Beginning Sewing

Beginning Sewing 1
This course will provide an introduction to basic sewing techniques, sewing equipment and operations of a sewing machine. Body measurements, reading and layout of a pattern and appropriate fabric selection for different garments will be covered. Students will create samples of a variety of sewing techniques and construct a simple pair of pants using a commercial pattern.
Objectives:

• Demonstrate knowledge of basic sewing.
• Analyze the characteristics, performance, and care of specific textiles and select fabrics for appropriate end-use.
• Analyze body measurements and proportions and choose an appropriate pattern.

For the drawstring sweatpants project made in this course, students will be required to purchase the following:

• 60” wide fabric
  • Jersey knit, spandex blends, sweatshirt fleece, etc.
  • 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 are a good starting point
• 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 will extend sewing skills gained in Beginning Sewing 1. Students will continue creating samples of a variety of sewing techniques as well as construct a duffel bag or backpack using a commercial pattern.
Objectives:

• Demonstrate knowledge of basic sewing.
• Demonstrate the ability to correctly layout a commercial pattern for efficient use of fabric.
• Ability to follow the instruction guide correctly on a commercial pattern.
• Produce a bag using proper construction techniques and seam finishes that are appropriate for fabric type and garment.

For the zipper duffel bag project made in this course, students will be required to purchase the following:

• ⅝ yd of 60” wide fabric
  • Canvas, twill, cordura, denim, or other heavy-weight fabrics would be appropriate
• All-purpose polyester thread that matches fabric
  • Coats & Clark Dual Duty XP or Gutermann Sew All thread are a good starting point
• 2 ¼ yd of 2” webbing
• 20” non-separating zipper that matches or coordinates with fabric
  • Could use a 20” purse zipper instead
• 9” non-separating zipper that matches or coordinates with fabric

Beginning Sewing 3
This course will provide an extension of sewing skills gained in Beginning Sewing 1 and 2. Students will continue learning proper use of sewing machines and will learn how to properly thread and adjust tension for a domestic serger. Students will finishing creating samples of a variety of sewing techniques and compile a completed sewing glossary. This course allows for students to complete a sewing project of their own choosing, but it must have a zipper and be an easy pattern approved by the instructor.
Objectives:

• Demonstrate knowledge of the basic serger parts and how to operate the machine correctly.
• Compile a comprehensive glossary of all sewing samples.
• Demonstrate the ability to correctly layout a commercial pattern for efficient use of fabric.
• Ability to follow the instruction guide correctly on a commercial pattern.
• Produce a garment of your choosing using proper construction techniques and seam finishes
  that are appropriate for fabric type and garment.

Students will be required to provide fabric and supplies for the sewing project in this course. Because this project is independent, materials used will need to be calculated independently. Be sure to get the appropriate amount of fabric, thread, and a zipper. There are patterns available for student use in the classroom. You will have the opportunity to discuss this with your  instructor in advance if you take Beginning Sewing 2 prior to this course. 

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