Basic Sewing Machine Operation Program

Women have always been marginalized and downgraded to the status of subjugated class in Indian society. Women have not actively participated in their emancipation due to their lack of economic independence and illiteracy. There is a need to address the issue by raising the status of women. Keeping this issue in mind, our organisation has started a basic sewing machine operation programme for the empowerment of women. Self-Employment Tailoring Course was conducted in Indore. The duration of the programme was 3 months. In this programme, participants learned to sew, mend or alter garments, made-ups, and home furnishings. During the program following the training provided by the experts:

Drafting patterns and cutting fabric

The participants learned to take measurements and draft patterns according to the measurements taken/provided, place the patterns on the fabric and cut the cloth. They also learned to measure fabric and place it on a table according to the grainline and the drafted paper pattern. They have now become familiar with the various kinds of fabric and how they are to be handled while cutting and sewing.

Setting machine controls and sewing

Participants were given a thorough understanding of each part of the sewing machine. They learned to set the controls such as thread tension, bobbins, stitch length, needle position, etc. They learned to control and run the machine as well as join the components and other sewing techniques, which include sewing by hand.

Quality check and alterations

Participants were also instructed on how to conduct a quality check of the stitched product/garment to identify necessary alterations, as well as they, were also instructed on using the tools and techniques of making alterations.

Maintenance of machinery, equipment, and tools

This was an essential activity where the participants learned about the upkeep and maintenance of all the tools and equipment needed at work. Also given information on how to clean and oil the machine and moving parts, keep needles and accessories in an appropriate and easy to access place, and keep scissors clean to avoid rust and any other damage. The main objective of this sewing machine operation programme is to enhance the quality of life of women and teenage girls through the enhancement of their skills and knowledge. The programme was conducted in Khargone. Participants learned basic knowledge and acquired practical skills during the programme.