SHEPHERDVILLE COLLEGE

Talojongon, Tigaon, Camarines Sur

College of Education Department
First Semester
AY 2023– 2024

“EXCELLENCE IN TRUTH IN THE SERVICE OF GOD AND COUNTRY”

DRESSMAKING/TAILORING
IRENE E. BELLEZA
Instructor

COMPETENCY
LO 1. Identify sewing tools and equipment and their uses
TLE_HEDM7/8UT0a-b-1
TERM: PRELIM

Time Frame/Number of Hours – 3 hours

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 MODULE - SEWING TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT

INTRODUCTION

This module focuses on the classification and uses of the different

tools and equipment used in dressmaking. Equipped with this knowledge
may help learner to properly use sewing tools and equipment, familiarized
its functions as well.

Good tools are important in sewing. Your sewing machine and your
sewing aids should be selected as carefully as possible for good performance
and long-lasting satisfaction. We know that appropriate tools make work
easier. This lesson will provide you knowledge and skills in using sewing
tools and equipment correctly. To make the work light and easy, you should
have a complete set of sewing tools in your sewing box and a friendly sewing
machine located in a sewing spot at home or at a sewing area of your room.

OBJECTIVES/ LEARNING
OUTCOMES

2.1 Identify sewing tools and equipment

2.2 Classify sewing machines

2.3 Select appropriate measuring tools

DEFINATION OF TERMS

ALTERING - changing portion of a garment so that it fits the body.

CUTTING TOOLS - a cutting implement; a tool for cutting.

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FABRIC - the cloth used in making garments.

MEASURING TOOLS - an instruments used for obtaining quantities,

dimensions or forces of real world objects.

SEWING MACHINE - a textile machine used to stitch fabric, cards and

other material with thread.

SEWING TOOLS - instruments that aid in accomplishing a sewing

task

INFORMATION SHEET

MEASURING TOOLS

Tape Measure
A flexible measuring device used in taking body
measurements. The front has the measurement of 150
centimeters and 60 inches on the other side. Fiberglass
tape is commonly used by dressmakers.

Sewing Gauge
A small ruler with a sliding guide and is about six inches
long. This gauge is used for measurements at hem lines,
button holes and areas where other small measurements
require checking, such as pleats and tucks. The gauge is
usually made of metal or plastic.

Rulers
A ruler measuring 12 inches or even 18 inches, either
clear or solid. It is a useful tool to have for measuring and
drawing straight seam lines and cutting lines. It also aids
in connecting lines. A clear ruler is also a good tool for
marking buttonholes.

Yardstick
A yardstick is made of smooth, shellacked hardwood
or metal. It is used for marking hemlines and checking
grainlines when laying out the pattern.

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L-square
The tailor square or "L" is used to transfer measurements
to the draft pattern. It also divides the garment into the
desired measurement. It has perfect squares and is useful
in making straight lines and numbers. It can also function
as a tape measure.
It has two arms connected perpendicularly.

a.The longer arm is twenty-four (24) inches long.

b. The shorter arm is fourteen (14) inches long.

French Curve
This is used to shape the depth of the neckhole and
armhole of the pattern.

CUTTING TOOLS
Cutting tools are instruments that serve well if properly maintained. Sharp
cutting tools make clean cuts and well-defined notches and they do not
damage fabric. On the other hand, dull tools slow the cutting process, and
make your hand and wrist tire easily. Sewing cutting tools should not be
used for other household task. Cutting tools must be sharpened regularly
and the joints are oiled occasionally for better use.

Bent-handled dressmaker’s shears

These are made of quality steel and hold a sharp cutting
edge. The blades move easily and cut smoothly along the
entire length and the points should come together. Shears
have the length of 7- 12 inches and are satisfactory for
most apparel fabrics.

a. All steels, chrome-plated shears are for heavy duty

cutting
b. Stainless steel blades and plastic handles are fine for lightweight
fabrics
c. A serrated edge shears give maximum cutting control and is used
for synthetic fibers and slippery knits

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Pinking Shears
This is popular in zigzagging or scalloped edge or for
seam finishes. This is used to finish seams and raw edges and
to create decorative edges on many types of fabric. It cuts a
ravel-resistant edge. This is not satisfactory for straight
cutting.

Cutting scissors

a. Trimming scissor

It is 3-4 inches long. It is used for trimmings, clipping

threads and snipping slashes.

b. Embroidery scissor

It has 4-5 inches finely tapered blades. Both points are

sharp for use in working with fine details in delicate fabrics
and in embroidery work.

c. Buttonhole scissor
This is intended for making buttonholes.

Thread Clippers
Thread clippers are a handy little spring loaded cutting tool
that allows for the snipping of threads. These clippers are
specifically used to snip threads and they are not designed to
cut fabric.

