OverviewAbout this course

    Begin your career in the fashion industry with the Certificate III in Apparel, Fashion and Textiles. Express your creativity and construct a designer garment by aligning and sewing patterns. Gain practical skills in pattern making, sewing techniques and apply more complex techniques such as creating darts and pleats.

    Do you dream of crafting your own fashion line or stepping into the thriving fashion industry? This qualification provides you with the essential skills and knowledge to kickstart your journey, transforming your passion into professional success.

    OutcomesWhat you'll gain

    Learn new skills

    Through a mix of theory and practical coursework, learn to:

    • Identify a fabric or textile from its visual and physical properties
    • Use a sewing machine to sew pattern pieces according to the fabric and product type
    • Control the speed of a sewing machine and use an industrial machine confidently
    • Apply fashion design principles to create your own designer garments
    • Use sustainable practices when producing textiles, clothing and footwear
    • Create mood boards and fashion illustrations to visually present design, colour and textile ideas

    Gain practical experience

    Build your experience and get practical skills in: 

    • Using and handling different fabrics and textiles
    • Operating industrial sewing machines
    • Designing and crafting your own garments
    • Applying quality standards and supporting sustainable practices in apparel and textile design and production
    • Communicating effectively using industry-relevant language and terminology

    Develop your professional confidence

    Develop the qualities you need to get ahead in this industry:

    • Creativity
    • Attention to detail
    • An aptitude for practical tasks
    • Adaptability

    Career pathways

    This qualification could help you prepare for roles like:

    • Trainee Seamstress
    • Trainee Pattern Maker
    • Junior Design Assistant

    SuitabilityInternational entry requirements

    At TAFE NSW each course has entry requirements. These help us to make sure that your course choice is right for you and help determine your suitability for a course. We want you to be confident in your decision and successful in your studies.

    Fees and locationsStarting dates, course fees and locations

    As an international student, you can choose from a range of different courses, offered at various locations. Experience vibrant spaces, libraries, cafes and gyms, as well as places to make friends and socialise with other students.

    Additional costs

    Additional costs for uniforms, equipment, textbooks and materials (if applicable) range from $300 - $1,000 AUD per course.

    Structure and unitsWhat you will study

    At the start of your course, you will receive your timetable. You will need to study all core units and a range of additional units.


    Total number of units = 18 6 core units
    12 elective units, consisting of at least 6 units from Group A 6 additional units from Groups A, B, any endorsed Training Package or accredited course all units must be relevant to the work outcome.

    Core units are the required units that you must complete.

    • Work safelyMSMWHS200

    • Apply quality standardsMSS402055

    • Sew materials by machineMSTAT2005

    • Identify and handle fabrics and textilesMSTGN2023

    • Support sustainable practice in apparel and textile design and productionMSTGN3018

    • Interact with others in an apparel and textile design and production environmentMSTGN3019

    PathwaysContinue your studies

    At TAFE NSW, you can develop your skills or build your expertise by studying a single course. You can also continue your studies with one of the following pathway options:


    Vocational study pathway

    Enrol in a range of TAFE NSW courses designed to help you kick-start your career and education goals. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.


    TAFE NSW degree pathway

    From certificates to diplomas, to a TAFE NSW degree, continue your studies with us to help build your success. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.


    TAFE NSW - university partnership pathways

    TAFE NSW has partnerships with a number of Australian universities. These universities offer guaranteed entry and credit transfer to eligible students. How much credit you are eligible for varies depending on the course and university you choose. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.


    Other university pathways

    You may gain entry to another university using your TAFE NSW qualifications. Acceptance and the amount of credit transfer may vary depending on the university and course studies. Check your credit eligibility.


    Keep learning with TAFE NSW

    You are able to package two or more TAFE NSW courses together. This means you can plan your studies to achieve your career goals. When you apply for a TAFE NSW vocational pathway, you can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.


    ServicesCampus facilities and support services

    TAFE NSW provides support services across all campus locations. Whatever your needs or circumstances, we have the resources, counselling and facilities to support you while you are studying.

    We offer a range of support services including: 

    • TAFE NSW Disability Support Service 
    • TAFE NSW Language, Literacy, and Numeracy (LLN) support  
    • TAFE NSW Careers, Counselling, and Pathways Service  
    • Smarthinking – online access to a tutor 
    • LinkedIn Learning – an online resource that offers innovative courses and tutorials to improve your personal and professional skills

    We're here to help

    If you have more questions about your course choice or study plans contact us today.

    Contact TAFE NSW International