UPMSP High School Tailoring study plan

Identify and name every tool in a basic tailoring kit (measuring tape, seam ripper, tailor's chalk, pinking shears, tracing wheel, French curve, set square) and state its single correct use in writing.

Demonstrate correct posture, needle insertion, bobbin winding and threading on a lockstitch machine without instructor help, then repeat the sequence three times from memory.

Carry out a full weekly maintenance routine: remove lint from the bobbin case and feed dogs, oil the specified points, and check needle straightness and belt tension.

Diagnose and correct three common machine faults (skipped stitches, thread bunching under the fabric, needle breakage) and record the cause and fix for each.

Take a full set of body measurements on one person (bust, waist, hip, shoulder, back length, sleeve length, inseam) and record them on a measurement chart with landmarks labelled.

Draft a basic bodice block to personal measurements on drafting paper, including all construction lines, seam allowances and grainline markings.

Draft a basic sleeve block and a plain skirt block, then check that the sleeve cap ease and skirt waist darts match the bodice measurements.

Explain in writing how to select fabric for a garment: match fibre content and weave to the garment's purpose, calculate required length from the draft, and state shrinkage and nap allowances.

Identify ten fibre samples or written descriptions by properties (absorbency, elasticity, heat sensitivity, strength) and state the correct washing, drying and ironing care for each.

Convert a set of body measurements into a size chart and explain how to adjust the draft for a figure that falls between two sizes.

True the drafted blocks: walk seams, correct dart intake, square corners and add consistent seam allowances, then cut a calico toile.

Fit the toile on a person and mark at least four fitting corrections (shoulder slope, bust dart position, waist suppression, armhole gaping).

Transfer fitting corrections back to the paper pattern and redraft the affected areas.

Lay out and cut a simple garment in real fabric, observing grainline, fold, selvedge, nap and notching of balance points.

Sequence the construction of a simple bodice or skirt: stay-stitch, darts, seams, facing and hem, and justify the order in writing.

Sew and finish five seam types (plain, French, flat-fell, lapped, overlocked) on sample squares and rate each for strength, bulk and suitable fabric.

Work a set of hand stitches to a fixed stitch length: running, backstitch, hemming, blind hem, blanket and buttonhole stitch, with even tension and spacing.

Insert a centred zip, a lapped zip and an invisible zip into sample openings and compare the finish quality of each.

Attach a faced neckline and a bias-bound edge, and explain when each finish is preferred.

Complete a full garment from the corrected pattern, applying the correct seam and hem finish for the fabric chosen.

Construct and attach three collar types (Peter Pan, shirt, shawl) and three cuff or placket types, checking symmetry against the pattern.

Set in a sleeve with correct ease distribution and no puckers, then verify that the sleeve hangs straight on the body.

Execute three surface-ornamentation techniques on samples: hand embroidery (at least three basic stitches), appliqué with a satin-stitch edge, and machine or hand smocking or gathering.

Add a decorative finish (beadwork, sequin scatter, mirror work or fabric painting) to a garment panel, testing the technique on scrap fabric first for needle, thread and stabiliser choice.

Explain in writing how embellishment placement must respect grainline, seam allowance and the wearer's movement, and how to secure embellishments so they survive washing.

Apply a professional finishing sequence to a completed garment: understitching, trimming and clipping curves, pressing at each stage, and a hand-finished or machine blind hem.

Press a finished garment correctly by fibre type, using the right temperature, damp cloth or steam, and demonstrate pressing versus ironing on a sample.

Remove a stain from three fabric types using the correct agent and method, and record what worked without damaging colour or texture.

Carry out a final quality inspection of your garment against a written checklist (symmetry, seam security, thread ends, hem level, button security, embellishment attachment) and log every defect found.

Repair the defects found, or if none remain, deliberately introduce and then fix one seam and one embellishment fault to prove the repair skill.

Set up a safe work area: position the machine and light correctly, route the cable safely, and store needles, pins, scissors and blades so no hazard is exposed.

Demonstrate safe machine practice: keep fingers clear of the needle path, unplug before servicing, use a needle guard, and switch off at the socket after use.

Identify five workplace hygiene requirements (hand washing, clean workspace, no food near fabric, ventilation, safe waste disposal) and apply them across one full working session.

Carry out and log a monthly deep-clean and lubrication service of the machine, and record needle and belt wear.

Write a short risk assessment for a home tailoring workspace listing five hazards, their likelihood, and the control measure for each.

Cost one complete garment: calculate fabric, thread, interfacing, embellishment and trim consumption, add a labour rate per hour, then apply overhead and a profit margin to reach a selling price.

Prepare a simple quotation and order form for a made-to-measure customer, including measurement record, delivery date and payment terms.

Compare three routes to market (direct customers, tailoring shop employment, boutique or online supply) and state the capital, skills and income pattern of each.

Revise the weakest domain by re-attempting practice questions or re-doing the associated practical task, and log the score or result.

Assemble a complete portfolio of all eight weeks' deliverables with a contents page, ready for revision and for showing to a customer or employer.