Pattern Maker

Tasks & duties

Pattern makers may do some or all of the following:

• read, design and interpret pattern drawings
• work out the sections needed to make up the pattern
• select material for the pattern such as wood, resin and fibreglass, or metal for high production patterns
• may build plugs (plastic replicas) and then make patterns from them
• mark the materials for cutting and machining
• cut and shape the parts
• screw, glue or clamp the castings together
• check measurements
• trim, smooth and polish the surfaces
• paint or lacquer the pattern
• repair worn or broken patterns
• may make replica models for display purposes

Skills & knowledge

Pattern makers need to have:

• knowledge of different materials such as metals, woods, clays, plastics and resins
• knowledge of how to read technical drawings
• the ability to visualise products before they are made
• knowledge of how to use and care for equipment
• good technical and engineering skills
• maths skills for making calculations
• organisational skills in order to meet deadlines
• listening and communication skills

Entry requirements

To become a pattern maker you need to complete an apprenticeship and gain a National Certificate in Metal Casting Technology. For further information about apprenticeships contact Tools4Work.

Secondary education

To become a pattern making apprentice or trainee, a minimum of School Certificate or NCEA equivalent technical drawing, maths and workshop technology is needed.

Tertiary education

Some employers prefer that you have done a pre-apprenticeship course, but this is not compulsory.

Training on the job

Skills are gained on the job.

Useful experience

Useful experience for pattern makers includes:

• toolmaking work
• foundry work
• technical drawing or any type of creative work
• work experience in an industrial workshop
• work with plastics and wood

Related courses

Metal Casting and Pattern Making

For more information, please refer to Career Services.