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Unit 1 Apparel and Fashion
Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.
Here sewing machine operators sew the pieces together, generally in assembly-
line fashion. In this piecework system, one person does one specifi c task, often
using a specialized machine. For example, workers may sew bundles of collars at
one station and sleeves at another. Later in the assembly line, other workers sew
the parts together. With very expensive clothes, each sewing machine operator
may sew an entire garment.
Finishers sew the fi nal details on garments. They add outside stitching or
any hand sewing the garments require. Trimmers remove loose threads, lint, and
spots from the fi nished products. Pressers remove wrinkles and press creases and
pleats in place on garments. The fi nal task is attaching the labels or hangtags.
Many entry-level jobs in apparel production do not require education
beyond high school. Because of the technical nature of most jobs on the pro-
duction line, employers generally offer on-the-job training or apprenticeship
programs. However, training from trade or technical schools could be helpful
in obtaining a job or advancing to a better job.
Engineering and Management
In addition to production line workers, other people have careers in the
production process. Management personnel are those who plan, coordinate,
and monitor a business. These people may have college degrees in apparel
production, apparel management, or engineering. Workers in engineering and
management have good communication and problem-solving skills which are
essential for dealing with a variety of people and giving clear and accurate
instructions. Engineering and management positions include
• Plant managers. These individuals have total responsibility for what hap-
pens in the company. Another name for plant manager is chief engineer.
• Production managers. Estimating production costs and scheduling work
fl ow in the plant are primary responsibilities for production managers.
They supervise all aspects of production activities in the plant.
4-6 The high-speed
computerized cutting
machines of today
can cut single layers
or multiple layers of
fabric quickly and
precisely.
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