Below is the “Sequence of Bishop Learnings” which teachers in the Bishop Method of Clothing Construction followed in taking their workshops and working toward their certification as teachers.  This list was developed in August of 1969 and appears as revised in January 1973.

The first ten of these learnings must be taught in sequence.

BASIC LEARNINGS: (1) Grain perfection; (2) fabric selection; (3) straightening and processing fabric; (4) blocking and pressing; (5) unit construction; (6) staystitching; (7) clean finishing; (8) seams; (9) lockstitching; (10) understitching.  Suggested project: torn project.  Any project that can be made from straight edges of fabric, such as apron, tote bag, poncho.  Each course that follows would repeat these ten learnings and should include additional learnings from the following lists as needed.

ADDITIONAL BASIC LEARNINGS: Pattern selection; pattern size; flat measurements; pattern alterations; cutting; marking; directional staystitching; directional stitching; directional pressing; darts; hems, zipper application; facings; ease; grading; trimming; clipping; turn of cloth; seam finishes; staystitch plus (ease plus); taping waistline; skirt bands; joining bodice and skirt; waistline finished; shaped collar; 4-point closure (termination-point closure); set-in sleeves; sleeve finishes; pleats; belts; trims; gathering.  Suggested projects: Skirt, blouse, dress.  Optional projects: Shift, jumper, tunic, crop top.

INTERMEDIATE OR DRESSMAKING LEARNINGS: Shawl collar; shirt collar; patch pockets and flaps; cut-on sleeve; raglan sleeve; underlining; interfacing; cut-on facing; yokes; gussets; cuffs; sleeve openings; buttonholes.  Suggested projects: Shirt, dress, jacket, coat dress.

TAILORING I: Cut-on facing; bound buttonholes; pockets, modulated (others were slot, patch, in-seam); raglan or cut-on sleeve; convertible collar; lining; underlining (optional).  Suggested projects: Coat, suit, jacket, coat dress.

TAILORING II: Separate facing; regulation notch or shawl collar; two-piece set-in sleeve; tailored buttonhole; vent opening, sleeve or CB seam; pockets, regulation welt-flap; lining; underlining (optional).

Audrey Childress, my mother, had completed all of these teacher certifications and had earned the Certified Master Teacher Trainer certification.