A loading apparatus for an automatic sewing machine which includes a setting device for setting thereon a lower workpiece, a shirring plate hinge to the setting device, and a work holder having an upper blade and a lower blade for holding the workpiece therebetween during the sewing operation. The shirring plate has forks for mounting thereon an upper workpiece. The upper blade has corresponding forks for engaging in the forks of the shirring plate. The setting device is movable relative to the work holder to transfer the workpiece to the work holder.