Course Title: Set up, adjust and maintain industrial sewing machines

Part B: Course Detail

Teaching Period: Term2 2025

Course Code: MIET7642C

Course Title: Set up, adjust and maintain industrial sewing machines

School: 515T Creative Industries

Campus: Brunswick Campus

Program: C3417 - Certificate III in Apparel, Fashion and Textiles

Course Contact: Katrina Rose

Course Contact Phone: +61 3 99259112

Course Contact Email: katrina.rose@rmit.edu.au


Name and Contact Details of All Other Relevant Staff

Teacher: Kate Pitman

kate.pitman@rmit.edu.au

Teacher: Marg Papadopoulos

margaret.papadopoulos@rmit.edu.au

Nominal Hours: 50

Regardless of the mode of delivery, represent a guide to the relative teaching time and student effort required to successfully achieve a particular competency/module. This may include not only scheduled classes or workplace visits but also the amount of effort required to undertake, evaluate and complete all assessment requirements, including any non-classroom activities.

Pre-requisites and Co-requisites

Nil

Course Description

This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to set up industrial sewing machines for production, conducting sample runs, problem solving, repair, adjustment, preventative routine maintenance and testing of machines to ensure efficient working order. It does not include skills associated with general engineering (fitting), electrical and electronic systems, and fluid power systems.

In this course you will acquire the skills and knowledge required to set up and maintain machines in readiness for sewing.


National Codes, Titles, Elements and Performance Criteria

National Element Code & Title:

MSTTX3014 Set up, adjust and maintain industrial sewing machines

Element:

1. Prepare to set up, adjust and maintain industrial sewing machines

Performance Criteria:

1.1 Identify job requirements from work documentation 1.2 Identify and comply with work health and safety requirements in accordance with workplace procedures 1.3 Interpret machine manufacturer specifications and work description to determine optimum sewing machine settings for product and operator 1.4 Select, prepare and use tools appropriate for the machine and task to set up machine for operation 1.5 Set up machine and attachments according to required specifications and to run at optimum quality and efficiency levels 1.6 Identify and act on opportunities to minimise waste in sewing operations 1.7 Thread and check needles and set tension for planned sewing operations 1.8 Check lubrication prior to operation and instruct sewing machine operators of any special operating requirements

Element:

2. Test industrial sewing machine settings

Performance Criteria:

2.1 Operate sewing machine according to manufacturer and workplace instructions to test settings against specifications and operational standards 2.2 Examine sewn product or sample to confirm desired sewing motion and stitch is achieved, and identify any adjustments needed to machine settings 2.3 Identify and document adjustments and adjust machine settings accordingly

Element:

3. Diagnose industrial sewing problems

Performance Criteria:

3.1 Monitor industrial sewing machine operation for efficiency, safety and compliance with workplace procedures 3.2 Identify sewing faults through direct inspection of sewn products or communication with operator 3.3 Analyse problems and faults to determine root cause and determine strategy for rectification

Element:

4. Fix machine and communicate outcomes

Performance Criteria:

4.1 Make repairs and adjustments to return sewing machine to optimal performance in accordance with manufacturer instructions 4.2 Test sewing machine and produce sample to ensure problems have been fixed 4.3 Maintain accurate records and prepare reports in accordance with workplace requirements 4.4 Document required adjustments to machines, patterns or templates and communicate to appropriate personnel 4.5 Accurately update operational instructions in accordance with workplace requirements


Learning Outcomes


On successful completion of this course you will acquire the skills and knowledge required to diagnose problems and fix minor issues to maintain sewing machines.


