Who is a Seamstress, Tailor or Stitcher?
A seamstress makes a living by sewing different kind of clothes. They are expected to have sewing skills and a vivid imagination.
The requirements for a Stitcher
Sewing Skills
A seamstress or stitcher doesn’t need to have a college degree. The primary requirement of a seamstress or stitcher is a sewing skill. This skill can be self-taught or learned.
It can be self-taught by taking advantage of free resources on the Internet. Resources such as tutorials, downloadable patterns, and online courses are available online. Taking classes in a community college can also learn it.
Fashion and Design Knowledge
A seamstress or stitcher should have an insight in fashion and design principles. Knowing how to choose fabrics, accessories and designs come with the job.
A Little Match Doesn’t Hurt
A seamstress or stitcher must have basic math knowledge. They should be able to take a measurement, make basic addition and subtraction. After measuring out clients, you’ll be calculating how much fabric to buy, and figuring out costs for producing dresses, outfits, or suits.
Creative Mindset
A seamstress or stitcher must be able to have a mental picture of what a dress will look like before it is finished. A seamstress or stitcher must be able to advise clients about fabric and patterns.
Interpersonal Skills
The job involves dealing with client one-on-one. Most jobs will come from referrals by the previous clients that vouch for you. A seamstress or stitcher must be approachable, have both verbal and communication skills.
Building a professional as a Seamstress
It recommended a Seamstress to focus on a specific niche. There are different kinds of niche a Seamstress can pick. Such niches can be a costume dress for a pageant, bridal gown, and ball gown, to mention a few. It is important for a Seamstress to have a strong client base. Most of the jobs you get come from referrals from your previous clients. It is not necessary to be self-employed as a Seamstress. You can make a mark by working in the clothing industry.
Resources needed for a seamstress or stitcher
A sewing machine
The sewing machine is the most important tool for a seamstress. There are different brands of sewing machines.
Pins and Pincushion
It is rare to make a piece without the use of a straight pin. Pins are used to hold pieces together. The pincushion is used to keep pins organized and at hand when they are needed.
Iron and ironing board: After you’ve finished a line of cloth, it is required to set the heat to the fabric you are using. Ironing gives the outcome of your work a professional touch.
The Average Salary of a Seamstress
As of 2020, the average annual salary for a seamstress is a sum of $34,191 (Source: U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics)