Suggested time: 5 - 10 hours
Prerequisite: None

Level : Introductory

Notes

1.1 To identify the parts of the sewing machine and their functions. (COM)

Using the sewing machine and diagrams, identify and label the parts of the sewing machine.

Describe the function of each part of the sewing machine .

1.2 To apply the basics of operating the sewing machine. (TL)

Describe and demonstrate procedures for operation of the machine. Include:

• winding the bobbin
• threading the machine and bobbin
• replacement of the needle, presser foot, and slide plate
• use of the hand wheel and the movement of the feed dogs
• use of the presser foot
• recognizing the proper stitch and tension
• stitch length and backstitching
• use of different machine stitches
• resolving machine problems

Construct a number of samples and activities to practise operating the machine and its special features.

Mount the sample in notebook or portfolio for reference and review.

1.3 To identify the parts of the serger and their functions. (COM)

Using the serger and diagrams, identify and label the parts of the serger.

Explain the difference between the serger and the sewing machine

Discuss the function of each part of the serger.

Demonstrate problems that may occur when using the serger.

1.4 To apply the basics of operating the serger. (TL)

Describe and demonstrate procedures for operating the serger. Include threading, basic sewing guidelines, chaining off, securing seam ends, etc.

Demonstrate simple serger sewing projects that are quick and creative ways to expand the use of the serger. This may include serging:

• a scarf
• a toque
• placemats
• pillows
• a tool wrap

Then, have the students serge a project.

1.5 To identify small equipment items and their use in constructing sewing projects. (COM)

List and demonstrate the proper use of small equipment used in constructing sewing projects. Include:

• measuring equipment - measuring tape, sewing gauge, hem gauge, etc.
• cutting equipment - shears, pinking shears, rotary cutter, seam ripper, etc.
• marking equipment - tracing paper and wheel, tailor’s chalk, fabric marking pencils, etc.
• straight pins (dressmaker pins), pattern weights
• needles - sewing machine, hand needles, serger needles
• stitches construction aides - glue stick, basting tape, fusible web, fray check.

1.6 To identify pressing equipment and its use when sewing. (COM)

Identify the difference between pressing and ironing.

Describe the importance of pressing as you sew.

List the different pressing equipment and demonstrate how and where to use:

• iron and ironing board
• press cloth
• seam roll and paper strips
• sleeve board
• point press
• tailor’s ham
• needle board
• press mitt.

Outline pressing techniques.

Discuss safety precautions one should use when using pressing equipment. Example: setting the temperature for the type of material.

Demonstrate common mistakes in pressing. Examples:

• melting fabric
• interfacing sticking to iron

• pressing over pins

Discuss signs that indicate that the iron is too hot:

• fabric shine
• wrinkling
• melting fabric

Discuss indicators of the iron is being too cold:

• water leaking from iron
• wrinkles not being removed