Notch

Term from Tailoring industry explained for recruiters

A notch is a V-shaped cut or indentation commonly found in garment construction and tailoring. It's most recognizable on suit jacket and coat lapels, but it also refers to important markings on sewing patterns that help pieces align correctly. Think of notches as puzzle piece markers that help tailors and sewists match different parts of a garment together accurately. When you see this term on a resume, it could refer to either creating notched lapels on formal wear or working with pattern notches in general garment construction.

Examples in Resumes

Created custom Notch lapels for high-end suit jackets

Developed standardized Notch placement system for pattern matching

Trained junior tailors in proper Notch alignment techniques for precise garment assembly

Typical job title: "Tailors"

Also try searching for:

Pattern Maker Tailor Garment Constructor Bespoke Tailor Suit Maker Fashion Designer Alterations Specialist

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you handle complex notch alignment in multi-piece garments?

Expected Answer: A senior tailor should explain their systematic approach to managing multiple notches across complex patterns, including their quality control process and how they train others in proper alignment techniques.

Q: Describe your experience with different types of notched lapels and when to use each style.

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of various notch styles (peak, standard notch, shawl) and explain how to choose appropriate styles based on client body type and garment purpose.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What is your process for marking and matching notches during garment construction?

Expected Answer: Should explain their method for ensuring accurate notch placement, including tools used and verification steps.

Q: How do you adjust notch placement when altering a pattern size?

Expected Answer: Should describe how they maintain proper proportions and adjust notch positions when scaling patterns up or down.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the purpose of notches in pattern making?

Expected Answer: Should explain that notches are matching points that help align pattern pieces correctly during garment assembly.

Q: How do you transfer pattern notches to fabric?

Expected Answer: Should describe basic marking methods like using tailor's chalk, marking paper, or thread to transfer notch positions accurately.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic notch marking and matching
  • Simple pattern reading
  • Basic garment construction
  • Understanding of basic notch types

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Complex notch alignment
  • Pattern modification
  • Multiple garment styles
  • Quality control procedures

Senior (5+ years)

  • Advanced pattern creation
  • Training and supervision
  • Complex garment construction
  • Custom notch design

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Unable to explain basic notch matching principles
  • Lack of experience with pattern reading
  • No knowledge of different notch types and their uses
  • Poor understanding of garment construction basics