Details of Learning Activities

Details of Learning Activities

In this course you will engage in the following learning activities:

practical demonstrations in studio

design activities and projects

independent project based work

practical studio based workshops


Teaching Schedule

MST30122 Certificate III Apparel, Fashion & Textiles

Canvas Shell Cluster: Sew Garments & Maintain Machines
Units: MSTTX3014 – Set up, adjust, and maintain industrial sewing machines. MSTAT3007 – Sew stretch knit garments

Canvas Shell Cluster: Repair & Alter

MSTAT3010 – Perform garment repairs and alterations. MSTAT4015 – Determine and perform advanced garment repairs and alterations. MSTAT3008 – Embellish textile products (Release 1).

Overview of Semester 2:

Introduction to the overall program, how the units are clustered, and learning is integrated, what assessments will look like and how classes will operate.

Introduction: Tour of production room, knit machines, equipment inductionsand how toset up a workstation.

Discussion: Class Rules,WHS in the Production room, student equipment list

Wk

Topic: Set up, adjust, and maintain industrial sewing machines.

Assessments

1-3

Overview: In this topic you will developknowledge and practice of the use of industrial sewing machines including knit fabric specialist machines.

Before starting any sewing activities, you will need to understand the process of checking and maintaining specialist machines.

You will learn how to check the oil level in a lockstitch machine safely.

You will learn how to clean and maintain the correct threading of the 3, four and five thread overlockers.

You will learn how to prepare workstations in accordance with the manufacturer’s requirements.

You will learn to understand safety signage and use PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) related to the specialist knit machines and other specialist machines in the production room.

You will then apply this knowledge in every learning and assessment task you undertake in the production room.

Begin in Wk1 Assessment Task 1 Knit Sewing Workbook

Due Wk3

Begin in Wk1 Assessment Task 4 Knowledge Quiz and Workbook

Due Wk7

Wk

Topic: Sew stretch knit garments

Assessments

1-6

Overview: In this topic you will developknowledge and understanding of making garments using stretch knit fabrics.

You will learn how to set up, adjust and maintain specialist knit machines.

You will begin by completing a knit sewing workbook to build your sewing skills, machine handling and develop confidence. You will then begin to apply this knowledge and sew two knit products, starting with a Track Pant with elasticated waist and rib cuffs and as skills develop move onto a Hooded Sweat Top with rib cuffs. These products will progressively allow you to demonstrate more complex skills.

You will learn about various sewing and sewing machine standard operating procedures (SOPs). You will learn about quality standards, why they are important and how to identify faults and corrective actions. You will perform quality checks on all your work.

You will also learn about different documents used in clothing production and how these can assist in communicating information and maintain quality standards.

You will then apply this knowledge in every learning and assessment task you undertake in the production room.

Begin in Wk3 Assessment Task 2 Make Knit Product – Track Pant

Due Wk5

Begin in Wk4

Assessment Task 3 Make Knit Product – Hooded Sweat Top. Due Wk7

Wk

Topic: Perform garmentrepairs and alterations

Assessments

7-10

Overview: In this topic you will developknowledge and understanding of how to perform garment repairs and alterations using different machines and hand sewing techniques.

You will learn how to assess garments for repair and alterations, how to choose the best repair or alteration method to extend the life and end use of the garment and how to complete repairs and alterations to meet client requirements.

You will learn how to use documentation to

  • record how you discuss and confirm alterations and repairs for your client.
  • record your sequence of repairs and alterations.
  • perform and record quality inspections of repairs and alterations.
  • record your processes before, during and on completion with photo evidence.

You will then apply this knowledge in every learning and assessment task you undertake in the production room.

Begin in Wk7 Assessment Task 1 Repairs and Alterations

Due Wk10

Begin in Wk8 Assessment Task 3 Knowledge Questions

Due Wk 15

Wk

Topic: Determine and perform advanced garment repairs, alterations, and embellishments.

Assessments

11-16

Overview: In this topic you will developknowledge and understanding of how to perform advanced garment repairs, alterations and embellishments using different machines and hand sewing techniques across several different fabric types.

You will learn how to set up, adjust and maintain machines by performing a checklist.

