Measuring and Cutting Tools in Sewing

Study Notes

Measuring Tools

Tape Measure: A non-stretchable strip measuring 60 to 72 inches, essential for body measurements.
Foot Ruler: A 12-inch solid wooden or metal ruler for marking straight lines.
Sewing Gauge: A hand tool designed for measuring small areas accurately.
Meterstick/Yardstick: Used to measure fabric width by the yard or meter.

Drafting Tools

L-Square/Tailor's Square: Utilized to draw perpendicular lines for measuring parallel lines.
Hip Curve: Ideal for drawing smooth curves in fabric.
French Curves: Used for shaping collars, armholes, and necklines.

Cutting Tools

Scissors: Effective for trimming, grading seams, clipping curves, and cutting corners.
Shears: Specifically designed for cutting fabric, paper, and other flat materials.
Pinking Shears: Feature a zigzag design to finish the seam edges on tightly woven fabric.
Scalloping Shears: Used to cut fabric into a scallop design.
Finishing Shears: Safely remove stray threads from finished garments.
Buttonhole Scissors: Provides precision for dressmaking, especially for buttonholes.
Embroidery Scissors: A small pair with pointed tips for detailed work.
Seam Ripper: Essential for removing stitches.
Razor Blade: Used for opening seams or cutting fabric.

Marking Tools

Tailor's Chalk: Marks fabric lines without permanent residue.
Tracing Wheel: Transfers pattern markings onto fabric surfaces.
Dressmaker's Carbon Paper: Transfers markings to the fabric's wrong side.

Sewing Aids

Pins: Used to hold layers of fabric together.
Pin Cushion: A padded area to store pins and needles conveniently.
Hand Needles: Used for manual sewing of fabrics.
Machine Needles: Specialized needles designed for sewing machines.
Thimble: A protective cup worn on fingers to prevent needle injury.
Needle Threader: Simplifies the needle threading process.

Sewing Machines

Invention: The sewing machine was invented by Thomas Saint in 1790.
Sewing Machine: Used to stitch fabrics together using thread.
Lockstitch Sewing Machine: Operated by foot, can be converted to electric.
Hi-Speed Lockstitch Sewing Machine: Features automatic lubrication, used by professionals.
Over Edging Sewing Machine (Serger): Finishes raw fabric edges during sewing.
Embroidery Machine: Used for creating decorative stitches.
Button Holer Machine: Specifically makes buttonholes.
Button Attachment Machine: Attaches buttons to garments securely.
Double Needle Machine: Used for decorative stitching.
Bar Tracking Machine: Strengthens pocket openings.

Other Essentials

Thread: A long, thin strand of material (cotton, nylon, etc.) used in sewing.
Needle: A slender steel instrument for sewing.
Bobbin: A cylinder holding thread, commonly used in machine sewing.

Parts of a Sewing Machine

Spool Pin: Holds the thread reel on the machine.
Thread Guide: Keeps the thread aligned from the spool to the needle.
Tension Disk: Adjusts the tension of the thread during sewing.
Take Up Lever: Feeds thread to the needle and tightens the loop.
Needle Bar: Holds the needle and provides motion for sewing.
Bobbin Case: Catches the top thread to form stitches.
Presser Foot: Holds fabric in place while sewing.
Presser Foot Lifter: Raises and lowers the presser foot.
Stitch Regulator: Controls the length of stitches.
Bobbin Winder: Winds thread onto the bobbin.
Fly Wheel: Powers the sewing mechanism by rotating.
Clutch or Thumb Screw: Engages/disengages the sewing mechanism.
Slide Plate: Allows for easy access to the bobbin case.
Needle Plate/Throat Plate: Features a hole for the needle to pass through.
Feed Dogs: Moves the fabric forward during sewing.
Face Plate: Provides access to oiling points of the sewing machine.

Description

Test your knowledge on the various measuring, drafting, and cutting tools commonly used in sewing. This quiz covers essential tools such as tape measures, rulers, scissors, and more, providing a comprehensive overview for sewing enthusiasts. Brush up on your tool knowledge to enhance your sewing skills!