Seam Ripper
Seam rippers are specifically designed for ripping out
stitches from seams, either as a result of an error or during
alterations. They should be used carefully to prevent damage
to the fabric.

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Rotary Cutter and Mat
It is an adaptation of the giant rotary cutter used by the
garment industry. It works like a pizza cutter and can be used
by left or right-handed sewers. The rotary cutter is available in
different sizes with different blades. When using a rotary
cutter, work on a cutting mat to protect the blade and the
cutting surface.

MARKING TOOLS
Marking tools are required for transferring pattern markings to
garment fabric pieces and for making alterations on garments.

Chalk Pencils/Dressmaker pencil

This is available in white or pastel shades.

This chalk pencil is used to make fine lines on fabric. It has an

erasing brush at one end.

Liquid Marking Pen

Liquid marking pens come in two types. There is one that
washes out and one that fades after 48 hours. Those that wash
out should not be used on fabric that show water marks. The
mark should be removed before pressing the fabric.

Tailor’s Chalk
This is essential as a marker for use on materials.
Tailor‘s chalk is available in a range of colors and is Removed
by brushing.

Wax chalk
This is available in black or white and is used for woolen
fabrics. Wax can be removed by pressing.

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Tracing Wheel
There are two types of tracing wheels, those with a serrated edge
and those with a smooth edge. The serrated edge wheel produces
dots on the fabric and is suitable for most types of fabrics. The
smooth edge wheel is best for delicate fabrics and unlike the serrated
edge will not pierce more delicate fabrics. The smooth edge wheel creates a
solid line.

Dressmaker’s Carbon Paper

Dressmaker‘s carbon paper also called dressmaker‘s tracing paper

is a specially waxed carbon paper that transfer‘s the tracing wheel‘s
markings to the fabric. A color of tracing paper should be chosen
that is close to the color of the fabric. Different brands of tracing paper have
different instructions; therefore, the instructions for the particular brand
that is purchased should be followed.

PINNING AND SEWING TOOL

Pincushion
A pincushion holds the straight pins and needles while
working to prevent accidents.

Hand Needle
Used in making temporary stitches and buttonholes. Sizes of 7 to
10 are for general hand sewing.

Sewing Needle Threader

It aids in putting the thread to the needle. It consists of
two parts. The handle and the wire. The end of the wire
that is away from the holder is folded. Place the folded
wire of the needle threader through the eye of the sewing
needle.

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 Thimble
A small hard pitted cup worn for protection on the finger that
pushes the needle in sewing.

MATERIALS

Fabric
The Fabric is the cloth used in making garments. The
plain cotton fabrics, flour sack or catcha is the most
appropriate material for beginners because these are
very easy to handle.

Thread

The thread is used in assembling or constructing the parts of the garment.

Threads vary in sizes. Heavy fabrics need stronger threads. Threads should
have the same color with that of the fabric used.

Types of Sewing Machines

Well-selected sewing machine is essential for achieving good results. It should be used
correctly in accordance with the job requirements.

1. Lockstitch Sewing Machine. This is usually used in homes and sometimes in

school. This is also called ―Domestic Sewing Machine‖. It is run by foot and may also
be converted to electric power machine.

2. Hi-Speed Lockstitch Sewing Machine. This is sometimes called „straight

stitching machine‖ or industrial sewing machine. It has automatic lubrication and is
used by tailors and dressmakers.

3. Over Edging Machine. Other companies call it

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 ―small machine‖. It finishes the raw edges of the pattern for construction.

4. Embroidery Machine. This is used in making fancy stitches and in making different
kinds of embroidery stitches on fabrics for the Barong Tagalog, pillow cases, linen,
and other novelty items.

5. Button Holer Machine. This is used in making buttonholes on garments.

6.Button Attachment Machine. This is used in attaching buttons to the garments.

7.Double Needle Machine. This is used in the construction of the different kinds of
clothing especially for the inseam, outseam and side seam.

8. Bartacking Machine. This is used in

reinforcing the opening and closing of pockets

Two Major Parts of the Lockstitch Sewing

Machine The two major parts of the lock stitch
sewing machine are the upper and lower parts.

The Upper Parts is composed of:

1. Head is the complete sewing machine without a cabinet

or stand.
2. Arm is the curve part of the head containing mechanism
for operating the needle.
3. Bed is the flat portion of the machine and beneath is the feed dog where it is mounted, and
the shuttle and lower thread are placed.

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Parts of the Sewing Machine in the Arm
1. Spool Pin is the thread holder.
2. Thread Guide keeps the thread in position.
3. Thread Take up Lever releases the thread and interlocks with the bobbin thread.
4. Presser bar lifter moves the presser foot.
5. Tension controls the looseness and tightness of stitches.
6. Needle Bar holds the needle in place.
7. Needle Clamp holds and tightens the needle.
8. Presser Foot holds the fabric in place while sewing.
9. Needle is a slender tool attached in the needle clamp used for sewing.
10. Bobbin Winder controls the bobbin while winding thread.
11. Stitch regulator checks the length of the stitches.
12. Balance Wheel sets the mechanism in motion.
13. Belt connects the balance wheel to the drive wheel.
14. Stop Motion Screw hinders moving when loosened and starts .

