Cutter job numbers falling
The number of cutter jobs has decreased due to:
- increasing use of computerised cutting machines
- New Zealand businesses using overseas cutters to save on costs.
Although the number of cutters is falling, not enough people are training in this area. This means that when cutters leave the industry, employers find it difficult to replace them.
According to the Census, 231 cutters worked in New Zealand in 2018.
Chances best for cutters with a variety of skills
As fashion businesses are now generally smaller, cutters who have a range of skills, such as in different types of fabric, marking and patternmaking, are more likely to be hired.
Most cutter jobs not advertised
If you are interested in getting work as a cutter, it's best to approach companies yourself, as over half of new positions in the industry are not advertised.
Types of employers varied
Cutters may work for:
- small fashion houses
- large clothing manufacturers
- fashion retailers
- soft-furnishing manufacturers
- tent and canvas manufacturers
- furniture and curtain shops
- tailors and dressmakers.
Many cutters are self-employed, contracting their services out to a range of clients.
