Beginning Sewing 1

This course provides an introduction to basic sewing techniques, sewing equipment, and sewing machine operations. Students will learn body measurements, pattern reading and layout, and appropriate fabric selection for different garments.

Students will create samples of a variety of sewing techniques and construct a simple pair of pants using a commercial pattern.

• Demonstrate knowledge of basic sewing
• Analyze textile characteristics, performance, and care; select fabrics for appropriate end-use
• Analyze body measurements and proportions and choose an appropriate pattern
• Lay out a commercial pattern correctly for efficient use of fabric
• Follow the instruction guide on a commercial pattern
• Construct a pair of pants using proper techniques and seam finishes appropriate to fabric and garment

• 60” wide fabric: Jersey knit, spandex blends, sweatshirt fleece, etc.
• Fabric yardage by size: XS — 1 ⅝ yds; S — 2 ⅛ yds; M — 2 ¼ yds; L — 2 ⅜ yds; XL — 2 ¾ yds; XXL — 3 yds
• All-purpose polyester thread that matches fabric (Coats & Clark Dual Duty XP or Gutermann Sew All recommended)
• 2 ¾ yds of ⅜” wide elastic
• 1 ⅜ yds of 1” wide elastic
• 1 ¼ yds of ½” wide twill tape
• ⅞ yd of 1” wide elastic (optional for ankles)

Beginning Sewing 2

This course extends sewing skills gained in Beginning Sewing 1. Students will continue creating samples of sewing techniques and construct a duffel bag or backpack using a commercial pattern.

• Demonstrate knowledge of basic sewing
• Lay out a commercial pattern correctly for efficient use of fabric
• Follow the instruction guide on a commercial pattern
• Construct a bag using proper techniques and seam finishes appropriate to fabric and project

• ⅝ yd of 60” wide fabric (canvas, twill, cordura, denim, or other heavy-weight fabrics)
• All-purpose polyester thread that matches fabric (Coats & Clark Dual Duty XP or Gutermann Sew All recommended)
• 2 ¼ yds of 2” webbing
• 20” non-separating zipper that matches or coordinates with fabric (a 20” purse zipper may also work)
• 9” non-separating zipper that matches or coordinates with fabric

Beginning Sewing 3

This course extends skills gained in Beginning Sewing 1 and 2. Students will continue learning proper sewing machine use and will learn how to thread and adjust tension for a domestic serger.

Students will finish creating technique samples and compile a completed sewing glossary. This course allows students to complete a sewing project of their choosing; the project must include a zipper and use an easy pattern approved by the instructor.

• Demonstrate knowledge of basic serger parts and operate the machine correctly
• Compile a comprehensive glossary of all sewing samples
• Lay out a commercial pattern correctly for efficient use of fabric
• Follow the instruction guide on a commercial pattern
• Construct a garment/project using proper techniques and seam finishes appropriate to fabric and design

Students are required to provide fabric and supplies for the independent project. Because this project is self-selected, materials must be calculated individually (fabric, thread, and a zipper are required). Patterns are available for student use in the classroom, and students will have the opportunity to discuss project plans with the instructor in advance.

A minimum of 5 students must register for the class to run.