Sew, join, reinforce, or finish, usually with needle and thread, a variety of manufactured items. Includes weavers and stitchers.
U.S. Workers
2,240
Median Salary
$33,760
10-Year Growth
-7.0%
Annual Openings
700
Typical entry: No formal educational credential
13 of 13 tasks have some AI capability
Exposure Trend
This score reflects estimated AI technical capability for tasks in this occupation. It does not predict employment changes, and it does not account for company-specific constraints, regulation, or adoption barriers.
Trim excess threads or edges of parts, using scissors or knives.
AI: Fully automatable - Trimming excess threads or edges is a straightforward vision-guided cutting task that is already widely automated with robotic cutters and finishing machines.
Select thread, twine, cord, or yarn to be used, and thread needles.
AI: Fully automatable - Thread selection can be handled by inventory/AI recommendation systems and needle-threading is solvable with existing automatic needle-threading devices.
Draw and cut patterns according to specifications.
AI: Fully automatable - Drawing patterns (CAD/AI-assisted) and precision cutting are fully automatable using pattern-generation software and CNC/laser/automated cutting machines.
Smooth seams with heated irons, flat bones, or rubbing sticks.
AI: Fully automatable - Smoothing seams with heated irons or presses is a mechanically simple, well-solved industrial process with automated presses and robotic ironing solutions.
Measure and align parts, fasteners, or trimmings, following seams, edges, or markings on parts.
AI: Fully automatable - Measuring and aligning parts using vision systems, fixtures, and robotic positioning is reliable and widely automated in manufacturing environments.
Sew buttonholes, or add lace or other trimming.
AI: Fully automatable - Buttonholes and the attachment of lace or trimmings are routine tasks for specialized machines and automated sewing/attachment equipment.
Wax thread by drawing it through a ball of wax.
AI: Fully automatable - Waxing thread by drawing it through wax is a simple, repeatable mechanical operation that can be fully automated with basic machinery or robotic end-effectors.
Soften leather or shoe material with water to prepare it for sewing.
AI: Fully automatable - Soaking or wetting leather to soften it is a simple, repeatable physical operation that can be automated with actuators and sensors in industrial or shop settings.
Attach trimmings and labels to articles with cement, using brushes or cement guns.
AI: Fully automatable - Applying adhesive and attaching trims/labels with brushes or guns is a standardized, repeatable process already automated in many factories using robotic dispensers and vision guidance.
Sew, join, reinforce, or finish parts of articles, such as garments, books, mattresses, toys, and wigs, using needles and thread or other materials.
AI: Partial - AI-driven sewing robots can handle many repetitive seams but still struggle with the variable materials, fine dexterity, and complex manipulations required for comprehensive hand-sewing and finishing.
Fold, twist, stretch, or drape material, and secure articles in preparation for sewing.
AI: Partial - Robots can perform some folding and fixturing but dexterous draping, stretching and securing of deformable textile materials remain only partially solved by current systems.
Use different sewing techniques such as felling, tacking, basting, embroidery, and fagoting.
AI: Partial - While specific techniques like machine embroidery are fully automated, many delicate hand techniques (felling, fagoting, bespoke basting) still require human skill and judgment.
Tie, knit, weave or knot ribbon, yarn, or decorative materials.
AI: Partial - Robots and AI can tie and knot in controlled, repeatable contexts, but the variability and fine dexterity required for decorative, bespoke work prevents full automation by 2025.