Question 1: Describe the process of using a plain seam to join two pieces of fabric. Include the tools needed and any preparation steps.

Answer: A plain seam involves placing two fabric edges right sides together, sewing along the edge with a straight stitch, and then pressing the seam open or to one side. Tools needed include fabric scissors, pins, a sewing machine, and pressing tools. Preparation includes aligning the fabrics accurately and pinning to prevent shifting.

Question 2: Explain the difference between a flat-felled seam and a French seam, including where each might be used.

Answer: A flat-felled seam involves sewing the fabric edges together, trimming one seam allowance, folding the raw edges inside, and sewing again to enclose raw edges, often used in denim. A French seam encloses raw edges by sewing a narrow seam with wrong sides together, trimming, then turning right sides out and sewing again with right sides together, used for delicate fabrics to prevent fraying.

Question 3: List three different joining techniques suitable for quilt-making and briefly describe each.

Answer: 1. Sewing seams: joining fabric pieces with a straight stitch to form quilt blocks. 2. Hand quilting: stitching through multiple layers to hold the quilt top, batting, and backing together. 3. Binding: attaching a strip of fabric around the edges to finish and secure the quilt edges.

Question 4: Sketch a diagram showing how a zigzag stitch can be used to finish raw edges of a fabric. Label the key parts of your sketch.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a piece of fabric with raw edges, and a zigzag stitch line along the edge, illustrating how the stitch encloses the raw edge to prevent fraying. Labels should include 'raw edge,' 'zigzag stitch line,' and 'sewn edge.'

Question 5: Discuss the advantages of using a binding technique to join fabric edges in a project.

Answer: Binding provides a clean, professional finish, secures raw edges to prevent fraying, and adds durability. It also enhances the aesthetic appearance of the project.

Question 6: Describe the steps involved in creating a hem using a blind hem stitch. Include the tools required.

Answer: Tools needed include fabric scissors, a sewing machine with a blind hem foot, and pins. Steps involve folding the fabric edge under to the desired hem width, pinning it in place, setting the sewing machine to the blind hem stitch, aligning the fabric edge with the guide, and sewing to create a nearly invisible hem.

Question 7: Explain how a fusible web can be used to join two pieces of fabric without stitching. Mention safety precautions.

Answer: Fusible web is a heat-activated adhesive that bonds fabrics together when pressed with an iron. Place the web between the fabrics, align them, and press with a hot iron according to manufacturer instructions. Precautions include avoiding burns from hot tools and ensuring the web is suitable for the fabric types.

Question 8: Design a simple labelled sketch showing the process of joining two fabric pieces using a hand stitch of your choice. Include labels for the components involved.

Answer: A sketch should show two fabric pieces overlapped or aligned, with a visible hand stitch (e.g., running stitch or whip stitch). Labels should include 'fabric piece 1,' 'fabric piece 2,' 'hand stitch,' and 'needle and thread.'

Question 9: Identify and explain one advantage and one disadvantage of using an overlock stitch for joining fabrics.

Answer: Advantage: Overlock stitching provides a professional finish by simultaneously sewing and trimming the raw edge, preventing fraying. Disadvantage: Overlock machines can be expensive and complex to operate for beginners.