementing ideas
- concentrating
- attention to detail
- respecting
- empathising
- observation
- designing
- creative
- verbal communication
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Design and Manufacture
Fashion and Textile Technology (Home economics)
Practical Craft Skills
Skills for Work: Creative Industries
Skills for Work: Textiles Industry
There is no fixed entry route into this job.To work as a dressmaker you would need experience and the ability to demonstrate to employers and clients that you have the skills they are looking for. Some dressmakers are self-taught.
You can get into a Fashion Design & Manfucture, Production or Textiles National Certificate or National Qualification courses (SCQF 2-6) with National 4/5 qualifications (SCQF Level 4/5).
You can enter Higher National Certificate (SCQF Level 7) or Higher National Diploma courses (SCQF Level 8) with National 4/5 qualifications and one to two Highers or equivalent qualifications.
Qualifications and experience that demonstrate understanding of the industry and pratical production skills such as a National Certificate in Fashion, Design and Manufacture (SCQF Level 6) or a relevant work-based qualifications such as Skills for Work Fashion and Textile (SVQ Level 2/3).
Good eyesight
Normal colour vision for matching threads and fabrics
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