Embroidery Work
Embroidery work includes creating artistic designs on fabric using threads, needles and beads. It is used to design dresses, curtains, tablecloths, bags, etc. Embroidery work may be done by hand or with the help of an embroidery machine. Embroidery work has bright prospects in fashion industry. Here is a synopsis of career in embroidery making.
Job Nature
Embroidery work is creative work. It requires a creative eye, precision in work and finesse in work. It includes certain degree of manual labor as workers are expected to operate the machines to produce designed fabric. Some senior profiles include supervisory and coaching functions majorly and less of operational duties.
Job Scope
There are two profiles prominently found in embroidery work.
- Embroidery Designer - A designer is responsible to develop innovate designs to be embroidered on the fabric. He determines which colors and embellishments to use and where to use them on the fabric. He directs the craft makers to embroider the designs as planned.
- Embroidery Machine Operator - An operator functions the embroidery machinery and draws out the planned designs on the fabric, either by hand or with machine. He places the design on the fabric accurately, arranges the embellishments and embroiders the fabric.
- Embroidery Machine Repairer - A repairer performs maintenance and repairing functions to ensure smooth functioning of the machine. They must be adept at analyzing the defects, correcting the malfunctioning and improving the life span of the machine.
- Embroidery Supervisor - A supervisor inspects the work performed by the workers and ensures the embroidered piece of fabric matches the quality standards. They work as embroidery trainers or instructors, as per the requirements.
Work Requirements
Educational qualifications are not mandatory for embroidery work. However, certain qualities and abilities are important for this work.
- Must have completed on-job training or apprenticeship for operating the embroidery machine
- Ability to program and operate different embroidery machines
- Knowledge of beading, threadwork, needlework, quilting, etc
- Skills of attention to detailing, hand and eye coordination, critical thinking and artistic vision
Work Conditions
- Embroidery work is performed in workshops where several workers are allotted a machine to embroider the cloth. Outdoor work is uncommon in this profile.
- Embroidery work is performed for 45 hours a week. Workers may be required to work overtime if the project deadlines demand so.
- Some workers may have to work under noisy conditions. Also, at times, insufficient lightings prove hindrance while performing minute work for the workers. In some cases, workers may be susceptible to injuries from needles and knives attached to the machine. Besides this, work is not subject to any major health hazards.
Career prospects
Embroidery work is gaining popularity as full time career in recent times. This is due to the rise of the fashion industry and its potential to offer jobs to candidates. Job opportunities are available in organizations that make garments and accessories such as jewelry, footwear, bags, etc. An embroidery worker can progress in his career by working as an embroidery supervisor, instructor or trainer. A career in embroidery can be pursued independently. It offers opportunities to candidates to own an embroidery machine and start a business. A future in embroidery making appears rewarding and enriching.
If you have talent and commitment to work hard, there is nothing that can stop you from making a career in embroidery making. Whether your strengths lie in creative work or technical work, any candidate can make a successful career by pursuing embroidery work.
