CDCareer Decision

Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers Salary in CA

In the 2025 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS dataset, Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers in CA have a median annual salary of $89,010, with 930 recorded jobs in this area. Recorded earnings range from $47,730 at the 10th percentile to $114,800 at the 90th percentile.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS · Data year: 2025 · Last updated: 2026-09-22

Salary overview

Median annual salary

$89,010

Data year: 2025

Hourly median

$42.79

Employment

930

Source

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS

Salary distribution

$47,730
10th
$64,690
25th
$89,010
Median
$99,740
75th
$114,800
90th

Local compared with national

CA

$89,010

Median annual · 2025

United States

$62,750

Median annual · 2025

The CA median is 41.8% above the national median in the available dataset (a difference of $26,260).

Top skills

  1. 1.Critical ThinkingImportance 3.8
  2. 2.Active ListeningImportance 3.4
  3. 3.Judgment and Decision MakingImportance 3.3
  4. 4.Time ManagementImportance 3.3
  5. 5.Reading ComprehensionImportance 3.1
  6. 6.SpeakingImportance 3.1
  7. 7.MathematicsImportance 3.1
  8. 8.Active LearningImportance 3.1
  9. 9.MonitoringImportance 3.1
  10. 10.Quality Control AnalysisImportance 3.1
  11. 11.WritingImportance 3.0
  12. 12.Learning StrategiesImportance 3.0

Career information

Education and experience

Typical education
High School Diploma or the equivalent (such as a GED)
Experience
Over 4 years, up to and including 6 years
Job zone
3

Technology used

  • Adobe Creative Cloud software
  • Adobe Illustrator
  • Adobe InDesign
  • Adobe Photoshop
  • Autodesk AutoCAD
  • Gerber Technology AccuMark
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Office software
  • Microsoft Outlook
  • Microsoft Word
  • PatternMaker

Common tasks

  • Create a master pattern for each size within a range of garment sizes, using charts, drafting instruments, computers, or grading devices.
  • Input specifications into computers to assist with pattern design and pattern cutting.
  • Draw details on outlined parts to indicate where parts are to be joined, as well as the positions of pleats, pockets, buttonholes, and other features, using computers or drafting instruments.
  • Make adjustments to patterns after fittings.
  • Compute dimensions of patterns according to sizes, considering stretching of material.
  • Mark samples and finished patterns with information, such as garment size, section, style, identification, and sewing instructions.
  • Draw outlines of pattern parts by adapting or copying existing patterns, or by drafting new patterns.
  • Test patterns by making and fitting sample garments.
  • Position and cut out master or sample patterns, using scissors and knives, or print out copies of patterns, using computers.
  • Create a paper pattern from which to mass-produce a design concept.

Related careers

Occupations recorded as related in the dataset. A relationship does not imply a guaranteed transition.

Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers salary in other locations

Other occupations in CA