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 Parts of Sewing Machine under the Bed

1. Feed Dog moves the fabric while sewing.

2. Throat plate is the windows of the feed dog
and it is where the bobbin threads come out.

4. Slide plate is a movable plate that covers the

shuttle and bobbin case.

4. Shuttle holds the bobbin case while sewing.

5. Bobbin is a metal spool for winding thread.
6. Bobbin Case holds the bobbin.

The Lower Parts of the Lock Stitch Sewing Machine

The lower parts of the sewing machine are the cabinet and the stand. The cabinet has
drawers and screw on the hinges for the attachment of the head. The following are the
lower parts of the sewing machine and their uses:

1. Band Wheel leads the balance wheel through the belt connection.
2. Band Wheel Crank moves the band wheel.
3. Pitman Rod holds the treadle to band wheel crank.
4. Belt Guide holds the belt to its place.
5. Belt Shifter removes the belt from the wheel.
6. Dress Guard protects the dress from the wheel.
7. Treadle is where the feet are stationed to drive the band wheel through the pitman rod.
8. Legs support the cabinet of the machine.
9. Cabinet holds the head of the machine by interlocking screw on the hinges.

STUDENTS ASSESSMENT
QUESTIONS
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SAQ2.1 What is the importance of sewing tools and
equipment?

SAQ2.2 Why do we need to learn about dressmaking and

tailoring?

SAQ2.3. What is the importance of dressmaking/tailoring in

your life?

SAQ2.4. How would you differentiate sewing tools from

sewing equipment?
SAQ2.5 Identify the uses and characteristics of each sewing
tools.

Sewing Tools Uses Characteristics Tools Used Properly

A. Measuring Tools
1.
2.
3.
B. Marking Tools
1.
2.
3.
C. Cutting Tools
1.
2.
3.
D. Drafting Tools
1.
2.
3.
E. Pinning Tools
1.

VI. SUMMARY

1. CLASSIFICATION OF SEWING TOOLS

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 ● Measuring tools

● Cutting tools

● Marking tools

● Pinning and sewing tools

● Materials

2. MAIN PARTS OF THE SEWING MACHINE

● Upper part

● Lower part

3. TYPES OF SEWING MACHINE

● Lockstitch Sewing Machine

● Hi-Speed Lockstitch Sewing Machine

● Over Edging Machine

● Embroidery Machine

● Button Attachment Machine

● Double Needle Machine

● Bartacking Machine

VII. REFERENCE

References: K to 12 Basic Education Curriculum Technology and Livelihood

Education Learning Module in Dressmaking/Tailoring Course Grade 7 and
Grade 8 K to 12 Basic Education Curriculum Technology and Livelihood
Education Learning Module in Dressmaking Grade 9 and 10 Sewing
machine Tools and equipment, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G-
6yvVFZ9aY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6scc9UIYUmE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c6lDFVZ9M8k
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PiISio-tXiw

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VIII. EVALUATION

Direction: Read each item carefully and choose the letter of the best answer
from the choices below.
1. A machine that is run by foot which may also be converted to electric
power machine is known as __________.
a. hemmer machine c. high speed over edger
b. lockstitch machine d. over edging machine
2. The mechanism that sets the sewing machine in motion.
a. balance wheel c. belt
b. feed dog d. stitch regulator
3. The part of the sewing machine that controls the looseness and tightness
of Stitches.
a.bobbin c. thread guide
b. presser foot d. upper tension
4. The appropriate cutting tool used in cutting fabrics.
a.Trimming shears c. Pinking shears
b. Dressmaker bent handled shears d. buttonhole scissors

5.A flexible tape with different type of measurements essential for

taking body measurements.
a.ruler c. tape measure
b. yard stick d. hem gauge

6.It measures 12 -18 inches and can be used for drawing straight lines
and cutting lines .
a.yardstick c. button hole scissor
b. ruler d. French curve

7.This is used to shape the depth of the neckhole and arrmhole of the
pattern.
a.French curve c. ruler
b. tape measure d. trimming scissor

8.This is also called ―Domestic Sewing Machine‖.

a.Lockstitch sewing machine c. Double needle sewing machine
b. Hi-speed sewing machine d. Button holer machine

9.A small hard pitted cup worn for protection on the finger that pushes
the needle in sewing.
a.thimble c. sewing gauge
b. seam ripper d. fabric

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10.This is used in reinforcing the opening and closing of pockets
a. Bartacking machine c. Embroidery machine
b. Hi-speed locked machine d. Sewing machine

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