Unit of competency details

Unit descriptor 

This unit covers the competency to measure out and cut single layer fabrics.

Application of the unit 

Prerequisite units 

Nil

Employability skills 

This unit contains employability skills.

Elements describe the essential outcomes of a unit of competency.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised text is used, further information is detailed in the required skills and knowledge section and the range statement. Assessment of performance is to be consistent with the evidence guide.

ELEMENT 

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA 

1. Plan work operations

1.1. Required fabrics, number of items to be cut and required equipment are identified

1.2. Fabric sizes to be cut are identified from work order plus any required allowances

1.3. OHS requirements, including ergonomic criteria and personal protection needs, are observed throughout the work.

1.4. Suitable work area is selected, tidied and cleaned of any contaminants

1.5. Suitable scissors and or blades are selected and checked prior to use for appropriate sharpness, set, operation and safe condition

1.6. Fabrics are selected in accordance with work order and laid out smooth and square

2. Prepare materials for cutting

2.1. Fabrics are inspected for flaws and appropriate finish

2.2. Naps, direction, pattern matches and face of the materials are identified

2.3. Tools and equipment are checked for operation

3. Complete cutting operations

3.1. Cutting is completed with cut out materials identified/labelled where required

3.2. Any measurements for pleat lines, hems, headings and any special seam allowances are marked out using workplace approved methods

3.3. Where required, fabrics are hung using appropriate protective covers and care label information is attached

3.4. Cut lengths are dispatched to next process following workplace procedures

3.5. Unused materials are stored as required

3.6. Workplace required documentation is completed following appropriate procedures

3.7. Work area is cleaned and damaged tools tagged as required

3.8. Waste is collected and bundled for recycling/reuse as required

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE 

This section describes the skills and knowledge required for this unit.

Required skills 

• collect, organise and understand information related to work orders, basic plans and safety procedures
• communicate ideas and information to enable confirmation of work requirements and specifications, co-ordination of work with site supervisor, other workers and customers, and the reporting of work outcomes and problems
• plan and organise activities, including the preparation and layout of the worksite and the obtaining of equipment and materials to avoid any back tracking, workflow interruptions or wastage
• work with others and in a team by recognising dependencies and using co-operative approaches to optimise workflow and productivity
• use mathematical ideas and techniques to correctly complete measurements and estimate fabric requirements and other material requirements
• use pre-checking and inspection techniques to anticipate cutting problems, avoid re-working and wastage
• use the limited workplace technology related to cutting, including tools, equipment, calculators and measuring devices.

Required knowledge 

• work requirements, including workplace standards
• fabric types, common faults and inspection procedures
• design features of the finished items in relation to attractive use of fabric patterns
• cutting equipment and techniques
• the impact of cutting on fabrics

EVIDENCE GUIDE 

The Evidence Guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.

Critical aspects of evidence 

• Interpret work order and locate and apply relevant information
• Apply safe handling practices for equipment, products and materials
• Identify materials used and any special marking out requirements
• Measure accurately and cut fabric quantities to minimise waste and produce consistent quality items for at least five different types of material or product
• Follow work instructions, operating procedures and inspection practices to:

• minimise the risk of injury to self and others
• prevent damage to goods, equipment and products
• maintain required production output and product quality

• Work effectively with others
• Modify activities to cater for variations in workplace contexts and environment

Resource implications 

Work orders, fabrics, including linings and interlinings, calculator and where available other workplace calculating and cutting equipment.

Method of assessment 

Assessment methods must confirm consistency of performance over time and in a range of workplace relevant contexts.

Assessment should be by direct observation of tasks and questioning on underpinning knowledge.

Assessment should be conducted over time and will generally be in conjunction with assessment of other units of competency.

Context of assessment 

Assessment may occur on the job or in a workplace simulated facility with relevant equipment, materials, work instructions and deadlines.

RANGE STATEMENT 

The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.

Unit scope 

This unit applies to soft furnishings and upholstered items cut from measurements and instructions. It does not apply to cutting from patterns.

Unit context 

• OHS requirements may include legislation, building codes, material safety management systems, hazardous and dangerous goods codes and local safe operating procedures or equivalent
• Work is carried out in accordance with legislative obligations, environmental legislation, relevant health regulations, manual handling procedures and organisation insurance requirements
• Work requires individuals to demonstrate some discretion, judgement and problem solving skills in the set up and operation of machines. This may be demonstrated either individually or in a team environment

Workplace environment 

Work may be performed in workplaces which are involved in the manufacture of soft furnishings and upholstered furniture and in the repair and restoration of furnishing products

Tools and equipment may include , but are not limited to :

• cutting equipment
• including scissors and cutting machines; measuring and calculating equipment
• including tapes
• rulers
• calculators and computers

Products to be constructed may include , but are not limited to :

• curtains
• drapes
• swags
• cushions and upholstered furniture components

Personal protective equipment 

Personal protective equipment is to include that prescribed under legislation, regulations and enterprise policies and practices

Information and procedures 

• Machine manufacturer specifications and operational procedures
• Workplace procedures relating to the setting and operation of machinery
• Work instructions, including job sheets, cutting lists, plans, drawings and designs
• Workplace procedures relating to reporting and communication

Unit sector 

Soft Furnishing

Competency field 

Co-requisite units