Job Description

Job Summary

The Upholstery Pattern Maker is responsible for developing and refining upholstery patterns for furniture pieces, ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and quality in production. This role requires expertise in traditional pattern-making techniques, including creating patterns by hand, translating design specifications into working templates, and collaborating with upholstery and production teams to optimize fit and finish. The Upholstery Pattern Maker plays a critical role in product development, ensuring each piece meets company standards and aligns with manufacturing capabilities.

You embody our core values: We Are Family, We Own It, We Give our All, and We Have Fun , fostering teamwork, accountability, and excellence in every aspect of upholstery pattern development.

Department and Reporting Structure

• Department : Product Development

• Reports To : Director of Product Development

• FLSA Status : Non-Exempt

• Direct Reports : None

Key Responsibilities

Pattern Development and Refinement

• We Own It : Create, refine, and modify upholstery patterns by hand, ensuring they fit frame structures properly and achieve the desired aesthetic and functional outcomes.

• We Give Our All : Translate design specifications into precise working templates, optimizing both form and function.

• We Are Family : Collaborate with product development, upholstery, and engineering teams to ensure patterns meet production standards.

• Assist in upholstery production as needed.

Prototyping and Adjustments

• Develop and test prototype patterns, making necessary adjustments to achieve a perfect fit before full production.

• We Own It : Work closely with upholstery teams to troubleshoot fit issues and refine patterns as needed.

Material Optimization and Documentation

• We Give Our All : Ensure patterns maximize material efficiency while minimizing waste without compromising quality.

• Maintain detailed documentation of patterns, including measurements, seam allowances, fabric requirements, and production modifications.

Collaboration and Quality Control

• We Are Family : Partner with upholstery teams to test and troubleshoot patterns, ensuring ease of application for production staff.

• Evaluate finished upholstery pieces for accuracy in pattern execution and make refinements as needed.

Technical Support and Training

• We Have Fun : Assist in training and guiding upholstery team members on pattern layout and best practices.

• Provide ongoing support to production teams to improve efficiency and craftsmanship.

Software Utilization (if applicable)

• While hand-drawn patterns are the primary method, experience with CAD software for pattern digitization is a plus.

Qualifications

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent required.

• Technical training or certification in upholstery pattern making or design is a plus.

Experience

• Minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in upholstery pattern making, preferably in an upholstered furniture manufacturing environment.

• Minimum of 5 years hands-on experience in upholstery/trim producing sofas, chairs, sectionals, ottomans, headboards.

Skills

• Strong proficiency in creating patterns by hand, including shaping, marking, and cutting.

• We Own It : Strong attention to detail in measurements, fabric properties, and fit adjustments.

• Ability to troubleshoot fit issues and refine patterns for optimal production efficiency.

• We Are Family : Strong communication and teamwork skills to collaborate across product development, upholstery, and production teams.

• Understanding of different upholstery fabrics, leathers, and foam densities and how they interact with patterns.

• Skilled in using hand tools such as rulers, fabric shears, pattern paper, and marking tools.

Certifications

• None required, though training in pattern-making techniques or CAD software is a plus.

Core Competencies

• We Are Family : Collaborate with team members to develop high-quality, well-crafted upholstery patterns.

• We Own It : Take accountability for ensuring patterns are precise, efficient, and ready for production.

• We Give Our All : Demonstrate dedication to craftsmanship and continuous improvement.

• We Have Fun : Foster a positive and engaging workplace where creativity and innovation thrive.

Performance Metrics

• Accuracy and efficiency in pattern development.

• Reduction in material waste through optimized pattern layouts.

• Improvement in fit consistency and production efficiency.

• Effectiveness in troubleshooting and resolving pattern-related issues.

Work Environment

• Work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to upholstery materials, hand tools, and production equipment.

• Fast-paced, team-oriented setting where adaptability and efficiency are key.

Travel Requirements

• Minimal, though occasional travel for training or industry events may be required.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, bend, and work with hands for extended periods.

• Capability to lift up to 25-50 lbs as needed.

• Strong hand-eye coordination for precise cutting and measuring. 

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