Tailors make garments to customers' specifications. They follow the process through from start to finish and their tasks include: helping the customer choose the right fabric and style of garment; taking the customer's measurements; and developing a design for the garment or modifying an existing design.
A tailor may draw an individual pattern or alter a standard pattern to fit the customer, then cut and assemble the garment. The customer is then called for a fitting and the garment is put on and the tailor marks areas requiring alterations. The alterations are then done, zippers inserted, button-holes made and buttons sewn on, plus any decorative features.
Many tailors specialise in alteration work, as there is a demand for this service in retail stores and dry-cleaners, which offer alterations as part of their service.
Those that work in clothing factories need to acquire the necessary technical knowledge in all phases of clothing production.