Butte College

Course Outline

2026-2027 Catalog

FASH 9 - Clothing Construction I

Catalog Description

Transfer Status
CSU
Unit(s)
3.00
  • Lecture: 34.00 Contact hours/68.00 Out of class hours/102.00 Total hours/2.00 Unit(s)
  • Lab: 51.00 Contact hours/0.00 Out of class hours/51.00 Total hours/1.00 Unit(s)
  • Total: 85.00 Contact hours/68.00 Out of class hours/153.00 Total hours/3.00 Unit(s)

Course Description: This is a beginning course in clothing construction. Topics include pattern selection and layout, selection of fashion fabrics and interfacings, seam finishes and design features. Students will develop their sewing skills though the construction of garments and samples utilizing professional sewing techniques.

Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, the student should be able to:

  1. Identify and record specific body measurements and use these to adjust a commercial pattern for proper fit.
  2. Read and interpret pattern instructions for the construction of a garment, then select the most suitable fabric.
  3. Demonstrate the proper use and function of clothing construction equipment for personal and professional sewing.
  4. Identify the appropriate clothing construction techniques used to create particular garments.

Course Content

Topic Titles / Suggested Time Topic

Lecture

Lecture topics and suggested hours
TopicsLec Hrs

Introduction/Orientation

1.00

Figure Analysis, Body Measurement, Pattern Size

1.00

Pattern Selection, Adjustment and Fitting

2.00

Selection and Preparation of Fashion Fabrics

2.00

Selection and Application of Interfacings

2.00

Selection, Use, and Care of Equipment and Utensils

2.00

Pattern Layout, Fabric Cutting, Marketing and Stay-Stitching

2.00

Use of Pattern Envelope and Instructions Sheet

2.00

Pressing Equipment and Techniques

2.00

Design Features: Darts, Gathers, Tucks, and Pleats

2.00

Seams and Seam Finishes

2.00

Neckline Treatments

2.00

Sleeve Treatments

2.00

Zippers

3.00

Pockets and Waistbands

2.00

Hems - Types and Applications, Basic Hand Stitches

2.00

Buttonholes

2.00

Finishing Touches

1.00
Total Hours:34.00

Lab

Lab topics and suggested hours
TopicsLab Hrs

Introduction/Orientation

2.00

Figure Analysis, Body Measurement, Pattern Size

3.00

Pattern Selection, Adjustment and Fitting

3.00

Selection and Preparation of Fashion Fabrics

3.00

Selection and Application of Interfacings

3.00

Selection, Use, and Care of Equipment and Utensils

3.00

Pattern Layout, Fabric Cutting, Marketing and Stay-Stitching

3.00

Use of Pattern Envelope and Instructions Sheet

3.00

Pressing Equipment and Techniques

2.00

Design Features: Darts, Gathers, Tucks, and Pleats

3.00

Seams and Seam Finishes

3.00

Neckline Treatments

3.00

Sleeve Treatments

3.00

Zippers

3.00

Pockets and Waistbands

3.00

Hems - Types and Applications, Hand Stitches

3.00

Buttonholes

2.00

Finishing Touches

3.00
Total Hours:51.00

Methods of Instruction

  1. Demonstrations
  2. Homework: Students are required to complete two hours of outside-of-class homework for each hour of lecture
  3. Lecture
  4. Multimedia Presentations
  5. Lab Participation

Methods of Evaluation

  1. Quizzes
  2. Garment Construction
    C. Technique Book (Samples) with Instructions
    D. Participation in Lab

Examples of Assignments

Reading Assignments

  1. Read the materials from class text on seams and seam finishes. Be prepared to identify different seams and seam finishes on actual samples in class.
  2. Read an article about fabric grainline and layout of garments. Apply this technique to your sewing project.

Writing Assignments

  1. Write a 2-3 page summary of the process needed to assemble the two selected garments selected by the instructor.
  2. Prepare a 3-4 page journal entry about your experience putting together a garment. Be sure to discuss your successes and challenges.

Out-of-Class Assignments

  1. Obtain and assemble a binder of basic construction techniques, such as seam finishes, zippers, buttonholes, etc.
  2. Visit a local fabric store to research fabrics and trims for your project. Bring your fabrics and trims to class.

Recommended Materials of Instruction

Readers Digest Editors. (2022). Readers Digest “Complete Guide to Sewing”. Reader's Digest - Trusted Media Brands, 1st. 978-1621458012.

Other Learning Materials

Instructor Handouts

Basic Sewing Equipment

Minimum Qualifications

Family & Cons Study/Home Ec

Fashion & Related Technologies