Unit of competency details

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.

1

Confirm work requirements

1.1

Work requirements and artwork specifications  are interpreted and clarified, as required

1.2

Machine functionality is checked to confirm capacity for work

1.3

Material requirements are confirmed

1.4

Garment or item and fabric  to be embroidered are assessed and considered for impact on work requirements

2

Prepare for embroidering

2.1

Artwork file is accessed and imported into working area and software  navigated to direct production

2.2

Needles, threads and hoops  are selected and prepared according to fabric and work requirements

2.3

Stabilisers, toppings and backings  are selected and prepared according to fabric and work requirements

2.4

Work area is set up according to occupational health and safety (OHS) practices  

2.5

Routine minor maintenance  is performed according to manufacturer specifications

3

Produce embroidery

3.1

Needle sequence, thread tension and speed, and hoop are assessed and adjusted

3.2

Embroidery is produced according to workplace procedures , OHS practices and design requirements

3.3

Machine operation is checked and adjusted to ensure optimum performance

3.4

Production problems, such as thread breaks, are managed

3.5

Production efficiencies are assessed and areas for improvement identified

3.6

Waste is minimised and disposed of according to environmental guidelines

4

Finish work

4.1

Embroidery is inspected against work requirements and artwork specifications

4.2

Work is finished and prepared for despatch

4.3

Documentation is completed

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

Required skills include: 

• applying workplace health and safety requirements for a production environment
• applying embroidery machining skills
• applying basic computer skills
• selecting fabric, needles, thread, stabiliser and hoop to meet design specifications
• assembling and attaching hoop
• applying hooping techniques and using hooping accessories
• recognising and addressing production problems
• reading, interpreting and following information on work specifications, standard operating procedures and work instructions, and other reference material
• maintaining accurate records
• communicating within the workplace
• sequencing operations
• meeting specifications
• clarifying and checking task-related information

Required knowledge includes: 

• computer navigation to access and import an image
• machine embroidery techniques
• types and properties of fabric
• colour, texture, shape, balance and composition theory
• hoop types
• needle types
• thread types
• stabiliser types
• workplace policies and procedures
• environmental aspects related to workplace and machine or equipment operation and manual handling
• OHS practices, including hazard identification and control measures
• quality practices
• practices for recording and reporting

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 for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit 

It is essential that competence be demonstrated in the fundamental computerised embroidery techniques. The candidate must be able to:

• access and import artwork
• select and prepare materials and equipment to meet work requirements
• complete embroidery work according to work specifications
• produce work efficiently and according to quality standards
• recognise and address production problems.

Evidence should demonstrate ability in embroidery techniques through production of a range of pieces.

Context of and specific resources for assessment 

Assessment may occur on the job or in an appropriately simulated environment and requires access to work areas, materials and equipment and to information on workplace practices and OHS practices.

The resource requirements for this unit include access to:

• digitising image
• embroidery machine
• hoops
• a range of fabrics
• a range of threads
• a range of needles
• hooping accessories
• notions.

Method of assessment 

This unit may be assessed independently or in combination with other relevant units.

Assessment methods may include:

• written and oral questioning
• completion of practical activities/tasks.

Guidance information for assessment 

Assessment processes and techniques must be culturally appropriate and appropriate to the language and literacy capacity of the candidate and the work being performed.

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.

Artwork specifications 

Artwork specifications may include: 

• content
• colour
• size, including width and length
• stitch type and size
• font
• fill

Fabric types 

Fabric types must include:

• wovens
• non-wovens
• knits
• lightweight
• heavyweight

Software 

Software may include: 

• any software classed as a digitising software (as opposed to customising or editing software)

Needle types 

Needle types may include:

• standard
• metalfil
• embroidery eye
• stretch

Threads types 

Threads types may include:

• polyester
• metallic
• rayon
• cotton

Hoop types 

Hoop types may include:

• tubular
• sash
• screw
• cap
• square
• round
• spring

Stabilisers, toppings and backings 

Stabilisers, toppings and backings may include:

• water soluble
• tear away
• iron on
• cut away

Colours may include:

• black
• white

Weights may vary

OHS practices 

OHS practices must include hazard identification and control, risk assessment and implementation of risk reduction measures specific to the tasks described by this unit, and may include:

• manual handling techniques
• standard operating procedures
• personal protective equipment
• safe materials handling
• taking of rest breaks
• ergonomic arrangement of workplaces
• following marked walkways
• safe storage of equipment
• housekeeping
• reporting accidents and incidents
• other OHS practices relevant to the job and enterprise

Minor maintenance  

Minor maintenance may include:

• checking and replacement of needles, attachments and/or parts
• oiling of machine parts
• removal of lint or fabric

Workplace procedures 

Workplace procedures may include:

• requirements prescribed by legislation, awards, agreements and conditions of employment
• standard operating procedures
• work instructions
• oral, written and visual communication
• quality practices, including responsibility for maintenance of own work quality and contribution to quality improvement of team or section output
• housekeeping
• tasks related to environmental protection, waste disposal, pollution control and recycling