A draper, also known as a cutter, is a person who works in the clothing design industry. His main responsibility is to translate a designer’s concepts into patterns that can be used to make garments. He frequently serves as a designer’s representative, supervising the work of stitchers and attending fittings to ensure that the designer’s vision is realized. Because this job necessitates a thorough understanding of sewing and design, many employers prefer to hire people with a fashion degree.
The draper’s role is essentially the same whether he works for a glamorous fashion house, a theatrical costume design team, or a uniform manufacturing company: he is in charge of turning a garment designer’s visions into reality. In practice, this usually means that he creates patterns from the designer’s ideas and sketches so that actual garments can be made. After creating a pattern, he cuts the pieces that will make up the garment from fabrics selected by the designer. Stitchers assemble the garment using sewing machines or hand-stitching techniques, usually after the cut garment pieces have been passed along to them.
A draper often acts as a designer’s representative during the garment construction process, in addition to cutting patterns. This means he oversees the work of his stitchers to ensure that all construction is technically sound and that the garments remain true to the designer’s original vision as they take shape. He might also have to go to model or client fittings. He analyzes the fit of a garment-in-progress on the body of the person for whom it is being designed during these sessions and instructs his stitchers or tailors on how to proceed with any necessary alterations.
Drapery work necessitates a thorough understanding of the design process as well as exceptional pattern-making and sewing abilities. When applying for draper jobs, individuals with a fashion design degree may have an advantage over those without a fashion design degree. It’s also possible to work one’s way up to a draper position by excelling in lower-level design positions. Finally, even the most talented drapers must generally defer to their designer, and they may be given little or no creative input in many cases. As a result, those who have trouble following instructions or who want to design their own clothes may not be suitable for the job.