Practical Workshop, Project Work and Portfolio
This domain tests safe independent workshop practice, sample making, project documentation and portfolio presentation for the viva.
Workshop practice
The practical exam checks correct tool use, machine threading, straight stitching, seam and stitch samples, and a garment constructed to given measurements. Keep a sample file: seam samples, stitch samples, embroidery samples, buttonhole and zipper samples, each labelled with stitch type, machine setting and fabric used.
Project and portfolio
A project has a title, aim, market or need, design brief, materials and costing, pattern and construction steps, photographs of stages, quality checks, the final product and an evaluation. The portfolio is a curated record: contents page, design sketches, fabric swatches, technical drawings, samples, photographs, costing sheet and a reflection on what you would improve.
Worked example
A six-week project on a school-uniform apron: week 1 survey and measurements; week 2 draft and toile; week 3 cutting; week 4 sewing and fittings; week 5 finishing and inspection; week 6 documentation. Each stage is photographed and dated, so the viva can trace decisions - this evidence earns marks that a good product alone cannot.
Traps
- Presenting a borrowed or copied project without process evidence.
- Missing costing sheet and fabric details.
- Unlabelled samples that show no machine settings.
- Ignoring the safety record and workspace clean-up.