Key Responsibilities
Client Consultation and Measurement: Discuss client needs, styles, and fabric choices, and take accurate measurements of pets of various sizes and breeds to ensure a perfect fit.
Design and Pattern Making: Develop original designs or adapt existing patterns for pet garments. Create paper patterns and possibly a 'toile' (mock-up) for fittings.
Fabric Selection: Recommend and work with suitable, pet-safe fabrics that are durable, breathable, and stretchable for active animals.
Garment Construction: Mark and cut fabric pieces using patterns, then sew garments together using sewing machines and hand-sewing techniques.
Fittings and Alterations: Conduct fittings with the pet and owner to make necessary adjustments to the garment to guarantee comfort and fit.
Finishing Touches: Add finishing details such as hooks, zippers, buttons, or snap fasteners. Press the finished garment and remove any chalk marks.
Repairs and Restyling: Alter or repair existing pet garments as per the owner's specifications.
Quality Control: Ensure high-quality stitching and craftsmanship, delivering durable and comfortable products.
Required Skills and Qualifications
Technical Skills:
Proficiency in using sewing machines and various tailoring tools.
Excellent sewing, pattern-making, and cutting skills.
Strong knowledge of different fabric types and garment construction techniques.
Soft Skills:
Exceptional attention to detail and precision in measurements.
Strong customer service and communication skills to effectively interact with pet owners.
Patience and the ability to work with animals, which may not always be cooperative during fittings.
Problem-solving skills to address fitting issues and client requests.
Time management and organizational skills to meet deadlines.
Experience/Education:
Proven experience working as a tailor, seamstress, or in a related field is often required.
A degree or certification in fashion design or pattern-making is beneficial but not always mandatory.
A portfolio of past work, preferably of pet clothing, is an asset.