You will learn how to assess garments for repair and alterations, how to choose the best advanced repair, alteration or embellishment method to extend the life and end use of the garment and how to complete repairs and alterations to meet client requirements. You will learn how to accurately cost for repairs, alterations, and embellishments to include labour, materials, and profit.

You will learn how to use documentation to

  • record how you discuss and confirm alterations and repairs for your client.
  • Itemise and calculate costs.
  • record your sequence of repairs and alterations.
  • perform and record quality inspections of advanced repairs, alterations and embellishments.
  • record your processes before, during and on completion with photo evidence.
  • Press and finish your work to meet industry standards and client expectations.

You will then apply this knowledge in every learning and assessment task you undertake in the production room.

Begin in Wk 11 Assessment Task 2 Advanced Repairs, Alterationsand Embellishments

Due Wk 16

Begin in Wk 8

Assessment Task 3 Knowledge Questions

Due Wk 15

17-18

Feedback and re submission

*NB students must be available and contactable.


Learning Resources

Prescribed Texts


References


Other Resources

The University Library has extensive resources and provides subject specialist expertise, research advice, help with referencing and support through:

The learning Lab
https://emedia.rmit.edu.au/learninglab/
The Study Support Hub
https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/support-services/study-support
Develop English language skills
https://emedia.rmit.edu.au/learninglab/content/improve-your-english


Overview of Assessment

This course is comprised of four assessments, a combination of a workbook, finished garments and knowledge questions will provide the opportunity for the student to show competency.


Assessment Tasks

Assignment 1

AT1 - Knit Fabric Sewing Workbook

Assignment 2

AT2 - Make 2 Knit Products – Track Pant

Assignments 3

AT3 - Make Knit Products –Hoodie Sweat Top

Assignment 4

AT4 - Knowledge Quiz

*NB Students must be competent in all assessments to satisfactorily complete the course


Assessment Matrix

The assessment matrix demonstrates alignment of assessment tasks with the unit of competency. This matrix is available on request from your teacher.

Other Information

Please refer to the RMIT student page for extensive information about study support, assessment, extensions, appeals and a range of other matters: https://www.rmit.edu.au/students

Attendance:
Your learning experience will involve class-based teaching, discussion, demonstration and practical exercises

It is strongly advised that you attend all timetabled sessions. This will allow you to engage in the required learning activities, ensuring you the maximum opportunity to complete this course successfully.

Assessment Feedback:
You will receive spoken and written feedback on all your work. Where relevant, this feedback will also include suggestions on how you can proceed to the next stage of developing your projects.

Student Progress:
Monitoring academic progress is an important enabling and proactive strategy designed to assist you in achieving your learning potential.

https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/student-essentials/assessment-and-exams/academic-progress

Adjustments to Assessment (eg. applying for an extension of time):
If you are unable to complete any piece of assessment satisfactorily by the due date, you can choose to apply for an adjustment to your assessment. RMIT University offers a range of adjustments designed to support you in your studies, including an extension of time to complete the assessment.

https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/student-essentials/assessment-and-results/adjustments-to-assessment

Academic Integrity and Plagiarism:
RMIT University has a strict policy on plagiarism and academic integrity. Please refer to the website for more information on this policy.

https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/student-essentials/assessment-and-results/academic-integrity

Credit Transfer and Recognition of Prior Learning:
Credit transfer is the recognition of previously completed formal learning (an officially accredited qualification).

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is an assessment process that allows you to demonstrate competence using the skills you have gained through experience in the workplace, voluntary work, informal or formal training or other life experiences.

Recognition of Current Competency (RCC) RCC applies only if you have previously successfully demonstrated competence in a unit of competency, and now requires to be reassessed to ensure that the competence is being maintained.

Please speak to your teacher if you wish to discuss applying for Credit Transfer, RPL, or RCC for the unit(s) of competency addressed in this course.

https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/student-essentials/enrolment/apply-for-credit

Course Overview: Access Course Overview