iti 11 April 2025
Cutting & Sewing CTS ITI Syllabus

ITI Cutting & Sewing Trade Syllabus 

The ITI "Cutting & Sewing" trade is a one-year vocational training program under the Craftsman Training Scheme (CTS), governed by the National Council for Vocational Training (NCVT). This course equips trainees with skills in measuring, cutting, stitching, and assembling garments using hand and machine sewing techniques. The syllabus integrates theoretical knowledge, practical sewing skills, and employability training to prepare students for roles such as tailors, garment makers, or sewing machine operators in the apparel industry, tailoring shops, or self-employment ventures.

Course Overview

  • Duration: 1 year (2 semesters, each 6 months)
  • NSQF Level: Level 4
  • Eligibility: Minimum 8th grade pass (or equivalent)
  • Objective: To train individuals in cutting and sewing garments accurately, ensuring quality construction and finishing, and meeting the demands of the garment-making industry.

Detailed Syllabus Breakdown

1. Trade Theory (Theoretical Knowledge)

Covers foundational concepts in cutting, sewing, and garment construction.

  • Semester 1
    • Introduction to Cutting & Sewing
      • Role and importance of cutting and sewing in the apparel industry.
      • Overview of garment construction process: from fabric to finished product.
      • Types of garments: casual, formal, traditional, children’s wear.
    • Tools and Equipment
      • Sewing tools: needles, threads, scissors, measuring tapes, pins.
      • Sewing machines: types (manual, electric), parts, and functions.
      • Cutting tools: shears, pattern papers, chalk, rulers.
    • Fabrics and Materials
      • Types of fabrics: cotton, silk, wool, synthetic, blended.
      • Fabric properties: texture, stretch, grain, shrinkage.
      • Threads, trims, and accessories: buttons, zippers, linings.
    • Measurement and Pattern Making
      • Taking body measurements accurately.
      • Introduction to drafting basic patterns: bodice, skirt, sleeve.
      • Pattern layout and fabric marking techniques.
    • Basic Sewing Techniques
      • Hand stitches: running stitch, backstitch, hemming, basting.
      • Machine stitches: straight, zigzag, overlock.
      • Seams and seam finishes: plain, French, flat-felled seams.
  • Semester 2
    • Advanced Sewing Techniques
      • Stitching collars, cuffs, pockets, and plackets.
      • Attaching fasteners: buttons, hooks, zippers.
      • Hemming techniques: rolled hem, blind hem, double hem.
    • Garment Construction
      • Construction of simple garments: frock, shirt, skirt, trousers.
      • Finishing techniques: pressing, trimming, underlining.
      • Alteration and repair of garments.
    • Cutting Techniques
      • Advanced cutting: bias cutting, layered cutting for multiple garments.
      • Fabric economy: minimizing wastage during cutting.
      • Handling special fabrics: stretch, sheer, heavy materials.
    • Quality Control
      • Checking garment fit and stitching quality.
      • Identifying and correcting common sewing defects.
      • Standards for garment finishing and presentation.
    • Safety and Maintenance
      • Safe handling of sewing machines and cutting tools.
      • Maintenance of sewing machines: oiling, cleaning, troubleshooting.
      • Workplace safety: preventing needle injuries, electrical hazards.

2. Trade Practical (Hands-On Skills)

Focuses on practical cutting and sewing skills.

  • Semester 1
    • Basic Skills
      • Practicing hand stitches: running, hemming, basting on fabric samples.
      • Operating a sewing machine: threading, adjusting tension, stitching straight lines.
      • Cutting fabric samples using scissors and shears.
    • Measurement and Pattern Making
      • Taking body measurements of individuals.
      • Drafting basic patterns: bodice, skirt, sleeve on paper.
      • Marking and cutting fabric based on patterns.
    • Simple Garment Construction
      • Stitching simple items: apron, pillow cover, tote bag.
      • Practicing seams: plain, zigzag, and basic finishes.
      • Attaching simple trims: lace, piping.
  • Semester 2
    • Advanced Sewing
      • Stitching collars, cuffs, and pockets on sample garments.
      • Attaching buttons, zippers, and hooks to fabric pieces.
      • Practicing advanced hems: rolled, blind hems.
    • Garment Construction
      • Constructing complete garments: frock, shirt, skirt, trousers.
      • Finishing garments: pressing, trimming loose threads.
      • Repairing torn garments and altering sizes.
    • Cutting Practice
      • Cutting fabric on bias and for layered garments.
      • Practicing fabric layout to minimize wastage.
      • Cutting special fabrics: stretch, sheer, or heavy materials.
    • Project Work
      • Designing and stitching a complete garment (e.g., dress or shirt).
      • Preparing a portfolio of stitched samples and garments.

3. Workshop Calculation and Science

Provides mathematical and scientific support for cutting and sewing tasks.

  • Semester 1
    • Basic arithmetic: calculating fabric yardage, thread requirements.
    • Measurements: converting inches to centimeters, fabric dimensions.
    • Geometry: understanding angles for pattern drafting (e.g., darts).
  • Semester 2
    • Fabric calculations: estimating material for multiple garments.
    • Scaling: adjusting patterns for different sizes.
    • Science: effects of heat (ironing) on fabrics, fabric shrinkage.

4. Engineering Drawing

Focuses on basic technical drawing for patterns.

  • Semester 1: Drawing basic patterns (bodice, sleeve) on paper.
  • Semester 2: Preparing detailed garment patterns with markings for seams and trims.

5. Employability Skills

Enhances job readiness and soft skills.

  • Semester 1
    • Communication skills: interacting with clients for measurements and preferences.
    • Time management: completing stitching tasks on schedule.
    • Basic IT skills: using computers for pattern design or documentation.
  • Semester 2
    • Entrepreneurship: starting a tailoring or garment-making business.
    • Resume writing and interview preparation for apparel jobs.
    • Customer service: understanding client needs and delivering quality work.

Assessment and Certification

  • Examinations: Conducted semester-wise with theoretical and practical components.
  • Certification: Successful candidates receive the National Trade Certificate (NTC) from NCVT, recognized nationally and internationally.
  • Evaluation: Based on cutting accuracy, stitching quality, theoretical knowledge, and project work.

Career Opportunities

  • Employment: Tailor, sewing machine operator, garment maker in apparel factories, boutiques, or tailoring shops.
  • Self-Employment: Starting a tailoring business, freelance garment stitching.
  • Further Studies: Diploma in Fashion Design, Garment Technology, or advanced tailoring courses.

Note

  • This syllabus aligns with the latest NCVT guidelines and may vary slightly based on institutional or state-specific requirements.
  • For the most current version, refer to the Directorate General of Training (DGT) website (dgt.gov.in) or consult your local ITI.

Trade Type

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