Tailor Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield Tailor facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. What does 'pitch' refer to when fitting a suit sleeve? → The angle at which the sleeve hangs from the shoulder
2. What alteration addresses trousers that pull across the thigh with horizontal drag lines? → Letting out the side seams or inseams through the thigh area
3. When pressing a finished trouser crease, which combination produces the sharpest and most durable result? → A steam iron followed by pounding with a tailor's clapper
4. A trainer notices an apprentice forcing thick fabric through the machine. What instruction is best? → Use the correct needle size and let the feed dogs move the fabric
5. What is a tailor's clapper used for during the pressing process? → Pounding steamed fabric to flatten seams and sharpen creases
6. When teaching alterations, what should a trainer emphasize before cutting any garment? → Mark, pin, and confirm the adjustment with the client
7. What is a point presser primarily designed for in tailoring? → Pressing seams in pointed areas like collar tips and lapels
8. When threading a pattern instruction calls for 'easing' two seams together, it means: → Distributing a slightly longer edge into a shorter one without gathers or tucks
9. What is 'catch-stitching' used for in tailoring? → To hem and secure interfacing edges with a flexible hand stitch
10. What is a 'fell stitch' in hand tailoring? → A nearly invisible slip stitch used to attach linings and facings by hand
11. What hand-sewing stitch is best for an invisible hem on dress trousers? → Slip stitch
12. What is a 'gorge line' on a suit jacket? → The seam where the collar meets the lapel
13. When replacing a torn pocket bag in suit trousers, what fabric is typically used? → Lightweight pocketing or silesia fabric in a neutral color
14. What does 'forward pitch' of a jacket sleeve mean? → The sleeve is rotated slightly forward to match the natural resting position of the arm
15. What is a 'fitting toile'? → A test version of a garment made to check proportions and fit
16. What is the function of 'canvassing' in bespoke tailoring? → Using layers of horsehair canvas stitched to the front of a jacket to give shape and drape
17. Before beginning a project, it is essential to create a ___________. → Project plan
18. Which type of needle is best suited for sewing knit or stretch fabrics to avoid skipped stitches and holes? → Ballpoint or stretch needle
19. What is a tailor's ham primarily used for during pressing? → Pressing curved seams and shaped body areas
20. What does SCALE Measurement indicate when using a tailor square? → Measurement must be divided in half
21. Rosario Cangemi's goal in creating the tailor square is: → To reduce effort in pattern drafting and layout
22. Which tool is used to transfer fitting marks from a muslin toile to the pattern pieces? → Tracing wheel and carbon paper
23. When a moth hole appears in a wool jacket, what is the most invisible repair method for a small hole? → Reweaving new threads into the damaged area
24. Which fabric is known for its natural crimp that adds resilience and wrinkle resistance? → Wool
25. When training on iron temperature, what should a trainer have the apprentice check first? → The fabric's fiber content and care label
26. How much ease is typically added to the chest measurement for a well-fitted man's suit jacket? → 3 to 4 inches
27. A pressing or point presser/clapper is mainly used to: → Flatten seams and set creases in tailored garments
28. To make an opening at one end of the seam, you must offer a ________. → Fastener
29. What is the significance of offering a 'satisfaction guarantee' in a tailor business? → It builds client trust and reduces risk aversion for new customers considering custom work
30. What is a thimble used for? → Protecting the finger when pushing a needle