1.
Select Sewing Tools According to Categories and Uses
Sewing tools are grouped based on what they do:
● Measuring tools: e.g., tape measure, ruler.
● Marking tools: e.g., tailor's chalk, fabric markers.
● Cutting tools: e.g., scissors, shears, seam ripper.
● Sewing tools: e.g., hand sewing needles, pins, thimbles.
2. Care of Sewing Tools
● Clean tools after use.
● Store sharp tools safely (e.g., in cases or pin cushions).
● Keep scissors sharp and dry.
● Replace broken or rusty tools.
3. Types of Sewing Machines
● Domestic (used at home): manual, electric, electronic.
● Industrial (used in factories): heavy-duty machines for mass production.
4. Features of Different Types of Sewing Machines
● Manual: hand-operated.
● Electric: powered by a motor.
● Electronic: advanced, with programmed stitches.
● Automatic/computerized: can remember settings and stitch patterns.
● Swing needle: needle can move side to side (for zigzag stitching).
5. Factors Affecting the Choice of Sewing Machines
● Cost: how expensive it is.
● Features: what stitches or functions it has.
● Serviceability: how easy it is to fix or get serviced.
6. Parts of the Sewing Machine
Some main parts include:
● Stop motion screw: stops the needle when winding a bobbin.
● Presser foot: holds the fabric down.
● Balance wheel: manually moves the needle up and down.
7. Skills in Using Sewing Machines and Equipment
● Operating the machine smoothly.
● Recognizing and fixing common faults.
● Threading the machine properly.
8. Care of Sewing Machines
● Clean off dust and lint regularly.
● Oil the machine (if needed) to keep it running smoothly.
● Store in a dry place.
● Service the machine when necessary.
9. Types of Pressing Equipment and Tools
● Irons: dry iron, steam iron, spray iron, steam press.
● Boards: ironing board, sleeve board, needle board.
● Special tools: tailor’s ham (for pressing curved areas), seam roll, press mitts, press
cloth (to protect fabric).
10. Care of Pressing Equipment
● Clean the soleplate of irons regularly.
● Empty water from steam irons after use.
● Store boards and tools properly.
11. Use of Various Types of Pressing Equipment
● Use the right type of iron for different fabrics.
● Use special tools like seam rolls for narrow areas like sleeves.
12. Difference Between Pressing and Ironing
● Pressing: lifting and lowering the iron on the fabric without dragging it (used for shaping
garments).
● Ironing: moving the iron back and forth over flat fabric to remove wrinkles
1. Demonstrate Techniques for Taking Accurate Body Measurements
● Correct posture: Stand up straight and relaxed.
● Use of tools: Use a flexible measuring tape.
● Measurement positions: Measure important points like bust, waist, hips, and arm
length correctly.
Definition:
● Body measurement: Taking the size of different parts of the body to make clothes that
fit well.
2. List Equipment and Tools Used in Pattern Drafting
● Measuring tools: tape measure, ruler.
● Shaping tools: French curve, hip curve.
● Marking tools: pencils, tracing wheel, tailor’s chalk.
Definition:
● Pattern drafting: Drawing the shapes of different parts of a garment based on body
measurements.
3. Draft Simple Patterns
● Create basic patterns for:
○ Bodice (upper part of garment)
○ Skirt
○ Sleeves
○ Patch pockets
○ Inseam pockets
Definition:
● Simple pattern: A basic outline used to cut fabric pieces.
4. Draft Shaped Facings
● Make facings for necklines and armholes so the garment edges look neat and finished.
Definition:
● Facing: A piece of fabric sewn inside a garment to finish the edge.
5. Draft Simple Collars
Draft patterns for basic types of collars:
● Convertible collar: Can be worn open or closed.
● Mandarin collar (neck band): A short stand-up collar.
● Peter Pan collar: A flat, rounded collar.
Definition:
● Collar: The part of a garment that encircles the neck.
6. Adapt Basic Block Patterns to Create Different Styles
● Blouse: Change bodice blocks into blouses or shirts.
● Skirt: Change basic skirt into styles like A-line (flared), gathered, or pleated skirts.
● Sleeve: Adapt sleeves into long sleeves or puffed sleeves.
Definition:
● Block pattern (or basic block): A simple pattern with no style added, used as a starting
point for designing clothes.
7. Adapt Skirt to Shorts
● Modify the basic skirt pattern to create shorts.
Definition:
● Pattern adaptation: Changing a basic pattern to design different clothing styles.
1. Factors Determining the Selection of Commercial Patterns
When choosing a commercial (store-bought) sewing pattern, you should think about:
● Figure type: Choose a pattern that matches your body shape (example: petite, tall, plus
size).
