FUNDAMENTALS OF CLOTHING CONSTRUCTION 3(1+2)

Lesson 2 : Sewing Equipment and Tools

Criteria for selection of sewing equipment, use and care of the tools

Equipment	Selection, use and care
Measuring Tools
Tape	Tapes selected should be non-stretchable and flexible. Very little maintenance is required for a measuring tape. It is enough to just preserve it carefully when not in use.
Ruler/Yard Stick	Chipped out rulers should be replaced as they do not give accurate measurements.
Gauge	Metal gauge may bend with rough or repeated use. Once bent, it cannot help in accurate marking and hence needs to be replaced.
Marking Tools
Tailor’s Chalk	It is ideal to store tailors chalk in the case
Cutting Tools
Shears	The blades are to be kept clean and oiled occasionally. Use shears only to cut fabric. Cutting papers with shears will dull the blades. Shears can be sharpened if they become dull.
Sewing Tools
Needles	Hand needles are to be stored in black sulphur paper to prevent rusting.
Pin Cushions	Some pin cushions come with a strawberry that is filled with fine sand or emery, which is useful to clean needles/pins. The abrasive action of these fillers, removes dirt and rust, keeping the pin or needle sharp and smooth.
Seam Ripper	It should be covered when not in use to prevent injuries and damage which may occur with the sharp ends.
Needle Threader	Forcing the threader through a small needle eye will cause the wire to break, so care should be exercised during its use.