Elements and Performance Criteria

The Range Statement provides advice to interpret the scope and context of this unit of competency, allowing for differences between enterprises and workplaces. It relates to the unit as a whole and facilitates holistic assessment. The following variables may be present for this particular unit:

Fabricate skirts

Addresses the requirement to measure, mark out, cut and sew skirts for application to items of upholstered furniture

Types of skirt include, but are not limited to: knife, box, mock box and inverted

Unit context
OH&S requirements include legislation, material safety management systems, hazardous substances and dangerous goods codes and safe operating procedures
Work requires individuals to demonstrate discretion, judgement and problem solving skills in the fabrication of skirts
Work is carried out in accordance with legislative obligations, environmental legislation, relevant health regulations, manual handling procedures and organisation insurance requirements

Tools and equipment may include, but are not limited to:
measuring tape
cutting table
straight edges
skewers
scissors and sewing machines

Sewing machines may include:
flat bed walking foot and overlocker

Sewing machine set up and adjustments include:
threading machine and winding bobbin
setting required tensions
setting required machine settings
lubricating and adjusting the machine
and testing operation for work order requirements

Materials may include:
fabric
calico
chalk
pattern/template material

Personal protective equipment is to include that prescribed under legislation, regulations and enterprise practices and procedures. It may include:
safety glasses/goggles
hair nets
ear muffs/plugs
gloves
footwear and protective clothing

Information and procedures

Workflow in relation to the fabrication of skirts

Workplace procedures relating to the setting and operation of machines

Work instructions, including job sheets, plans, drawings and designs

Workplace procedures relating to reporting and communication

The Evidence Guide identifies the critical aspects, knowledge and skills to be demonstrated to confirm competency for this unit. This is an integral part of the assessment of competency and should be read in conjunction with the Range Statement.
Critical Aspects of Evidence
Interpret work order and locate and apply relevant information
Identify and select fabric, matching pattern/nap/direction
Follow work instructions, operating procedures and inspection practices to:
prevent damage to goods, equipment or products
maintain required production output and product quality
minimise the risk of injury to self or others
As a minimum measure, mark out, cut and sew the following types of skirts, two of which are to be lined and one of which is to be fitted to a footstool or chair:
knife skirt
box skirt
mock box
inverted
Work effectively with others
Modify activities to cater for variations in workplace contexts and environment

Underpinning Knowledge
Work requirements including workplace standards and inspection procedures
Workflow in relation to the fabrication of skirts
Fabric types and characteristics, common faults and inspection procedures
Design features of the finished furnishing items in relation to laying out the pattern and cutting the fabric

Underpinning Skills
Information. Collect, organise and understand information related to work orders, basic plans, and safety procedures
Communication. Communicate ideas and information to enable confirmation of work requirements and specifications, coordination of work with work supervisor, other workers and customers, and the reporting of work outcomes and problems
Planning. Plan and organise activities including the preparation and layout of the work area and the obtaining of equipment and materials to avoid any back tracking, workflow interruptions or wastage
Teamwork. Work with others and in a team by recognising dependencies and using cooperative approaches to optimise workflow and productivity
Mathematical ideas and techniques. Use mathematical ideas and techniques to correctly complete measurements, calculate work requirements, optimise component and material sizes for economical cutting and assemble required materials
Solve problems. Use pre-checking and inspection techniques to plan work, avoiding reworking and wastage
Use of technology. Use the workplace technology related to the fabrication of skirts for upholstered furniture

Resource Implications
Tape measures, scissors, cutting table, fabric, sewing machines, work order/furniture to be fitted, workplace information including work procedures and/or equipment instructions.

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 may be in conjunction with assessment of other units of competency which together form a part of the job role.

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

Key Competency Levels
NB:These levels do not relate to the Australian Qualifications Framework. They relate to the seven areas of generic competency that underpin effective workplace practices.
There are three levels available:
Level 1 where work is within set conditions and process
Level 2 where the management or facilitation of conditions or process is exercised; and
Level 3 where the design and/or development of conditions or process is required
Communicating ideas and information
(1)

Collecting analysing and organising information
(2)

Planning and organising activities
(2)

Working with others and in teams
(2)

Using mathematical ideas and techniques
(2)

Solving problems
(2)

Using technology
(2)