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This page contains information on my internship with McKinley Fashions. The information presented on this page is on role, duties, and the skills I acquired. 

With this opportunity I managed to develop a strong understanding of tailoring basics. Through my time in this job, I was able to expand my sewing abilities by strengthening my hand stitching capabilities with the application of various stitch versions. My tasks allowed me to increase my cutting efficiency, organizational skills, and documentation by assisting with the construction of two 3-piece suits and a velvet coat. Additionally, I learned how to create a variety of pocket versions used for different garments. Overall, this time taught me to create pants, vests, and jackets with a great deal of detail and productivity.

Role 

  • In the role of a tailor’s assistant, I aided with the construction of jackets, pants, and coats. With this opportunity I was able to further my design skills by following design instructions.

I assisted with the following:

  • Discussing design, alteration, or repair requirements with the lead tailor to ensure that the customer specifications were met.

  • Modifying garments according to the fit-on body, which includes tapering pant legs, extending the jacket’s center back, and adding padding.

  • Tracked the progress with a detailed account of the day-to-day activities.

  • Keep an efficient work pace to meet show datelines.

  • Accompany the lead tailor to fittings to help with measurements, edits, and set up.

Responsibilities 

  • Through my tasks I received valuable hands-on experience with tailoring basics. I developed a strong understanding of how to create garments based on specific measurements, make alterations when necessary, and strengthen my construction abilities.

  • Cutting pattern pieces on the correct grain

  • Pressing all materials to achieve an easier workflow

  • Creating pattern pieces for the vests and various pocketing

  • Applying hand sewing techniques when stitching pockets and garment linings

  • Independently sewing vests, sleeves, pants, pockets, and linings with immaculate seams

  • Organize the materials and clear workstations at the end of the shifts

Skills Acquired 

  • With this internship I gained new knowledge pertaining to details essential to menswear design and tailoring. I was able to construct pants and vest on my own through the instructions of the lead tailor. Additionally, I strengthened my hand sewing efficiency through the creation of various garments.

The skills I gained include

  • Thread selection based on specific projects

  • Sewing pockets on garments such as double pipping, welp, chest pocket, and flap variations.

  • Alternate garments to lengthen or shorten based on the client’s needs

  • Basting by hand to secure details in place

  • Hand stitch variation including tailor’s tack, running stitch, whipstitch, invisible stitch, and backstitch

  • Sew in a zipper with accompanying guard

  • Increased my cutting and machine sewing efficiency

  • Sewing details like waistband with banding, buttons with a shank, and vest belt with buckle

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