Career comparison
Wood Model Maker vs. Wood Patternmaker
Side-by-side pay, training, growth and day-to-day duties to help you choose between two related careers.
Wood model makers earn more at the median ($56,550 vs. $49,630), while wood model makers usually get to work faster (Months to years of practice of training). Wood model makers build precise wood models and prototypes for designers and engineers. Wood patternmakers build wooden patterns that foundries use to make casting molds.
Pay data: BLS OEWS, May 2025 · Outlook: BLS 2025–35 · Checked October 15, 2026
| Wood Model Maker | Wood Patternmaker | |
|---|---|---|
| Median pay | $56,550 ($27.19/hr) | $49,630 ($23.86/hr) |
| Pay range (10th–90th) | $34,800 – $98,050 | $37,600 – $83,780 |
| Job growth, 2025–35 | -3.3% (a projected decline) | -2.0% (a projected decline) |
| Openings per year | 100 | 100 |
| Typical entry education | High school diploma or equivalent | High school diploma or equivalent |
| Training time | Months to years of practice | Months to years of training |
| Key credential | Woodworking certificate | Woodworking certificate |
| Work setting | Model makers work in model shops, design firms and studios.. | Patternmakers work in pattern shops.. |
What each job does
Wood Model Maker
- Read drawings
- Build models
- Machine wood parts
- Use CNC and laser cutters
- Finish models
Wood Patternmaker
- Read drawings
- Add shrink and draft
- Cut and shape wood
- Build core boxes
- Seal patterns
How they’re similar
Both careers involve hands-on work, creative work, working independently, and indoor work. Both are part of the mechanics, maintenance & manufacturing field, so many skills transfer between them.
Which should you choose?
Choose wood model maker if…
- I love building models
- I’m creative
- I’m precise
Choose wood patternmaker if…
- I love woodworking
- I like precision
- I like rare skills
Still torn? Take the Wood Model Maker fit quiz and the Wood Patternmaker fit quiz, or the full Career Match Quiz.
Quick comparisons
Which pays more, wood model maker or wood patternmaker?
Wood Model Makers earn more at the median: $56,550 versus $49,630 for wood patternmakers, based on BLS May 2025 data.
Which takes less time to train for?
Wood Model Makers typically train faster (Months to years of practice) than wood patternmakers (Months to years of training).
Which career has better job growth?
BLS projects wood patternmakers to grow -2.0% from 2025–35, compared with -3.3% for wood model makers.