● Style: Choose a style that you like and that suits your needs (example: casual, formal).
● Size: Make sure the pattern is available in your correct size.
Definition:
● Commercial pattern: A ready-made pattern sold to help people cut and sew garments
easily.
2. Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Commercial Patterns
● Advantages:
○ Saves time in drafting.
○ Has clear instructions.
○ Available in many styles and sizes.
● Disadvantages:
○ May need adjustments to fit properly.
○ Can be costly.
○ Limited design flexibility unless altered.
3. Identify and Interpret Pattern Symbols
Common pattern symbols and their meanings:
● Grainline: Shows which way the pattern should be placed on the fabric.
● Place to fold: Tells you where to place the pattern edge along a fold of the fabric.
● Notches: Small marks to help match up pieces when sewing.
Definition:
● Pattern symbols: Special marks printed on patterns to guide you in cutting and sewing.
4. Make Basic Alterations and Adaptations to Commercial Patterns for
Individual Use
You might need to change the pattern slightly to fit better:
● Layout: Adjust how the pattern pieces are placed on fabric.
● Cutting: Modify the cutting line for better fit.
● Transfer of markings: Move important pattern marks onto your fabric correctly using
tracing paper or chalk.
Definition:
● Alteration: A small change made to improve the fit or style of a garment.
5. Use Commercial Patterns
Steps when using a commercial pattern:
● Read the instructions carefully.
● Choose the right size based on measurements.
● Cut out the pattern pieces.
● Lay the pattern on fabric following grainline and fold lines.
● Transfer pattern markings onto fabric.
● Sew following the step-by-step instructions.
1. Classify Stitches
Stitches are grouped into three types:
● Temporary stitches: Easy to remove (example: even tacking).
● Permanent stitches: Strong stitches that stay in (example: backstitch, hemming).
● Decorative stitches: Used to decorate garments (example: chain stitch).
Definition:
● Stitch: A loop or knot made by sewing thread into fabric.
2. Choose and Construct Stitches
● Use temporary stitches when holding fabric pieces together before sewing.
● Use permanent stitches when sewing the final seams.
● Use decorative stitches to add style or decoration.
3. Choose, Construct and Finish Seams
● Seam: Where two pieces of fabric are sewn together.
● Types of seam finishes:
○ Open seam: Seams pressed open on each side.
○ French seam: Neat seam where raw edges are hidden inside.
○ Double-stitched seam: Two rows of stitching for extra strength.
General rules for seams:
● Use the correct seam for the fabric type.
● Press seams properly after sewing.
4. Apply Different Methods for Controlling Fullness
These are ways to make fabric fit the shape of the body:
● Gathering: Pulling fabric together using loose stitches.
● Easing: Slightly gathering fabric to fit without folds.
● Shirring: Gathering fabric with rows of elastic stitching.
● Pleats:
○ Knife pleats: Folds facing the same direction.
○ Box pleats: Two folds facing away from each other.
○ Inverted pleats: Two folds facing towards each other.
● Darts: Triangular shapes sewn to fit the body.
● Tucks: Small, stitched folds for decoration.
5. Apply Different Methods for Finishing Raw Edges
Raw edges can fray and must be finished neatly:
● Hemming: Folding and stitching the edge.
● Bindings: Covering the edge with a strip of fabric.
● Piping: A decorative cord covered with fabric, sewn into seams.
● Casing: A tunnel made in fabric to insert elastic or a drawstring.
6. Prepare and Apply Facing
● Facing: A piece of fabric sewn onto the edge (like a neckline or armhole) to make it neat
and strong.
● Two types:
○ Shaped facing: Made to match the edge exactly.
○ Straight facing: A straight strip of fabric.
7. Construct Openings
Openings are needed to put on or remove garments easily:
● Types of openings:
○ Continuous placket: Simple overlapping opening.
○ Faced opening: Neatly finished with a facing piece.
○ Bound opening: Finished with a binding.
8. Identify Fastenings Suitable for Different Openings
Fastenings when edges meet:
● Loops and buttons
● Hooks and eyes
● Zippers
● Eyelets and laces
Fastenings when edges overlap:
● Buttons and buttonholes (hand-stitched or machine-made)
● Press studs (snaps)
● Velcro
● Zippers
9. Attach Fastenings
When adding fastenings:
● Prepare the area neatly (example: strengthen with interfacing if needed).
● Place the fastening in the correct spot.
● Attach it securely following the instructions for that type.
1. Identify Waist Finishes
Waist finishes are ways to finish the top of skirts, pants, or shorts:
● Elasticised waistband: Waistband with elastic inside for stretch and comfort.
● Faced and shaped waistband: Waistband shaped to fit the body, with a neat inside
facing.
