Someone with a passion for fashion might want to pursue a career as a technical designer. A technician designer’s primary responsibility in the fashion industry is to work on measurements, pattern development, and fit issues. He or she takes the initial design and turns it into a detailed pattern that the production team can use to make the item. By arranging the pattern on the material in the most efficient way possible, the technical designer is responsible for minimizing waste and costs.
To work as a technical designer in the fashion industry, you must first complete a post-secondary training program in fashion, pattern-making technology, or technical design. Only dedicated fashion schools are able to offer these programs. Because there are only a small number of positions available each year, the competition for admissions is fierce.
Additional sewing and garment construction courses are essential for anyone aspiring to be a technical designer. The skills you’ll learn here will help you communicate more effectively with designers and evaluate patterns more quickly. Because this work is now done on computers, advanced computer skills with illustration and pattern-creation programs are required. The factory receives the final file electronically, which reduces errors.
It can be difficult to gain experience in the fashion industry. Internships are the most effective way to accomplish this. These three- to six-month opportunities are usually arranged through the fashion designer school, which has connections with local fashion design firms. Working for a fabric supplier or a clothing manufacturer is an example of related experience. Positions in these companies provide insight into how the technical designer’s instructions should be delivered and the challenges that may arise.
A combination of experience and a strong portfolio is required to land a full-time position as a technical designer. The portfolio is made up of samples of patterns, production packages, and proposals rather than a collection of fashion designs. This is a job that necessitates a high level of accuracy and precision. Mistakes cost a lot of money, so someone who can show that they pay attention to detail has a better chance of succeeding.
Working as a senior designer, technical director, or production manager are all options for technical designers who want to advance their careers. These positions come with competitive pay and the opportunity to work with people from all over the world. The vast majority of fashion is made in Asia, which opens up opportunities for travel.