Job Summary
The Costume Shop Stitcher constructs, alters, repairs, and maintains costumes for theatrical productions. Working from designer renderings, patterns, fitting notes, and draping instructions, the Stitcher produces high-quality garments while meeting production deadlines. This position requires strong sewing skills, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate effectively with designers, drapers, crafts artisans, and wardrobe staff.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Construct costumes from commercial or custom patterns.
- Assemble garments using both industrial and domestic sewing equipment.
- Perform alterations based on fitting notes provided by the Costume Designer.
- Hem, finish, and press garments to professional theatrical standards.
- Install zippers, closures, trims, boning, interfacing, and other costume components.
- Hand sew as needed, including hems, closures, embellishments, and finishing work.
- Repair and maintain costumes throughout the rehearsal and performance process.
- Assist with costume fittings and implement alterations following fittings.
- Label, organize, and track costume pieces.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
- Operate sewing machines, sergers, irons, and pressing equipment safely.
- Assist with costume pulls, strike, and restocking when required.
- Meet production schedules while maintaining a high standard of craftsmanship.
- Collaborate respectfully with costume shop staff, wardrobe personnel, and production management.
Required Qualifications
- Excellent attention to detail.
- High level of craftsmanship.
- Ability to prioritize multiple projects.
- Strong communication and teamwork skills.
- Flexibility in adapting to changing production needs.
- Commitment to maintaining costume quality throughout the production process.
- Strong proficiency in garment construction and sewing techniques.
- Experience operating industrial sewing machines and sergers.
- Ability to read commercial patterns and follow construction instructions.
- Knowledge of fabric types, grain, and garment finishing techniques.
- Ability to perform detailed hand sewing.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills.
- Ability to receive and implement notes efficiently.
- Ability to lift up to 30 pounds and work at cutting tables and sewing stations for extended periods.
Preferred Qualifications
- Previous experience in a professional or educational costume shop.
- Experience with theatrical costume construction.
- Knowledge of historical and period garment construction.
- Basic pattern alteration skills.
- Familiarity with specialty fabrics such as stretch materials, leather, vinyl, or delicate textiles.
Work Environment
- Fast-paced theatrical costume shop.
- Frequent use of industrial sewing equipment, steam irons, and pressing tools.
- Work may require standing or sitting for extended periods.
- Evening and weekend hours may be required during production periods.
Pay: $25.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Employee discount
- Retirement plan
People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply
Work Location: In person
