To launch a seamstress career, you should try to obtain formal training in sewing and fashion while also looking for entry-level work at a garment manufacturer or clothing shop or for an established alterations or custom sewing business. In many cases, an apprenticeship may be your best alternative for combining vocational training with employment. After you achieve proficiency in your craft, you may decide to work for yourself by finding clients or contracting with clothing stores and independent designers.
If you are currently a high school student, you may be able to prepare for a seamstress career by take sewing courses while you are in school. If you are older, you may have several different options for learning about sewing, fabrics, and fashion within your community. Some community and vocational colleges offer classes in sewing as well as in fashion design and merchandising. While you may not aspire to be a fashion designer, learning about fashion, style, and the marketing of clothing can be helpful in developing a strong professional reputation as someone who can make his or her clients look good in their clothing. Other options include taking classes at local fabric stores or through adult education programs.
Getting experience that can help you establish your seamstress career can be a challenge, so you may need to be both creative and tenacious. In some areas, you may be able to enroll in an apprenticeship program that can help you find work in an established clothing shop or dry cleaner or working directly for a skilled tailor or seamstress. In other cases, you may have to contact potential employers directly. You may also want to think about volunteering your services to organizations that help the less fortunate by providing them with clothing that they can wear on job interviews. Offer to perform basic repairs and alterations in exchange for a reference or recommendation.
While many people are used to purchasing clothing off the rack, some have difficulty finding clothing that fits properly. These people are potential clients for garment construction or alterations. When you begin your seamstress career, set up a website with pictures of your work and your rates so that potential customers can become aware of your services. You can also place flyers around town letting people know that you are available for custom sewing work. As you build a clientele, you will be able to find new customers through referrals.