Textiles, garments and related trades n.e.c.

examines sketches and draws out patterns for the manufacture of garments and upholstery

AI-powered tools like Adobe Illustrator with generative features or CLO 3D can assist in drafting and iterating patterns digitally, reducing manual drawing time while human judgment finalises fit and design.

sets up and operates power and hand looms and machines to weave fibre into fabrics and carpets

AI can help optimise loom settings and detect fabric defects via computer vision in industrial contexts, but setting up and operating hand or power looms in craft settings remains largely manual.

knits garments and other articles form yarn by machine or by hand

Industrial knitting machines can be programmed with AI-assisted pattern software, but hand knitting and small-scale machine operation still require significant human skill and oversight.

marks out, cuts and sews corsets, light clothing and hoods and aprons and makes and repairs sails, boat covers and other canvas goods

AI can assist with pattern generation digitally, but the physical cutting, sewing, and handling of canvas materials requires skilled manual dexterity that robots cannot yet replicate in craft settings.

shapes and steams fabric into hats or hoods and gives final shape to fibre helmets and felt hats

Shaping, steaming, and finishing hats and helmets requires precise tactile judgment and physical manipulation that AI cannot replicate in traditional millinery or craft hat-making.

performs other tasks not elsewhere classified, for example, forms mounts for wigs, makes buttons, shapes hat brims, and staples seams of industrial gloves

Highly varied niche craft tasks such as wig mount forming, button making, and glove stapling are too diverse and manual for current AI or robotic systems to handle in craft-scale production.

fills and stuffs cushions, quilts, soft toys and furniture

Filling and stuffing cushions, quilts, and furniture is a tactile, hands-on physical task that current AI-driven automation cannot perform in small-scale or craft production environments.