You could take a college course to learn some of the skills you'll need for this job. Courses include:

• fashion
• fashion and textiles
• pattern cutting
• T Level in Craft and Design

Entry requirements

Entry requirements for these courses vary.

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level

You could apply to do an apprenticeship with a clothing company, such as:

• Sewing Machinist Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship
• Garment Maker Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
• Fashion and Textiles Pattern Cutter Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship

You can apply directly to work as a dressmaker. You'll need experience in dressmaking and fashion, and the ability to demonstrate to employers and clients that you have the skills they are looking for.

You can find short courses in dressmaking techniques at adult education centres and with private training providers. These cover how to use a sewing machine, pattern making and pattern cutting.

You can also find guides and tutorials online.

You'll need:

• customer service skills
• design skills and knowledge
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to work well with your hands
• the ability to measure and mark up accurately
• the ability to use your judgement and make decisions
• excellent verbal communication skills
• the ability to organise your time and workload
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

As a dressmaker, you could:

• advise clients on fabrics, prints, colours and styles
• give quotes for costs and timescales
• take accurate measurements
• create a new garment pattern or use a ready made one
• cut out fabric pieces and tack together for fittings
• stitch pieces together with a sewing machine or by hand
• fit the garment and make minor adjustments to suit the client
• make alterations and repairs to existing garments

You could work in a workshop or from home.