Sample Maker / Sewer (Volunteer)

Sample Maker / Sewer (Volunteer)

Organization: Mentor A Promise (MAP)

Program: Thread & Promise

Location: Remote and/or New York City

Type: Volunteer (Unpaid)

About Mentor A Promise

Mentor A Promise (MAP) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting children and youth ages 5–18 experiencing housing instability in New York City. Through mentorship, education, creative expression, and housing initiatives, MAP creates safe, consistent, and empowering spaces where young people can thrive.

Our creative initiative, Thread & Promise, transforms stories of resilience into fashion that embodies sustainability, community, and artistry. We design apparel and accessories that merge ethical craftsmanship with social impact. We are seeking a Sample Maker / Sewer to help bring our designs to life through expert craftsmanship and technical skill.

Role Overview

The Sample Maker / Sewer will produce muslin prototypes, final garment samples, and small production runs for Thread & Promise collections. This role involves translating sketches, patterns, and tech packs into professionally sewn garments that maintain precision, quality, and fit. The ideal candidate combines technical sewing ability with attention to detail and a passion for meaningful, purpose-driven design.

Key Responsibilities

• Construct muslin and final garment samples according to designer specifications
• Work with patterns, tech packs, and design notes to execute high-quality samples
• Collaborate with designers, patternmakers, and production leads to ensure precision and fit consistency
• Assist in refining sewing methods, fabric selection, and finishing details
• Maintain an organized sample library and documentation of production stages
• Support fittings and garment adjustments during prototype development
• Check and respond to emails daily, ensuring all responses are completed within 48 hours
• Take responsibility for performance improvement by identifying efficiencies in sample construction and workflow

Qualifications

• Proven experience in sewing, garment construction, and finishing techniques
• Ability to interpret patterns, technical sketches, and specifications
• Skilled in operating domestic and industrial sewing machines
• Knowledge of fabrics, interfacings, and sustainable materials
• Strong attention to detail, craftsmanship, and time management
• Portfolio or samples of past sewing or prototype work required

Commitment

• Volunteer role, approximately 5–10 hours per week
• Minimum 6-month commitment preferred
• Hybrid role with occasional in-person fittings in New York City

What You’ll Gain

• Opportunity to contribute to a socially conscious fashion brand
• Experience working on limited-edition, mission-driven apparel collections
• Hands-on collaboration with designers and creative directors
• Portfolio expansion with sustainable, purpose-centered work
• Professional references and recommendations

Application Process

Please send your resume, LinkedIn profile, and sewing portfolio (images or videos of sample work) to hr@mentorapromise.org with the subject line Sample Maker / Sewer.

You may also apply directly here: https://forms.gle/ptgy2zBZXJB1q7GV8

Sew with purpose — every stitch tells a story of resilience, creativity, and hope.