● Straight waistband: A simple, flat waistband with no shaping.
2. Apply Waist Finishes Appropriately
● Use elasticised waistbands for easy-to-wear clothing like casual skirts or shorts.
● Use faced and shaped waistbands for more fitted skirts or pants.
● Use straight waistbands for simple, structured designs.
3. Construct and Apply Pockets
Types of pockets:
● Patch pocket: A piece of fabric sewn on the outside of the garment.
● Inseam pocket: A pocket hidden inside the side seams of the garment.
Definition:
● Pocket: A small pouch sewn onto or into a garment for carrying things.
4. Construct and Insert Sleeves
Types of sleeves:
● Kimono sleeve: Cut as one piece with the garment body — no armhole seam.
● Set-in sleeve: Sewn separately into a shaped armhole.
● Puff sleeve: A sleeve gathered at the top or bottom to create fullness.
5. Identify Different Types of Collars
Types of collars:
● Flat collar: Lies flat against the garment (example: Peter Pan collar).
● Rolled collar: Stands up a little, then folds over.
● Stand collar: Stands straight up without folding (example: Mandarin collar).
Definition:
● Collar: A piece around the neck of a garment that can stand up, fold over, or lie flat.
6. Construct and Attach Collars
Examples of collars to construct and attach:
● Convertible collar: Can be worn open or closed (like on a shirt).
● Mandarin or neck band collar: A short, stand-up collar without folds.
● Peter Pan collar: A small, flat, rounded collar.
7. Select and Use Appropriate Support Fabrics for Garment Construction
Support fabrics give extra strength and shape to garments:
● Interfacing: Added between fabric layers to stiffen areas like collars or cuffs.
● Lining: A soft inner layer that makes a garment neater and more comfortable.
● Shoulder pads: Used to add shape to shoulders in jackets or dresses.
8. Discuss Guidelines and Techniques for Handling Special Fabrics
Some fabrics need special care when sewing:
● Knit fabrics: Stretchy — use stretch stitches and handle gently to avoid stretching out.
● Plaids and stripes: Patterns must be matched carefully at seams.
● Floral designs and patterns: Watch for large designs that need centering or matching.
Techniques when working with special fabrics:
● Laying out: Place pattern pieces carefully to match designs.
● Cutting: Use sharp scissors or rotary cutters for clean edges.
● Sewing: Adjust machine tension and stitch type for best results.
● Pressing: Use the right heat setting and press carefully to avoid damage.
1. Definition of Soft Furnishings
Soft furnishings are decorative and functional items made from fabric that are used to
decorate and improve the comfort of a home.
2. Identify Soft Furnishings
Examples of soft furnishings include:
● Drapes (heavy window coverings)
● Curtains (lighter window coverings)
● Valance (a short piece of fabric across the top of a window)
● Cushions (soft pillows for chairs or sofas)
● Appliance covers (fabric covers for kitchen appliances)
● Throws (small blankets for sofas or beds)
● Bedspreads (large covers for beds)
3. State Factors Influencing the Choice of Soft Furnishings
When choosing soft furnishings, consider:
● The choice of room (living room, bedroom, kitchen, etc.)
● The use of the room (formal, casual, high-traffic)
● The colour scheme (match colours with walls, floors, or furniture)
● The style and design theme (modern, traditional, bohemian, etc.)
4. Estimate the Amount of Fabric for Different Items
● Measure the size of the area (window, table, bed, etc.)
● Allow extra for seams, hems, pleats, and shrinkage.
● Calculate quantities carefully to avoid running out of fabric.
Example:
For curtains, measure the width and height of the window and multiply by 2 to allow for gathers.
5. Choose Fabrics Suitable for Soft Furnishings
Choose fabric based on:
● Style (formal or casual)
● Elements of design (pattern, texture, colour)
● Use of the room (durable fabric for high-use areas)
Examples:
● Heavy cotton or velvet for drapes
● Light cotton or polyester for curtains
● Durable fabric for cushions
6. Identify Suitable Notions for Making Soft Furnishings
Notions are small items used in sewing to help finish or decorate soft furnishings.
Examples of notions:
● Tassels (decorative hanging threads)
● Braids (narrow decorative strips)
● Fringe (loose threads at the edge)
● Tape (used for strengthening)
● Hooks (for hanging curtains)
7. Construct Simple Soft Furnishings
Simple soft furnishings you can make include:
● Scatter cushions
● Place mats
● Table cloths
● Wall hangings
● Drapes and curtains
● Valances
● Appliance covers
Basic techniques for construction:
● Cutting fabric accurately
● Sewing straight seams
● Adding decorations (like trims or tassels)
● Pressing finished items neatly