This Dressmaking Course will teach you how to sew your own clothes with a perfect fit while improving your sewing techniques. Whether you want to create a handmade wardrobe, alter and upcycle clothes, or refine your pattern-fitting skills, this course provides the expertise you need. Take a sustainable fashion approach by learning to repair, alter, and upcycle your existing wardrobe instead of buying new.
If you have not taken one of my foundation-level courses, please read the 'Who is this aimed at' section below to ensure you have the requisite sewing skills.
Tuesday 13/05/2025 - Tuesday 17/06/2025
Dressmaking Course description:
Learn how to understand commercial paper patterns and how to find your best size. If you've already done a bit of dressmaking, then you can improve your techniques to achieve a better finish. This course focuses on teaching technique so your clothes won't look 'Homemade', but 'Handmade'. No-one will believe you made them yourself. If you've already familiar with dressmaking techniques and commercial patterns and you'd like to learn how to alter clothes or patterns, then you can do this here too.
Please check here before booking as once purchased, tickets are non-refundable.
Who is this aimed at?
Dressmaking is about the garment construction techniques; not learning to sew from outset. You should already be able to use a sewing machine confidently, have had practice making at least two or three craft projects, and have an awareness of basic seams and hems and various edge-neatening methods. Practice at zips and buttonholes is also required (you don't want to be inserting a zip into your actual garment if it's the first time). If you do not, then I recommend you take one of the Foundation classes from Artisan Stitch first. These are also suitable as a refresher if you've got a bit rusty or try the Refresher Sewing Class first to brush up on your machine skills.
What will I learn?
I’ll coach you along the way in the following:
How to choose an appropriate pattern for your level of ability,
Taking measurements, cutting and fitting the pattern, understanding pattern markings and instructions
Altering the pattern for a perfect fit
Sewing tips and techniques to achieve a professional finish
Dressmaking Course arrangements
A small class size ensures you'll receive lots of individual attention. Students work on their own choice of project, and I tailor your tuition accordingly. You'll have help with sizing, fitting and any sewing techniques that are relevant to your chosen garment. If you have any questions about the level or format of the course, or have any specific learning requirements, then please get in touch to discuss this before you book. I'm always happy to chat about the suitability of your chosen pattern or recommend an alternative class/course.
You’ll need to bring your own pattern, fabric, matching thread, plus any interfacing, zips/buttons etc which are required to complete your project. You'll possibly also need calico (or curtain lining, sheeting etc) for making a mock-up of the pattern to check the fit (known as a 'toile'), and pattern-making paper. Please bring a basic sewing kit of fabric shears, paper scissors, small sharp embroidery scissors for trimming, tape measure (marked in cm), chalk pencils/fabric marking pens and pins. Check out my blog article 'Making Your Mark' for guidance on fabric marking pencils & pens.
Sewing machines are available in the studio if you need one or you can bring your own.
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