Revitalising and enhancing sewing skills and expertise

Critical skill gaps highlighted by UK professionals in the fashion industry and identified by Government bodies were evidenced in the classroom while observing fashion students. The issues include lacking an understanding of garment construction quality, technical knowledge and skills, and timescale boundaries. It was also observed that students lack the confidence to experiment with construction techniques. A study was initiated to revitalise and enhance sewing skill capability through a purposely designed resource tool. Secondary research and interview responses from industry personnel working closely with undergraduate students and graduate designers substantiated the preliminary observations. The resource tool samples were inspired by two UK archive collections enabling the inclusion of lesser-used complex construction techniques. The tool is described, its effectiveness discussed and future developments are given. When fully developed, the resource tool could also enable craft dressmakers to develop and enhance their skills and expertise, by introducing them to less-documented techniques.