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What does a Tailor do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A tailor is a person who makes, repairs, or alters clothing, especially suits and other outerwear.

Tailor job duties include:

  • Measuring clients in order to determine the size and shape of garments
  • Selecting fabrics and trimmings
  • Cutting fabric using patterns or templates
  • Joining fabric sections together with temporary stitching
  • Fitting garments on clients or mannequins to check for proper fit and drape
  • Adjusting garment construction to achieve desired fit
  • Marking fabric with details of construction, such as darts, pleats, and buttonholes
  • Sewing garments using various hand and machine stitches
  • Pressing finished garments

Tailor Job Requirements

There are no formal education requirements for becoming a tailor, although completing a vocational program or apprenticeship can be helpful. Certification is not required, but can demonstrate mastery of the trade. Experience is the most important requirement for becoming a successful tailor. Many tailors start out as apprentices in order to gain on-the-job training.

Tailor Skills

  • Sewing
  • Measuring
  • Cutting
  • Designing
  • Tailoring
  • Fitting
  • Alterations
  • Repairs
  • Embellishments
  • Beading
  • Sequins
  • Rhinestones

Related: Top Tailor Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Tailor

There are many reasons why someone might want to become a tailor. For some, it may be a family tradition. Others may be drawn to the creative aspects of the trade or the challenge of working with different fabrics and materials. Whatever the reason, becoming a tailor can be a rewarding and fulfilling career.

There are a few key things that anyone interested in becoming a tailor should keep in mind. First, it is important to have an eye for detail and be able to visualize how a garment will look once it is finished. Second, tailors must be able to work quickly and efficiently while still maintaining high standards of quality. And finally, tailors need to have excellent customer service skills in order to build strong relationships with clients.

If you have an interest in becoming a tailor, the first step is to find an apprenticeship or training program. There are many ways to do this, but one option is to contact your local Chamber of Commerce or business association. Once you have found a program that meets your needs, the next step is to complete the required coursework and exams. After successfully completing an apprenticeship or training program, you will then be ready to start your own tailoring business or pursue employment with an existing company.

Related: Tailor Resume Example

Related: Tailor Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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